additional information
Frequently Asked Questions:
General:
WHY USE PFAST?
Choosing our lab for PFAS testing ensures you receive expert analysis with fast turnaround times. We specialize in PFAS detection, utilizing advanced technology and holding necessary certifications for reliable and accurate results. Our clear, detailed reports are delivered to you with industry leading turnaround time so you can quickly make informed decisions.
Our dedicated customer service team is here to assist with sample collection, answer questions, and offer guidance throughout the process. With a commitment to quality, we adhere to rigorous standards and protocols to ensure the accuracy of your test results. Contact us to learn more about how we can meet your PFAS testing needs efficiently and effectively.
WHICH TEST IS BEST FOR ME?
We offer four different tests to choose from. Start by identifying whether you need certified results or not. For most people testing water in their homes, our PFASt Basic and PFASt Plus are great options. PFASt Pro and PFASt Pro Rush are perfect for businesses that need certified test results to comply with environmental regulations. You can also consult with our experts to help you select the right test based on your situation. We can guide you on the most appropriate testing methods and compounds to ensure you get accurate and useful results for your particular circumstances.
HOW MANY SAMPLES CAN I TAKE WITH ONE KIT?
A single PFAS testing kit is designed to handle one sample. If you have multiple samples, you will need additional kits for each one. However, the exact number can vary depending on the specific kit and its intended use. Always check the instructions provided with your kit for details on sample capacity. If you have a large number of samples, we can provide guidance on bulk testing options and help streamline the process for you.
WHAT DOES IT COST TO TEST MY WATER?
All test kit prices are shown with all costs included. The cost of water testing depends on which test kit you select.
WHICH SAMPLING METHOD SHOULD I USE?
Choose the sampling method based on what you would like to know regarding your water. Collecting the first water from the source will provide more information about how your plumbing affects your water. Flushing the water for 15 minutes prior to collection will provide better information around the quality of your water source.
SHOULD I TEST BEFORE OR AFTER I INSTALL MY WATER FILTRATION SYSTEM?
To best understand the impact of your water filtration system, you should test our water both before AND after installing your water filtration system. Testing before installation helps you understand the baseline levels of PFAS and other contaminants in your water. This information is crucial for selecting the most effective filtration system for your needs. Testing after installation verifies that the filtration system is effectively reducing or removing PFAS and other contaminants as intended. It ensures that the system is working correctly and meets your water quality expectations. Testing at both stages provides a clear picture of your water quality and the effectiveness of your filtration system.
WHERE SHOULD I TAKE MY SAMPLE?
Take the sample directly from the tap you use most frequently for drinking water and cooking. Ensure the tap has been running for at least 5 minutes (15 minutes is best) before collecting the sample to flush out any stagnant water. Only use collection containers provided by PFAST as these containers are designed to prevent contamination and ensure accurate results. Do not touch the inside of the sample container or its lid and collect samples in a clean area to avoid introducing any contaminants. If you want to test water from other sources, such as a well or a different tap, follow the same procedure.
DO YOU COME AND TEST MY WATER?
We do not offer on-site water testing services. However, we can provide you with detailed instructions for collecting water samples and ensure you have the necessary equipment. You can then send the samples to our lab for analysis. If you need professional assistance with sample collection, we can recommend trusted local partners who offer on-site water testing services.
WHERE IS MY TEST KIT?
If you’re waiting for a test kit, verify that your order was confirmed and check any provided tracking information for updates, ensure that the shipping address you provided is correct and up-to-date. If you still haven’t received your kit or have concerns about its status, please reach out to our customer service team for assistance. They can provide tracking information and help resolve any issues.
IS YOUR LABORATORY CERTIFIED?
The PFAST Pro and PFAST Pro Rush test kits are performed by partner laboratories with certifications and accreditations that include ISO, NELAC/ELAP, DOD, AIAH, and DOE. Our PFAST Basic and PFAST Plus kits are tested at our laboratory that uses EPA-approved methods and adheres to industry best practices to ensure reliable results.
ARE YOU AN EPA CERTIFIED LABORATORY?
The Federal EPA does not certify individual laboratories, rather it validates analytical methods. We use EPA-approved methods and adhere to industry best practices to ensure reliable results.
Our lab is accredited by recognized organizations and follows rigorous standards for testing accuracy and quality.
Your Test Results:
WHEN DO I RECEIVE MY RESULTS?
