Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are a large family of thousands of manmade chemicals that have been used in industrial and commercial applications for over 70 years. PFAS, also know as “forever chemicals,” repel water and oil and are resistant to heat and chemical reactions.
Products that may be manufactured with PFAS include:
- Stain resistant coatings to upholstery and carpets
- Water-resistant breathable clothing
- Greaseproof food packaging
- Non-stick cookware
- Film-forming foams used for stopping hydrocarbon fires and in firefighter training
How do PFAS get into the environment?
- Release from industrial facilities (through wastewater or air emissions) where they are made or used
- Release during firefighting training or use in response to a petroleum-based fire event
- Sludge and effluent from wastewater treatment plants
- Contaminated liquid from landfills (leachate) where PFAS containing industrial waste or consumer products are disposed
Is my drinking water safe?
Your water utility regularly tests for water quality. You can access your utility’s water quality information through the Drinking Water Watch website. This is a database that is searchable by water system ID number, system name, or (if you don’t know the ID number or name) by county and municipality, to identify all systems serving that area. Information on which utilities serve your area can also be found here.
Are there federal regulations?
Yes, In April 2024, the EPA announced regulation of six PFAS in drinking water: PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, PFNA, and HFPO-DA. EPA also providing $1 billion in funding to help states and territories implement PFAS testing and treatment at public water systems to help owners of private wells address PFAS contamination.
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