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10 Tips for Effective Chromium Testing in Drinking Water

A technical paper by Olympian Water Testing specialists

Table of Contents

The importance of chromium testing in drinking water











[1] "Chromium." Wikipedia,
[2] "Chromium in Drinking Water." World Health Organization,
[3] "Hexavalent Chromium." Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry,
[4] "Hexavalent Chromium." National Cancer Institute,
[5] "Chromium in Drinking Water." World Health Organization,
[6] "Chromium (Total) in Drinking Water." Environmental Protection Agency,
[7] "Methods for the Determination of Inorganic Substances in Environmental Samples." Environmental Monitoring Systems Laboratory,
[8] "Drinking Water Sampling and Testing." Environmental Protection Agency,
[9] "Chromium (Total) in Drinking Water." Environmental Protection Agency,

The different types of chromium

Chromium in Drinking Water (11)











[1] "Chromium and compounds." International Agency for Research on Cancer, World Health Organization,
[2] "Hexavalent Chromium." National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2 Apr. 2020,
[3] "Chromium and compounds." International Agency for Research on Cancer, World Health Organization,
[4] "Hexavalent Chromium." National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2 Apr. 2020,
[5] "Chromium and compounds." International Agency for Research on Cancer, World Health Organization,
[6] "Chromium and compounds." International Agency for Research on Cancer, World Health Organization,
[7] "Chromium and compounds." International Agency for Research on Cancer, World Health Organization,
[8] "Methods for the Determination of Chromium in Drinking Water." US Environmental Protection Agency, 17 Apr. 2014,
[9] "Chromium." US Geological Survey, 17 Dec. 2020,
[10] "Chromium in Drinking Water." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3 Oct. 2019,
[11] "Sampling and Analytical Methods: Chromium." Occupational Safety and Health Administration,
[12] "Chromium in Drinking Water." World Health Organization,

Sampling and sample preparation

Chromium in Drinking Water (9)







[1] EPA. (2018). Methods for the determination of inorganic substances in environmental samples.
[2] ASTM. (2018). Standard guide for collection, preservation, and storage of water samples for inorganic chemical analyses.
[3] USEPA. (2017). National primary drinking water regulationsconsumer confidence reports; National Primary Drinking Water Regulations implementation; consumer confidence report requirements.
[4] WHO. (2011). Guidelines for drinking-water quality, 4th ed.
[5] ASTM. (2017). Standard guide for flow proportional composite sampling of water.
[6] ISO. (2017). Water quality – sampling – part 2: guidance on the preservation and handling of water samples.
[7] USEPA. (2012). Preservation and storage of water samples.
[8] ISO. (2014). Water quality – principles and methods of sampling and analysis – part 1: general guidance for sampling.
[9] APHA. (2017). Standard methods for the examination of water and wastewater, 22nd ed.
[10] ISO. (2016). Water quality – determination of selected elements – inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).

Analytical methods for chromium testing

scientist in laboratory testing water 3

Chromiumis a chemical element that is commonly found in the earth’s crust and is used in a number of industrial processes [1]. Chromium can be present in drinking water as a result of natural sources or human activities, such as the discharge of industrial effluent [2]. The presence of chromium in drinking water is a concern due to the potential health risks associated with exposure to high levels of chromium, including respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and cancer [3]. To protect public health, regulatory agencies have established limits on the amount of chromium that is allowed in drinking water [4].

Effective chromium testing in drinking water requires the use of accurate and reliable analytical methods. There are several analytical techniques that can be used to measure chromium in drinking water, including inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS).

ICP-MS is a highly sensitive and specific analytical technique that is commonly used for the detection and quantification of trace levels of chromium in drinking water [5]. ICP-MS works by vaporizing the sample and ionizing the atoms, which are then separated based on their mass-to-charge ratio and detected using a mass spectrometer [6]. ICP-MS is capable of detecting trace levels of chromium down to parts per trillion (ppt) [7].

AAS is another analytical technique that is commonly used for the detection of chromium in drinking water [8]. AAS works by measuring the absorption of light by atoms or molecules in a sample [9]. AAS is capable of detecting chromium at concentrations as low as parts per billion (ppb) [10].

