If you rely on a public water system in West Richland, Washington, Radium is a contaminant your utility has been required to test for — and EPA records show it has been detected at measurable levels, making it worth understanding as part of your tap water's detection record.

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

Radium in West Richland Tap Water

Radium has been detected in West Richland, Washington drinking water at a maximum level of 9.5 pCi/L — 1.9x the EPA MCL.

This analysis covers 19,153 residents across 1 ZIP code in West Richland.

West Richland's overall water quality grade is B (72/100).

Is Radium in West Richland Water Safe?

Radium was detected in West Richland 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

Average radium level across West Richland: 9.5 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 West Richland 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.

Related

• Radium — National Overview
• Radium in Washington
• Washington Water Quality
• West Richland Water Quality
• Check Your ZIP Code