Typically, you can expect to receive your PFAS test results within 5 business days after we receive your water samples. We strive to provide accurate and timely results, and you’ll be notified as soon as your analysis is complete. If you need results more urgently, please let us know, and we can discuss expedited options.
WHY CAN I NOT SEE MY REPORT?
If you cannot find your report, ensure that you are checking the same email address that you used to register the samples and that there are no access issues. Please check your email for any notifications or updates regarding your report. If you still have difficulty locating your report and it has been less than 5 business days since, it is possible the sample might still be in the testing stage and hasn’t been uploaded. If 5 business days have already passed, please contact us for assistance.
HOW DO I RECEIVE MY RESULTS?
Once your results are ready, you will be notified by email. Your results will show on a PDF report attached to your email.
WHAT DO MY RESULTS INCLUDE?
Your PFAS testing results will include compound concentration levels measured in parts per trillion (PPT). The results are also compared to relevant health advisories or regulatory limits to help you understand if the levels are above or below these thresholds. The detection limits of the tests performed show the minimum level at which PFAS can be reliably detected. Some reports may include a summary or interpretation of the findings, and recommendations for next steps, such as consulting with a water treatment specialist or the purchase of a water filtration system. If you have any questions about your results or need help interpreting them, our customer support team is available to assist you.
WHAT IF I HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT MY RESULTS?
If you have questions about your PFAS test results, you can reach out to our customer support team for clarification or further explanation. We can help you understand your results and their implications. You can also check our website for information on PFAS, interpretation of test results, and recommended actions based on different levels of contamination. For in-depth analysis or advice, consider consulting with a water treatment specialist or environmental consultant who can provide professional guidance based on your results.
Feel free to contact us directly if you need assistance. We’re here to help you ensure your water quality meets your safety needs.
HOW ACCURATE ARE MY RESULTS?
Our lab follows strict protocols to ensure accurate and reliable results. We use advanced analytical methods and equipment specifically designed for PFAS detection. Accuracy largely depends on proper sample collection and handling. Carefully following the instructions for sampling is crucial to avoid contamination and ensure reliable results. If you have concerns about the accuracy of your results, feel free to contact our support team for further clarification.
ARE MY RESULTS PRIVATE?
Yes, your results are private. We prioritize your confidentiality and follow strict data protection protocols to ensure your information remains secure. Your test results will only be accessible to you and authorized personnel directly involved in your testing process. If you have any concerns about privacy or data security, please feel free to reach out to us.
PFAS In Rural Environments Facts:
WHAT ARE PFAS?
PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in various industries around the world since the 1940s. They are found in a wide range of products such as nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, stain-resistant fabrics, and firefighting foams. PFAS are often called “forever chemicals” because they do not break down in the environment and can accumulate over time.
Key Points:
- Persistent: PFAS remain in the environment for a long time.
- Widespread Use: Found in many consumer and industrial products.
- Health Concerns: Linked to various health issues, including cancer, liver damage, and developmental effects in children.
- Regulatory Attention: Increasingly regulated by health and environmental agencies.
Given the potential health risks and the persistent nature of these chemicals, it is important to monitor and manage PFAS levels in drinking water and other sources. Our testing services can help you determine the presence and concentration of PFAS in your water supply, ensuring your safety and peace of mind.
HOW TOXIC ARE PFAS?
PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are considered highly toxic due to their persistence in the environment and their ability to accumulate in the human body over time. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to a range of serious health effects. Here are some key points regarding the toxicity of PFAS:
Health Effects
- Cancer: Some PFAS, particularly PFOA and PFOS, have been associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, including kidney and testicular cancer.
- Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). “Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Basics.” EPA.
- Source: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). “Toxicological Profile for Perfluoroalkyls.” ATSDR.
- Liver Damage: PFAS exposure can lead to liver damage and affect liver function.
- Source: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS). “Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and Health.” NIEHS.
- Developmental Issues: Exposure to PFAS during pregnancy can result in adverse developmental effects in infants, including low birth weight and developmental delays.
- Source: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). “PFAS: A Growing Concern.” AAP.
- Immune System Impacts: PFAS can weaken the immune system, reducing the body’s ability to fight infections.
- Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and Immune System.” CDC.
- Thyroid Disease: PFAS exposure is linked to thyroid disease and hormonal disruptions.
- Source: National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS). “Thyroid Hormones and PFAS.” NIEHS.
- Cholesterol Levels: PFAS can increase cholesterol levels, leading to cardiovascular issues.