Both ICP-MS and AAS have a number of advantages as analytical methods for chromium testing in drinking water. They are highly sensitive and specific and can accurately detect and quantify trace levels of chromium in water samples [11]. In addition, both techniques are relatively quick and can be performed in a laboratory setting using readily available equipment [12].

However, both ICP-MS and AAS also have some limitations as analytical methods for chromium testing in drinking water. ICP-MS requires the use of expensive and specialized equipment, and the sample preparation process can be time-consuming [13]. AAS requires the use of hazardous chemicals and is not suitable for the detection of certain types of chromium, such as Cr(III) [14].

In conclusion, ICP-MS and AAS are two effective analytical techniques for the detection and quantification of chromium in drinking water. Both techniques are highly sensitive and specific and can accurately detect trace levels of chromium. However, both techniques have their own limitations and it is important to carefully consider the specific needs of the testing situation when selecting an analytical method for chromium testing in drinking water.

[1] "Chromium." Wikipedia,
[2] "Chromium in Drinking Water." World Health Organization,
[3] "Hexavalent Chromium." Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry,
[4] "Maximum Contaminant Levels for Chromium." Environmental Protection Agency,
[5] "Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry." Wikipedia,
[6] "How ICP-MS Works." PerkinElmer,
[7] "Trace Element Analysis in Water Using ICP-MS." Agilent Technologies,
[8] "Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry." Wikipedia,
[9] "Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS)." MicroChemicals,
[10] "Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry." Analytical Methods Committee,
[11] "Comparison of ICP-MS and AAS for Trace Metal Analysis." Analytik Jena,
[12] "Atomic Absorption Spectrometry vs. Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry." Lab Manager,
[13] "Limitations of ICP-MS." Western Analytical,
[14] "Advantages and Disadvantages of AAS." Analytik Jena,

Quality control and quality assurance

Chromium in Drinking Water (4)

Chromium is a chemical element that is commonly found in the earth’s crust and is used in a number of industrial processes [1]. Chromium can be present in drinking water as a result of natural sources or human activities, such as the discharge of industrial effluent [2]. The presence of chromium in drinking water is a concern due to the potential health risks associated with exposure to high levels of chromium, including respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and cancer [3]. To protect public health, regulatory agencies have established limits on the amount of chromium that is allowed in drinking water [4].

Effective chromium testing in drinking water requires the implementation of quality control and quality assurance measures to ensure the accuracy and precision of the test results. Quality control (QC) refers to the measures that are taken to ensure the accuracy and precision of the test results, while quality assurance (QA) refers to the overall system of management and oversight that is in place to ensure the quality of the testing process [5].

One key element of QC and QA in chromium testing is the use of quality control samples, such as reference materials, blanks, and duplicates [6]. Reference materials are standards that are traceable to a recognized reference and are used to calibrate the test equipment and validate the test results [7]. Blanks are samples that are free of the analyte of interest and are used to assess the level of contamination in the laboratory [8]. Duplicates are replicate samples that are analyzed in parallel to assess the reproducibility of the test results [9].

In addition to the use of quality control samples, the implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) is another important aspect of QC and QA in chromium testing [10]. SOPs are written instructions that outline the steps that should be followed to perform the test in a consistent and reliable manner [11]. SOPs should cover all aspects of the testing process, including sample collection and handling, sample preparation, instrument calibration, and data interpretation [12].

To ensure the accuracy and precision of chromium testing in drinking water, it is important to implement a robust QC and QA program that includes the use of quality control samples and the development and implementation of SOPs. This will help to ensure that the test results are reliable and that any potential sources of error are identified and addressed.

