Division 3 F1

The water EQS laid down in this Annex are expressed as total concentrations in the whole water sample.

By way of derogation from the first subparagraph, in the case of cadmium, lead, mercury and nickel (hereinafter ‘ metals ’ ), the water EQS refer to the dissolved concentration, i.e. the dissolved phase of a water sample obtained by filtration through a 0,45 μm filter or any equivalent pre-treatment, or, where specifically indicated, to the bioavailable concentration.

Member States may, when assessing the monitoring results against the relevant EQS, take into account:

1. (a)

   natural background concentrations for metals and their compounds where such concentrations prevent compliance with the relevant EQS;

2. (b)

   hardness, pH, dissolved organic carbon or other water quality parameters that affect the bioavailability of metals, the bioavailable concentrations being determined using appropriate bioavailability modelling.