Chloroform is a chemical formed when chlorine in water treatment reacts with organic matter. It's also used in industry. Exposure can damage the liver and kidneys.

Chloroform forms as a byproduct when chlorine used in water treatment reacts with organic matter. It's also used in various industrial processes. This volatile organic compound can enter drinking water through chlorination or industrial contamination. Water utilities measure chloroform using gas chromatography. Long-term exposure may lead to liver and kidney damage. The EPA regulates chloroform as part of trihalomethanes, setting a maximum contaminant level of 0.080 mg/L for total trihalomethanes in drinking water to protect public health.