Algal Toxins in Drinking Water: Standards and Guidelines

Key Takeaways Cyanobacteria can, but do not always, produce toxins that may be found in algal blooms, which can pose a public health threat even at low levels in water. The US Environmental Protection Agency, the World Health Organization, and Health Canada have taken varying approaches to establishing guidances for monitoring and managing algal toxins. Although based on different assumptions and interpretations, with somewhat different outcomes, all of the assessments provide appropriate safeguards for drinking water, with different water system impacts and at different treatment costs.