Nickel

What is Nickel?
Nickel can be found in trace amounts in most water supplies depending on the location and rock type. It is used in the manufacture of coins, iron, brass, alloys and in the production of stainless steel. Nickel can be found on the coatings on some taps and plumbing fittings and this is typically the main source of Nickel in drinking water. However, raw water can be contaminated by diffuse nickel emissions from power plants, waste incinerators and metal industries, while discharge to surface waters from various industries can also be problematic. In the Drinking Water Regulations it is defined as a Chemical parameter.
What is an exceedance for Nickel?
The limit for Nickel set out in the drinking water directive is 20?g/l. Therefore any result above this level is an exceedance for Nickel.
How would an exceedance for Nickel occur?
Nickel exceedances in drinking water typically where water in a property is in contact with plumbing material that contain Nickel or is Nickel-plated.