AKRON, Ohio — The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency has issued a formal violation notice to the City of Akron after routine testing revealed levels of haloacetic acids (HAA5) in the public drinking water supply exceeded federal and state safety standards.
According to documents dated July 28, 2025, the city’s water system recorded average HAA5 levels of 0.0623 mg/L at one location and 0.0627 mg/L at another, slightly above the maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 0.060 mg/L allowed under the Ohio Administrative Code.
The exceedance was detected during third-quarter testing and is based on a running annual average, which reflects long-term exposure. The samples were taken from distribution system locations DS205 (4514 Swan Lake) and DS212 (150 Ascot Parkway at Win Street).
What Are HAA5 and Why Does It Matter?
HAA5 refers to a group of five haloacetic acids — byproducts that form when chlorine or other disinfectants react with organic matter in drinking water. These compounds are regulated due to their link to increased cancer risk with long-term exposure.
According to the U.S. EPA, prolonged consumption of water containing HAA5 above regulatory limits may raise the risk of certain cancers, including bladder and colorectal cancers. The agency classifies the public health risk from HAA5 as chronic rather than acute, meaning harm may result from decades of exposure rather than immediate illness.
Health experts advise that vulnerable populations, including infants, elderly individuals, and people with compromised immune systems, may be at heightened risk.
Required Actions and Public Notification
In response, the Ohio EPA ordered the city to take immediate steps to notify affected customers within 30 days using approved language outlining the violation, its duration, and potential health effects. Akron must also submit verification that notification was completed, continue quarterly monitoring of HAA5 levels, and consult with EPA officials to develop a compliance strategy.
The city is further required to disclose the violation and any corrective measures taken in its annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) to residents.
The Ohio EPA said it appreciates the city’s cooperation but warned that “continued noncompliance may lead to additional enforcement actions.”
Public Health Impact and Guidance
While the violation does not currently require residents to stop using tap water, the EPA's notice recommends that individuals with specific health concerns consult their physicians. The city has not yet announced any operational changes or treatment adjustments.
Public notices are being distributed via mail and in public buildings such as schools, nursing homes, and apartment complexes to ensure widespread awareness.
Background
The Akron Public Water System (PWS ID: OH7700011) serves thousands of residents in Summit County and has historically complied with drinking water regulations. However, this violation marks a significant infraction under the Safe Drinking Water Act and Ohio's regulatory framework.
For more information, residents can contact the Ohio EPA Division of Drinking and Ground Waters at epa.ohio.gov or call the Compliance Assurance Section at (614) 644-2752.
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