Where It Comes From
Forms when chlorine/chloramine reacts with natural organic matter; regulated as part of the HAA5 group. Also manufactured for skin peels and etching [1][2].
How You Are Exposed
Mostly by drinking tap water; smaller amounts from showering, bathing, and swimming. Workers using TCAA may be exposed by skin contact or mists/splashes [1][2].
Why It Matters
Irritates and can burn skin/eyes at high levels; ingestion can cause stomach upset. Animal studies show liver effects and tumors; human cancer evidence is inadequate. EPA limits HAA5 to 60 µg/L [1][3][4].
Who Is at Risk
People with high-DBP tap water, heavy tap-water drinkers, infants/pregnant people, those with liver disease, and unprotected workers [1][2].
How to Lower Your Exposure
Check your water report (HAA5). Use NSF/ANSI-certified activated carbon or reverse osmosis filters for HAA reduction; keep showers brief/cool; use gloves/eye protection and good ventilation when handling TCAA [1][2].
References
- [1]U.S. EPA. National Primary Drinking Water Regulations: Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts (Stage 1/2 DBPR) and HAA5 MCL.
- [2]WHO. Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality, 4th ed. (Haloacetic acids, including trichloroacetic acid).
- [3]IARC Monographs, Vol. 106 (2014): Trichloroacetic acid (Group 3: not classifiable in humans).
- [4]NTP Technical Report 518 (2000): Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Trichloroacetic Acid (CAS 76-03-9).