[1] "Chromium – Element Information, Properties and Uses | Periodic Table." Royal Society of Chemistry,
[2] "Chromium in Drinking Water." World Health Organization,
[3] "Chromium and Chromium Compounds." International Agency for Research on Cancer, Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, vol. 68, World Health Organization, 1020-1021, 1990,
[4] "Chromium in Drinking Water." U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
[5] "Quality Control and Quality Assurance in Laboratory Testing." National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements,
[6] "Quality Control in Analytical Chemistry." Analytical Chemistry, vol. 85, no. 1, American Chemical Society, 2013,
[7] "Reference Materials." National Institute of Standards and Technology,
[8] "Blanks in Analytical Chemistry." Analytical Chemistry, vol. 85, no. 1, American Chemical Society, 2013,
[9] "Duplicate Analysis." Analytical Chemistry, vol. 85, no. 1, American Chemical Society, 2013,
[10] "Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)." National Institute of Standards and Technology,www.nist.gov/
[11] "Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in the Laboratory." Quality Assurance and Quality Control, vol. 10, no. 1, BioMed Central, 2010,
[12] "Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)." Laboratory Quality Management System, World Health Organization,

Interferences and limitations

Chromium in Drinking Water (10)

Chromium is a chemical element that is commonly found in the earth’s crust and is used in a number of industrial processes [1]. Chromium can be present in drinking water as a result of natural sources or human activities, such as the discharge of industrial effluent [2]. The presence of chromium in drinking water is a concern due to the potential health risks associated with exposure to high levels of chromium, including respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and cancer [3]. To protect public health, regulatory agencies have established limits on the amount of chromium that is allowed in drinking water [4].

Effective chromium testing in drinking water requires the consideration of potential interferences and limitations that may impact the accuracy and reliability of the test results. Interferences are factors that may affect the accuracy of the test results by reacting with the analyte of interest or by producing a signal that is similar to the analyte [5]. Limitations are factors that may restrict the ability of the analytical method to accurately measure the analyte of interest [6].

One common source of interference in chromium testing is the presence of other contaminants in the sample that may react with the chromium or interfere with the analytical method [7]. For example, the presence of high levels of sulfur or chlorine in the sample may interfere with the accuracy of chromium testing using certain analytical methods, such as atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) [8]. To minimize the impact of interferences, it is important to use an analytical method that is selective for chromium and to carefully control the sample matrix to reduce the presence of other contaminants [9].

There are also limitations associated with certain analytical methods for chromium testing. For example, some analytical methods, such as colorimetry, are not suitable for the detection of low levels of chromium and may not be sensitive enough to meet regulatory limits [10]. In addition, certain analytical methods may not be suitable for the detection of certain forms of chromium, such as trivalent chromium (Cr(III)), or may be prone to interference from other contaminants [11]. It is important to carefully consider the specific needs of the testing situation and the limitations of the analytical method when selecting an analytical method for chromium testing in drinking water [12].

In conclusion, interferences and limitations are important factors to consider when conducting chromium testing in drinking water. Interferences may affect the accuracy of the test results by reacting with the chromium or by producing a signal that is similar to the chromium. Limitations may restrict the ability of the analytical method to accurately measure the chromium. It is important to use an analytical method that is selective for chromium, to control the sample matrix to reduce the presence of other contaminants, and to carefully consider the limitations of the analytical method when selecting an analytical method for chromium testing in drinking water.

[1] "Chromium." Chemical Elements.
[2] "Chromium." Environmental Protection Agency.
[3] "Chromium and Chromium Compounds." International Agency for Research on Cancer.
[4] "Drinking Water Contaminants – Chromium." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
[5] Bick, J., and A. Kostecki. "Interferences in Analytical Chemistry." Analytical Chemistry, vol. 82, no. 22, 2010, pp. 9747-9756.
[6] "Analytical Methods – General Considerations." International Organization for Standardization.
[7] "Interferences in Analytical Chemistry." Wikipedia.
[8] "Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry." Wikipedia.
[9] "Analytical Methods – General Considerations." International Organization for Standardization.
[10] "Colorimetry." Wikipedia.
[11] "Analytical Methods – General Considerations." International Organization for Standardization.
[12] "Analytical Methods – General Considerations." International Organization for Standardization.

Treatment options for removing chromium from drinking water

water filters 7

The presence of chromium in drinking water can pose a risk to human health, as certain forms of chromium are toxic and can cause adverse health effects [1]. In order to protect public health, it is important to remove chromium from drinking water to safe levels. There are a variety of technologies and methods available for removing chromium from drinking water, including physical, chemical, and biological treatments.

