An investigation into the occurrence and concentration of Trihalomethanes and their precursors in South African drinking waters

Abstract

Statements encountered from various epidemiological authorities emphasise that between seventy and ninety per cent of human cancer is caused by contact with chemical substances and that all efforts be made to limit these compounds in the environment. Drinking-water supplies are especially susceptible to contamination by such substances when potable water supplies are disinfected with chlorine. The chemical by-products formed are the reaction products produced when chlorine reacts with specific organic molecules in the water to form trihalomethane (THM) compounds, the most predominant species being chloroform. Although THM's are regarded as presumptive carcinogens many countries have taken precautions to limit their occurrence by law or by setting guidelines.

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