Under the Lead & Copper Rule, what are the lead action level and copper level?

• A. Lead action level = 0.015 mg/L, Copper = 1.3 mg/L
• B. Lead action level = 0.030 mg/L, Copper = 0.8 mg/L
• C. Lead action level = 0.010 mg/L, Copper = 2.0 mg/L
• D. Lead action level = 0.020 mg/L, Copper = 1.0 mg/L

Answer: (A)

In the Lead and Copper Rule, action levels are the thresholds that trigger corrective steps when concentrations exceed them. The lead action level is 0.015 mg/L, which is 15 micrograms per liter (15 ppb). The copper action level is 1.3 mg/L (1,300 ppb). These exact values are the standards used to determine when a water system must take actions like optimizing corrosion control, public education, or treatment adjustments. The correct numbers reflect these regulatory thresholds; other options mix up the values or use different thresholds.