Detected Radium

Radium in Laurys Station, PA Drinking Water

Radium data for Laurys Station, Pennsylvania · 40,000 residents · 1 ZIP code

Across Laurys Station, Pennsylvania, federal monitoring data has captured Radium in water samples at detectable concentrations in the most recent available reporting cycle.

8.26 pCi/L
Max Level Detected
8.26 pCi/L
Average Level
5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228)
EPA MCL
High
Health Risk
Reverse Osmosis or Ion Exchange
Best Filter Method

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14

Radium in Laurys Station Tap Water

Radium has been detected in Laurys Station, Pennsylvania drinking water at a maximum level of 8.26 pCi/L1.65x the EPA MCL.

This analysis covers 40,000 residents across 1 ZIP code in Laurys Station.

Laurys Station's overall water quality grade is D (40/100).

Is Radium in Laurys Station Water Safe?

Radium was detected in Laurys Station water but currently falls within EPA limits. However, some health organizations argue the EPA MCL may not be protective enough.

If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis or ion exchange filter can reduce radium levels further.

Radium Levels by ZIP Code

ZIP Code Radium Level EPA Limit Status
18059 8.26 pCi/L 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) Exceeds limit

Average radium level across Laurys Station: 8.26 pCi/L

Health Effects of Radium

  • Increased risk of bone cancer (radium accumulates in bones)
  • The body treats radium like calcium, storing it in bones
  • Lifetime cancer risk of ~1 in 10,000 at 5 pCi/L
  • No safe threshold for radioactive contamination

Health risk severity: High. Governed by the Radionuclides Rule.

How Radium Gets Into Drinking Water

  • Natural radioactive decay in underground rock formations
  • Groundwater sources (especially deep wells)
  • Mining and industrial waste
  • Higher in regions with specific geology (Midwest, parts of South)

What to Do About Radium in Laurys Station Water

  1. Reverse osmosis (NSF 58 certified) removes 90%+ of radium
  2. Ion exchange (water softeners) can reduce radium
  3. Point-of-use RO at kitchen tap is most cost-effective
  4. GAC filters alone are NOT effective for radium

Look for filters certified under NSF 58 for radium removal.

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