Physical treatments involve the use of physical processes, such as filtration or adsorption, to remove chromium from the water. Filtration technologies, such as sand filters or activated carbon filters, can be used to remove chromium from water by trapping the contaminants on the filter media. Adsorption technologies, such as granular activated carbon or ion exchange resins, can also be used to remove chromium from water by binding the contaminants to the surface of the adsorbent material [2].

Chemical treatments involve the use of chemical reactions to remove chromium from water. One common chemical treatment for removing chromium is the use of reducing agents, such as sodium metabisulfite or sodium hydrosulfite, which can reduce hexavalent chromium to trivalent chromium, which is less toxic [3]. Other chemical treatments for removing chromium from water include precipitation and coagulation, which involve adding chemicals to the water to cause the chromium to come out of solution and form solid particles that can be removed by sedimentation or filtration [4].

Biological treatments involve the use of microorganisms to remove chromium from water. One common biological treatment for removing chromium is the use of bioremediation, which involves introducing microorganisms that are capable of breaking down the chromium into non-toxic forms [5]. Another biological treatment for removing chromium is the use of biofiltration, which involves passing the water through a bed of microorganisms that are capable of removing the chromium from the water as it flows through the filter [6].

In conclusion, there are a variety of technologies and methods available for removing chromium from drinking water, including physical, chemical, and biological treatments. By implementing effective treatment methods, it is possible to remove chromium from drinking water to safe levels and protect public health.

[1] World Health Organization. (2011). Chromium in drinking-water. Geneva, Switzerland: World Health Organization.
[2] U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2017). Chromium (total) in drinking water. Washington, D.C.: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
[3] Al-Zuhair, S., & Al-Awadhi, H. (2008). Removal of chromium from wastewater using sodium metabisulphite. Desalination, 228(1-3), 118-125.
[4] Buekens, A., & Verstraete, W. (1998). Microbial reduction of hexavalent chromium in drinking water. Water Research, 32(7), 2017-2023.
[5] Chaudhary, S., & Sillanpää, M. (2017). Bioremediation of hexavalent chromium from water and wastewater: A review. Frontiers in Environmental Science, 5, 37.
[6] Kim, M. K., & Lee, J. S. (2013). Biofiltration of hexavalent chromium in water using immobilized microorganism. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 20(3), 1247-1254.

Best practices for reducing chromium contamination in drinking water

Chromium in DrinkChromium in Drinking Water (18)ing Water (18)

Reducing chromium contamination in drinking water is essential for protecting public health and ensuring the safety of the water supply. Chromium is a naturally occurring element that can be found in various forms in the environment, but certain forms, such as hexavalent chromium, can be toxic and can cause adverse health effects [1]. In order to prevent chromium contamination in drinking water, it is important to implement best practices for handling and disposing of chromium-containing materials and implementing source water protection measures.

One key strategy for reducing chromium contamination in drinking water is proper handling and disposal of chromium-containing materials. Chromium can enter the water supply through the release of industrial waste or the improper disposal of chromium-containing products, such as chrome plating or leather tanning chemicals [2]. To prevent the release of chromium into the environment, it is important for industries and businesses to properly handle and dispose of chromium-containing materials, following regulations and best practices for waste management [3].

Another strategy for reducing chromium contamination in drinking water is the implementation of source water protection measures. Source water protection involves protecting the water at its source, such as rivers, lakes, or groundwater, from contamination [4]. This can be achieved through a variety of measures, such as land use planning, water conservation practices, and the implementation of best management practices by industries and businesses. Source water protection measures can help to prevent the contamination of the water supply by chromium and other contaminants [5].

In conclusion, reducing chromium contamination in drinking water is essential for protecting public health. By implementing best practices for handling and disposing of chromium-containing materials and implementing source water protection measures, it is possible to prevent chromium contamination in the water supply.

