Perchlorate Peer Review Frequent Questions
Why is EPA conducting a peer review?
EPA will ask peer reviewers to comment on products that the agency will use to derive a Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG) for perchlorate. The MCLG is a non-enforceable goal defined under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) as “the level at which no known or anticipated adverse effects on the health of persons occur and which allows an adequate margin of safety.” The MCLG is one of the considerations in developing the enforceable maximum contaminant level (MCL) for a regulated contaminant.
EPA believes that peer review is an important component of the scientific process. The critical feedback, suggestions, and new ideas provided by the peer reviewers stimulate creative thought, strengthen the interpretation of the reviewed material, and confer credibility on the product. The peer review objective is to provide advice to EPA on steps that will yield a highly credible scientific product that is supported by the scientific community.
Where can I find the review products?
All documents in the docket are listed on the http://www.regulations.gov website under Docket ID Numbers EPA-HQ-OW-2016-0438 and EPA-HQ-OW-2016-0439.
Can I provide comments on the review products?
Yes. The public will have an opportunity to review and comment on charge questions and the draft reports undergoing review. Additionally, we intend to allow for people to make brief statements during the peer review meeting. Also, any Safe Drinking Water Act regulation on perchlorate will be subject to public notice and comment.
Are there other reports that will be peer reviewed before EPA proposes a regulation?
Yes after the peer review of the Biologically Based Dose-Response (BBDR) report is complete, the Agency plans to conduct peer review of another report that describes methodologies for deriving a Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG Report) using the BBDR model. EPA plans to consider the peer review comments on the BBDR model before we present this next MCLG report for peer review. We expect peer review of the MCLG Report will take place in the spring of 2017.
When will EPA establish a national drinking water standard for perchlorate?
EPA will consider public comments and peer reviewer comments submitted in accordance with the Federal Register notice when finalizing the peer review products. After the peer review is complete, EPA will take the next appropriate steps.