The aim of the focus action was to determine the possible contamination of drinking water with selected pesticide active substances and metabolites (degradation products) throughout Austria.

248 samples from all over Austria were examined.

• Six samples were found to be in violation of food regulations due to their content of pesticides or relevant or non-relevant metabolites.

According to the Drinking Water Ordinance, the parameter value for pesticides is 0.1 μg/l. This value represents a strict precautionary value to keep groundwater and drinking water as free as possible from pesticides. Generous safety margins are taken into account, i.e. no immediate health effects can be derived if the value is exceeded.