Why Is This Important?

Gross Alpha is a test that is performed to measure the overall radioactivity in drinking water. Naturally occurring radioactive elements emit alpha particles as they decay. Alpha radiation exists in soil, air, and water. Sampling of public and private wells that draw water from southern New Jersey's Cohansey aquifer has shown elevated levels of naturally occurring radioactivity. Exposure to radium over a long period of time is believed to increase one's lifetime risk of developing certain types of cancer.

Definition

Percent of tested private wells with gross alpha exceeding the maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 15 picoCuries per liter (pCi/l)

Data Source

How the Measure is Calculated

• Numerator:

  Number of tested private wells with gross alpha concentration exceeding the maximum contaminant level of 15 pCi/l in a specified period of time

• Denominator:

  Number of tested private wells in a specified period of time

Related Risk Factors Indicators:

• Arsenic in Private Wells
• Nitrate in Private Wells
• Fecal Coliform or E. coli in Private Wells
• Mercury in Private Wells
• Private Well Usage: Self-Reported as Main Source of Drinking Water

Health Topic Pages Related to: Gross Alpha in Private Wells

• Water Quality