A new well-water testing kit for arsenic has been developed for homeowners with private water systems.

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element  that, in many parts of the world, leaches into ground water. Long-term exposure to the inorganic forms causes multiple health issues; inorganic arsenic is toxic and carcinogenic. Also a hazardous byproduct of copper smelting, mining and coal burning, arsenic can cause birth defects and reproductive problems as well. Arsenic has no smell, taste or color when dissolved in water, even in high concentrations, thus, water testing is necessary to verify its presence and concentration.

Industrial Test Systems Inc. has developed smaller versions of the USEPA/ETV-verified Quick Arsenic Test Kits to help private well owners test the presence of inorganic arsenic (As +3 / As +5) quickly, without waiting for lab results. These kits should provide accurate results, and are said to require no technical expertise. Testing can be done in less than 15 minutes at home.

For more information, call 800-861-9712, ext. 1, or visit www.arsenickits.com.