In 2013, MDH developed a Health-Based Value, or guideline, of 0.4 micrograms of TCE per liter. This level of TCE is safe for all people exposed to TCE in drinking water at any time during their life, including pregnant women and their fetuses, infants, children and other sensitive people, including those with impaired immunity.
A level of 2 micrograms per liter of TCE in drinking water protects all people who are exposed for an entire lifetime from cancer. The increased risk for cancer is estimated to be 1 additional cancer case in 100,000 people, which is considered a negligible cancer risk. The level is also safe for healthy adults who are only exposed to TCE after age 18, and protects pregnant women and their developing fetuses from heart defects.