Which federal agency sets standards for maximum allowable concentrations of inorganic chemicals in drinking water?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for setting standards for maximum allowable concentrations of inorganic chemicals in drinking water. Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), the EPA establishes regulations that ensure the safety and quality of public drinking water supplies. This agency conducts research, sets limits on contaminants, and enforces compliance among water systems, aiming to protect public health and ensure that water is safe for consumption.

The other agencies listed have different roles: the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention primarily focuses on public health and disease prevention, not specifically on drinking water standards. The Food and Drug Administration regulates food safety and some aspects of bottled water, but not public water systems. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration ensures workplace safety, which does not encompass drinking water regulations. Therefore, the EPA is the key agency for governing inorganic chemicals in drinking water.