[Evaluation of the quality of artesian water sources in the Moscow Region].

The investigation has confirmed that the maximum allowable concentrations (MAC) of elements, such as aluminum, manganese, fluorides, and iron, are exceeded in the artesian waters of the Moscow Region. The major man-made pollutants of portable underground water have been ascertained to be cadmium, nickel, and lead. The main site of contamination by these elements was found in the wells located in the center of the region. Hygienic assessment has shown that the Moscow Region's artesian water in 89% of cases of all tested wells fails to conform to the established standard amount of excess MAC multiplicity scores for class 1 and 2 hazard elements standardized by the sanitary toxicological indicator. According to the particular excess MAC multiplicity rating score (sigma(beta gamma)), the contamination of drinking underground water by Li, Sr, Cd, Pb, Ni, Al, Mn, Fe, and F- is detectable in the range from low to moderate levels. There is need for pre-purification of underground water for its use for drinking purposes.