WaterVerge
Cobalt Contamination

Cobalt in Ohio Drinking Water

Ranked by max cobalt detected (µg/L) · UCMR 3 data (2013–2015) · Data from EPA SDWIS & UCMR

0
Cities Tested
0
Detected
0%
% Detected
N/A µg/L
State Avg
▼ 100% vs national
vs National
398
Health Violations

Cobalt in Ohio: what the data shows

Ohio has 0 cities with cobalt data from the EPA's UCMR 3 program (2013–2015). Cobalt was detected in 0 of those cities. There is no federal MCL or health advisory for cobalt in drinking water; the state average max detected level is N/A µg/L. Cobalt enters drinking water primarily from natural weathering of cobalt-bearing rock and from industrial sources including battery manufacturing, mining, and metal alloys. Detection rates in UCMR 3 sampling were low (~3% nationally), suggesting cobalt is generally not a widespread tap-water concern. Cobalt is an essential nutrient (a component of vitamin B12) at trace levels, but elevated waterborne exposure has been linked to thyroid effects and cardiomyopathy in occupational studies. Reverse osmosis and ion exchange systems are effective at removing cobalt.

Cities exceeding No federal MCL or HA

Ohio
0%
0 of 0 cities
▼ 100% below national rate (better)
National avg
100%
305 of 305 cities

Cobalt data across Ohio

Each dot is a city with UCMR 3 cobalt testing data. Detected cities are shown — there is no federal limit. Size reflects population served.

All Ohio cities ranked by cobalt level

No cobalt data available for Ohio cities.

Frequently asked questions about cobalt in Ohio

Is cobalt in Ohio tap water dangerous?

There is no federal MCL or health advisory for cobalt in drinking water. Cobalt was not detected in tested Ohio systems in this data set. Cobalt is an essential trace nutrient at very low levels but has been linked to thyroid and cardiac effects at much higher chronic exposures.

How can I remove cobalt from my water?

Reverse osmosis is highly effective at removing cobalt. Ion exchange systems (water softeners) also work. Standard activated carbon filters are NOT effective against cobalt. Most household water has cobalt below detection, so testing is generally only warranted near mining or battery-industry sites.