PFAS
A class of chemicals in use since the 1940s
PFAS refers to a class of poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances, most notably perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS). Manufactured and used across industries since the 1940s, PFAS have been valued for stain-, water-, and non-stick-resistant properties and appear in a wide range of consumer products and firefighting foam.
Phased out here, still arriving
This class of chemicals is highly persistent in both the environment and the human body, drawing significant attention in recent years for its potential health effects. PFOS and PFOA have been phased out of U.S. manufacturing, though they continue to be produced internationally and can enter the country through imported goods.
A fast-moving regulatory picture
The EPA made a preliminary determination to regulate PFOA and PFOS in February 2020, followed by a final determination in February 2021 to regulate both as primary drinking water contaminants under the Safe Drinking Water Act. The agency is now developing corresponding national primary drinking water regulations. In November 2021, the EPA indicated that negative health effects may occur at lower exposure levels than previously understood, and that PFOA is a likely carcinogen; a proposed rule issued in September 2022 would designate PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under CERCLA, intended to accelerate remediation at contaminated sites.
- May 2016
Lifetime health advisories issued
- February 2020
Preliminary determination to regulate
- February 2021
Final determination — primary drinking water contaminants
- November 2021
Lower exposure levels indicated; PFOA a likely carcinogen
- June 2022
Health advisories reduced
- September 2022
Proposed rule — hazardous substances under CERCLA
- January 2023 – December 2025
Nationwide sampling period
As part of its 2021 announcement, the EPA also launched a data collection program requiring public water systems serving 3,300 or more people — along with a representative sample of smaller systems — to sample for 29 PFAS substances and lithium over a twelve-month period between January 2023 and December 2025, to improve understanding of PFAS prevalence in the national water supply. The EPA covers analytical costs for systems serving fewer than 10,000 people.
Advisories, not yet enforceable limits
The EPA has determined that PFOS and PFOA are primary drinking water contaminants, with enforceable MCLs still in development; current Health Advisory Limits are non-binding guidelines. In May 2016, the EPA issued lifetime health advisories of 70 parts per trillion (ppt) for combined PFOA and PFOS, later reducing these dramatically in June 2022 to 0.004 ppt for PFOA and 0.02 ppt for PFOS. Several states have set their own limits in the 12–70 ppt range, though these are expected to drop significantly given the EPA’s revised guidance; Texas TCEQ is awaiting final federal standards before proceeding with PFAS regulation.
Public Health Concern
PFAS are persistent man-made chemicals that accumulate in both the environment and the human body. Exposure occurs through handling products containing PFAS or working at facilities that produce or use them; because of their chemical persistence, drinking water contamination has become a primary concern. Available data suggests PFAS contamination is typically localized to specific facilities, including those that used PFAS in firefighting applications.
Evidence links PFAS exposure to adverse health outcomes including low birth weight and effects on the immune system, liver, and kidneys. PFOA has been linked to cancer, and PFOS to thyroid hormone disruption.
Carbon, resins and membranes
WETS closely monitors the evolving PFAS regulatory landscape and reviews industry developments to identify the best removal methods, including activated carbon treatment, ion exchange resins, and high-pressure membranes such as nanofiltration or reverse osmosis.
WETS has entered a strategic cooperation and master services agreement with Emerging Compounds Treatment Technologies, Inc. to provide their media-based treatment services, including activated carbon and ion exchange technologies for PFAS removal. We will continue monitoring the regulatory situation — contact one of our professional engineers with any questions.
Solutions to Your Water Treatment Needs
Whether you want a new water treatment system installed, need your current one inspected and repaired, or just want a free quote, contact the WETS LLC. With years of experience in the industry, our skilled team members are trained and knowledgeable with a variety of leading water equipment and products. Our certified water purification experts are here to help.
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