The tests carried out on the water samples have shown that there are no longer any harmful contaminants. The public health department has approved the drinking water after evaluating the initial laboratory results.
What was found in the water?
During the tests, small quantities of the substances toluene and xylene, commonly known as "benzenes", were detected. The concentrations measured are in the very low range of less than 1 microgram per liter.
For comparison: For the related substance benzene - which is considered more critical to health - there is a limit value of 1 microgram per liter in the Drinking Water Ordinance. The values currently measured are well below this reference value. For toluene and xylene themselves, the Drinking Water Ordinance does not set any specific limit values. However, technical evaluations and toxicological assessments show that significantly higher concentrations would also be required for these substances in order to expect health effects.
In addition, slightly increased levels of so-called trihalomethanes were detected. These are substances that can also be produced in very small quantities during normal drinking water treatment. In the opinion of the specialist authorities, the measured values do not constitute a reason to restrict the use of the water.
Restrictions on use have been lifted
As things stand, there is no health risk from the drinking water. The substances detected are present in very low concentrations and were assessed as a precautionary measure in the course of the comprehensive tests. A detailed final report from the laboratory will follow. All previously applicable restrictions on use are hereby lifted. Tap water can be used again as usual - including for drinking, preparing food and personal hygiene.
Citizens will be informed about the lifting of the measures via loudspeaker announcements, post, the website and social media.
People returning from vacation are also advised to flush all pipes for at least 10 minutes after their return, and dishwashers and washing machines should also be run empty once.
The hotline 07141 4864-0 is available until 4 p.m. on Sunday (April 5) for any queries.
Thanks to the public and emergency services
District Administrator Dietmar Allgaier and Werner Brosi, Deputy Mayor of the municipality of Möglingen, would like to expressly thank the residents for their understanding and patience.
"Special thanks also go to the emergency services, the building yard, the specialist authorities involved and all the helpers who contributed to overcoming the situation," says District Administrator Allgaier.
