Page 4: Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality: Guideline Technical Document – Carbon Tetrachloride
Part I. Overview and Application - Continued
Note: Specific guidance related to the implementation of drinking water guidelines should be obtained from the appropriate drinking water authority in the affected jurisdiction.
Carbon tetrachloride is classified as a possible human carcinogen, based on inadequate evidence of carcinogenicity in humans, but sufficient evidence in animals. However, there are major deficiencies in the available cancer studies. The guidelines for carbon tetrachloride is based on a lifetime exposure from drinking water. Carbon tetrachloride is not a concern for the majority of Canadians who rely on surface water as their source of drinking water, because it volatilizes easily.
Short-term exceedances above the guideline value are unlikely to have an effect on health. However, in the event that monitoring data show elevated levels on a yearly basis, it is suggested that a plan be developed and implemented to address these situations.
Date reviewed: 2026-06-05