Testing results from August show that water in the Reed Road area has exceeded the standard or maximum contaminant level for HAA5, the Dartmouth Water Department reported Monday, Sept. 13. 

This does not require residents to boil water or take any other corrective actions, the department reported. If you have a severely compromised immune system, have an infant, are pregnant, or are elderly, you may be at increased risk and should seek advice from your health care providers about drinking this water, the department reports.

Haloacetic acids (HAA) are a group of disinfection byproducts that form when chlorine compounds used to disinfect water react with other naturally-occurring chemicals in the water.

The level of HAA5 averaged at the system’s Reed Road location for August was 72 parts per billion. The standard for HAA5 is 60 parts per billion.

Although the sample results improved for this site it was not enough to reduce the 12-month average, the department reported.

Daily flushing is scheduled for this location. The town has been working on a comprehensive plan to address HAA5 concerns for several years, the department reports.  

Ongoing distribution improvements have been underway throughout the town. Currently water mixing systems are being used in four water storage tanks. 

Haloacetic acids have been found in the town’s water supply in levels just above state standards intermittently since 2013. 

People who drink water containing haloacetic acids in excess of the MCL over many years may have an increased risk of getting cancer, according to information posted by the department.

For more information, visit www.town.dartmouth.ma.us/home/news/important-information-about-your-drin....