Table of Contents
What are THMs?
The process of disinfecting natural water sources leads to numerous disinfection by-products when the disinfectant interacts with organic material (like dirt, twigs, leaves etc.). Trihalomethanes, or THMs, are toxic by-product compounds that can form when chlorine or other disinfectants react with organic matter in water.
Earlier this year, the European Court of Justice ruled that Ireland failed to protect drinking water from THMs, meaning water for nearly 240,000 people across the State contained THMs above EU safety levels. As a result of these concerns, testing for THMs is crucial. The THMs test is a revolutionary solution that ensures accurate and efficient testing for potentially carcinogenic materials in your water.
How Do THMs Get Into Water?
There are 4 main factors that determine whether THMs are contaminating your water:
- Organic matter: Water treatment plants may not have been able to remove all organic material from the water
- Chlorine levels: High concentrations of chlorine in the water make it more likely THMs to develop.
- Time to reach your tap: The longer it takes for your water to travel the more likely THMs will form.
- Time of year: Autumn is the most common time of year when dead and decaying organic matter can contaminate water sources.
Health Risks of THM Exposure
Exposure to elevated levels of these compounds has been associated with health issues. Short-term exposure to THMs can cause irritation of the skin, eyes & lungs. A recent paper has shown that THMs can damage our body’s cells and DNA. THMs can even cause mutations in our DNA. As a result, long-term exposure to these chemicals has been associated with increased risk of bladder, colon & rectum cancers.
Based on these discoveries about the dangers of THMs, the need for water testing to protect against contamination has become clear.
Southern Scientific’s Test for THMs
At Southern Scientific we can test your water using an easy-to-follow 3 step guide….
- Simple – order the test, and we will post your testing kit.
- Clear – follow the instructions, collect the sample and post it back to us the same day for next-day delivery.
- Accurate – easy-to-understand results will be sent to you by email within 10 days.
Once the samples have been collected, our advanced laboratory techniques can detect even the smallest levels of THMs in your water supply. We offer a clear understanding of your results so that you can make informed decisions about your water. You will receive a report of your results via email and consultancy on how to treat it if necessary.
Why Trust Us For Water Testing?
Our team of experienced technicians employs the latest techniques to collect water samples from your tap. Our THM test is ISO-17025 accredited to ensure your water complies with national standards.
At Southern Scientific, we are committed to providing you with the highest accuracy in every THMs analysis. With our expertise and experience, we guarantee the utmost confidence in the safety and quality of your drinking water.
