Main contaminants in drinking water from a well | Gouvernement du Québec

Escherichia coli (E. coli), fecal coliforms or enterococci

Escherichia coli (E. coli), fecal coliforms or enterococci in well water

Uranium

Uranium is a radioactive element that can contaminate your well water.

Barium

Barium is a chemical element that occurs naturally in the soil, often in low concentrations. It can dissolve in groundwater and contaminate it.

Arsenic

Arsenic is a chemical element that occurs naturally in the soil. It can dissolve in groundwater and contaminate it.

Nitrates and nitrites

In Quebec, the standard for the concentration not to be exceeded for nitrates/nitrites in drinking water is 10 mg/L.

Iron

Iron is a naturally occurring chemical element in water.

Fluoride

Fluorides are mineral salts that occur naturally in water.

Manganese

Manganese is naturally present in drinking water.

Last update: March 28, 2023