Mercury is a naturally occurring element found in air, water, and soil. It can enter water sources through industrial discharge, landfill runoff, and natural deposits. Drinking water contaminated with mercury can lead to numerous health and environmental concerns, affecting the nervous system, kidneys, and immune system. In this article we will explore the risks of mercury in drinking water, the importance of monitoring mercury levels, and how we offer solutions that assist in ensuring water safety.
Mercury contamination
Mercury in water primarily exists in two forms: inorganic mercury and methylmercury, with methylmercury being the more toxic form, easily absorbed by the human body. The primary source of methylmercury in water sources is the methylation of inorganic mercury by microorganisms in sediments. This process can be increased by factors such as water pollution and environmental changes.
Health risks of mercury exposure
The health implications can be very serious, especially for vulnerable populations such as pregnant women, infants, and children. Mercury affects the central and peripheral nervous system, leading to developmental delays in children and cognitive impairments in adults. Other potential health effects include damage to the kidneys and immune system, increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, impairment of peripheral vision and coordination.
Mercury guidelines and regulations
Recognising the dangers of mercury, regulatory agencies worldwide have established standards for mercury levels in drinking water. For instance, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the United States have set guidelines and regulations to limit mercury concentrations in water, ensuring public health protection.
Therefore effective monitoring of mercury levels in drinking water is essential for protecting public health and complying with regulatory standards. This is where we can support your business practices, offering cutting-edge analytical instruments designed for precise and reliable mercury analysis.
Aemas’s mercury analyzers
Aemas offers cutting-edge Teledyne Leeman labs mercury analyzers tailored for precise and accurate mercury detection in the environment. These analyzers excel in delivering results that are not only accurate but also reproducible and fast. The technology behind these analyzers is designed to detect mercury at very low levels, ensuring compliance with stringent environmental and health regulations. Aemas offers currently two mercury analyzers, the Teledyne Leeman Labs M-7600 Cold Vapor Atomic Absorption (CVAA) and the M-8000 Cold Vapor Atomic Fluorescence (CVAF), both for the analysis of liquid and/or digested samples.
Our instruments are designed to meet the diverse needs of water quality professionals, from municipal water suppliers to environmental researchers. Key features of our mercury analyzers include:
- Highly sensitive and accurate for low-level mercury detection;
- Fast and efficient analysis, enabling timely responses to contamination;
- Compliance with international standards, ensuring regulatory adherence;
- User-friendly operation, making advanced testing accessible to all.
Why choose Aemas for mercury analyzers?
Aemas is not just a supplier of equipment; it’s a guardian of public health and environmental integrity, providing the tools necessary for industries to thrive responsibly. Choosing our mercury analyzers means partnering with analytical instrumentation, committed to excellence and customer satisfaction. Our expertise and innovative solutions empower clients to monitor and manage mercury in drinking water effectively, safeguarding public health and the environment. We offer access to advanced technology for precise mercury detection, comprehensive support and training, ensuring optimal use of our analyzers and tailored solutions that meet your specific monitoring needs.
Mercury in water is a pressing environmental and public health issue. When using our mercury analyzers, organisations can confidently address the challenges of mercury contamination, ensuring safe drinking water for communities and companies worldwide. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and customer service makes us your partner in the pursuit of water purity and safety.
Invest in a safer, healthier future. Contact us to learn more about our mercury analyzers and how we can assist you in ensuring the safety of your drinking water. Curious about the effects of mercury in the environment? Read this article.