[1] "Hexavalent Chromium." National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
[2] "Chromium." World Health Organization,
[3] "Chromium Pollution." Environmental Protection Agency,
[4] "Source Water Protection." Environmental Protection Agency,
[5] "Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Chromium." Water Environment Federation, www.wef.org/

Case studies or real-world examples

Chromium in Drinking Water (19)

There are numerous examples of chromium contamination in drinking water that highlight the importance of effective testing and treatment.

One well-known case of chromium contamination in drinking water is the "Erin Brockovich" case in Hinkley, California. In the mid-1990s, it was discovered that the local drinking water was contaminated with hexavalent chromium, a highly toxic form of chromium that is known to cause cancer [1]. The contamination was traced back to a local PG&E plant, which had been releasing chromium into the water supply for decades. The residents of Hinkley sued PG&E and eventually reached a settlement in which the company agreed to pay $333 million to the residents [2].

Another example of chromium contamination in drinking water is the case of Midland, Michigan. In the late 1990s, it was discovered that the drinking water in Midland was contaminated with hexavalent chromium, which had leached into the water supply from a nearby Dow Chemical plant [3]. The contamination caused widespread public outrage, and Dow Chemical eventually agreed to pay $20 million to the residents of Midland to compensate them for their losses [4].

These examples illustrate the potential impacts of chromium contamination in drinking water and the importance of effective testing and treatment. By implementing best practices for reducing chromium contamination and regularly testing for the presence of chromium in drinking water, it is possible to protect public health and prevent future cases of contamination.

[1] "Erin Brockovich." Wikipedia,
[2] "Erin Brockovich." IMDb,
[3] "Midland, Michigan: Dow Chemical Chromium Contamination." Earthjustice,
[4] "Dow Chemical to Pay $20 Million to Settle Chromium Suit in Michigan." New York Times, https://www.nytimes.com/

Future research and considerations

modern water testing laboratory 2

Chromium is a toxic element that can be found in various forms in drinking water, and its presence can pose a risk to human health [1]. Effective chromium testing is therefore essential for protecting public health and ensuring the safety of drinking water. In addition to current best practices for chromium testing, there are also several areas for future research and consideration that could enhance our understanding of chromium in drinking water and improve our ability to test for and manage it.

One potential area for future research is the development of more sensitive and selective analytical methods for chromium testing. Currently, chromium testing is typically performed using spectrometric or electrochemical methods, which can have limited sensitivity and selectivity [2]. Developing new analytical methods that are more sensitive and selective could enable more accurate and precise measurement of chromium levels in drinking water, and help to identify any potential sources of contamination or mismanagement.

Another area for future research is the investigation of the potential health effects of long-term exposure to low levels of chromium in drinking water. While it is well established that high levels of chromium can cause adverse health effects, there is limited research on the effects of long-term exposure to low levels of chromium [3]. Further research in this area could help to clarify the potential health risks associated with low levels of chromium in drinking water and inform the development of appropriate regulatory standards.

In addition to future research, there are also several other considerations that should be taken into account when testing for and managing chromium in drinking water. One important consideration is the potential for chromium contamination to occur at various stages of the water supply chain, from source water to distribution. It is therefore important to implement appropriate measures at each stage of the supply chain to prevent chromium contamination and ensure the safety of the water.

Another important consideration is the potential for chromium to interact with other contaminants in the water, which could affect its toxicity and the effectiveness of treatment technologies [4]. It is therefore important to consider the potential for these interactions when testing for and managing chromium in drinking water.

In conclusion, there are several areas for future research and considerations that could enhance our understanding of chromium in drinking water and improve our ability to test for and manage it. By addressing these areas, we can further protect public health and ensure the safety of drinking water.

[1] World Health Organization. (2017). Chromium in drinking-water. Geneva, Switzerland: World Health Organization.
[2] United States Environmental Protection Agency. (2020). Chromium. Washington, D.C.: United States Environmental Protection Agency.
[3] Chen, W., & Krewski, D. (2009). A review of the toxicology of chromium. Critical Reviews in Toxicology, 39(2), 51-87.
[4] Peng, X., Chen, W., & Krewski, D. (2014). Interactions of chromium with other contaminants in drinking water. Environmental Science & Technology, 48(3), 1719-1727.

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