Emergency Do Not Consume/do Not Use concentrations for potassium permanganate in drinking water
C C Willhite1, V S Bhat, G L Ball
1NSF International, Dixboro Road, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48105, USA. calvinwillhite@hotmail.com
Human & Experimental Toxicology
|August 16, 2012
Summary
Potassium permanganate (KMnO(4)) in drinking water can cause harm. A safe
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Municipal drinking water safety is a growing concern due to potential contamination.
- Potassium permanganate (KMnO(4)) is a common water treatment chemical used for iron and manganese control.
- Both KMnO(4) and its manganese (Mn) byproducts pose toxicity risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish emergency response guidelines for accidental or intentional drinking water contamination with KMnO(4).
- To determine safe concentration limits for public notification and emergency response.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical experience and toxicity data for KMnO(4) and manganese.
- Analysis of adverse effects from ingestion and dermal/ocular contact.
- Calculation of 'Do Not Consume' and 'Do Not Use' concentration limits.
Main Results:
- A 'Do Not Consume' concentration of 7 mg/L KMnO(4) (2 mg Mn/L) is recommended based on gastrointestinal distress and toxicity.
- A 'Do Not Use' concentration of 30 mg Mn/L for skin contact is recommended due to irritation.
- Higher concentrations of KMnO(4) can cause severe health effects including tissue damage and respiratory arrest.
Conclusions:
- Recommended emergency limits for KMnO(4) in drinking water are 7 mg/L for consumption and 30 mg Mn/L for skin contact.
- These guidelines are crucial for public notification during water contamination events.
- Further research is needed to establish ocular reference values.
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