- Source: Environmental Working Group (EWG). “PFAS Chemicals and Cholesterol.” EWG.
- Reproductive Health: PFAS exposure has been associated with decreased fertility and adverse effects on reproductive health.
- Source: Environmental Health Perspectives. “Reproductive Effects of PFAS Exposure.” EHP.
Persistence and Bioaccumulation
- Environmental Persistence: PFAS do not break down easily in the environment, leading to long-term contamination of water, soil, and air.
- Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). “PFAS: A Brief Introduction.” EPA.
- Bioaccumulation: PFAS can accumulate in the bodies of living organisms, including humans, leading to higher concentrations over time with continuous exposure.
- Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). “Regulation of PFAS in Drinking Water.” EPA.
Regulatory Actions
Due to the significant health risks posed by PFAS, regulatory agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have set limits on PFAS levels in drinking water and are taking steps to reduce PFAS exposure and contamination.
Importance of Testing
Given the serious health risks and the persistent nature of PFAS, it is crucial to monitor and manage their levels in drinking water and other sources. Our PFAS testing services can help you identify the presence and concentration of these harmful chemicals in your water supply, ensuring your safety and well-being.
WHAT ARE SOME COMMON SOURCES OF PFAS?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemicals widely used in various industrial and consumer products due to their water- and grease-resistant properties. Here are some common sources of PFAS:
- Consumer Products:
- Nonstick Cookware: PFAS are used in the coating of nonstick pans and other cookware to prevent food from sticking.
- Waterproof and Stain-Resistant Fabrics: PFAS are applied to clothing, furniture, and carpets to repel water, oil, and stains.
- Food Packaging: PFAS are found in grease-resistant packaging such as microwave popcorn bags, fast-food wrappers, and pizza boxes.
- Industrial Applications:
- Firefighting Foams: PFAS are a key component in aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) used to extinguish flammable liquid fires.
- Manufacturing Processes: PFAS are used in the production of electronics, semiconductors, and other industrial applications requiring heat and chemical resistance.
- Household Products:
- Cleaning Products: Some household cleaners contain PFAS for their grease-cutting properties.
- Cosmetics: PFAS can be found in various cosmetics, including foundation, mascara, and lipstick, to improve texture and wear resistance.
- Environmental Contamination:
- Water Sources: PFAS can leach into groundwater and surface water from industrial sites, landfills, and areas where firefighting foams have been used.
- Soil and Air: PFAS can accumulate in soil and be transported through air, leading to widespread environmental contamination.
- Food:
- Contaminated Water: PFAS can enter the food chain through crops irrigated with contaminated water or fish from polluted water bodies.
- Packaging: PFAS in food packaging materials can migrate into the food itself.
- Personal Care Products:
- Dental Floss: Some brands of dental floss use PFAS to enhance the glide.
- Shampoos and Conditioners: PFAS are used in some hair care products to impart a smooth, silky feel.
Understanding these common sources can help individuals take steps to reduce their exposure to PFAS, such as choosing PFAS-free products, using water filters certified to remove PFAS, and supporting efforts to regulate and clean up PFAS contamination.
Sources:
- EPA PFAS Information: EPA PFAS Information
- CDC Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry: CDC PFAS Information
- NIH National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences: NIH PFAS Information
DOES WASTEWATER TREATMENT REMOVE PFAS?
Wastewater treatment processes vary in their ability to remove PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). Traditional wastewater treatment plants are generally not designed to remove these persistent chemicals effectively. Here’s a more detailed look:
Traditional Wastewater Treatment
- Primary and Secondary Treatment:
- These stages typically involve physical separation, biological processes, and basic chemical treatments. However, they do not effectively remove PFAS due to the chemicals’ resistance to degradation and their ability to dissolve in water.
Advanced Treatment Technologies
Some advanced treatment methods have shown promise in reducing PFAS levels, including:
- Granular Activated Carbon (GAC):
- GAC can adsorb certain PFAS from water, but its effectiveness varies depending on the specific PFAS and the conditions. Over time, the carbon becomes saturated and needs to be replaced or regenerated.
- Ion Exchange Resins:
- These resins can selectively remove PFAS from water by exchanging ions in the water with ions on the resin. They can be effective for certain PFAS compounds but also require regeneration or disposal.
- Reverse Osmosis (RO):
- RO is a highly effective method that forces water through a semipermeable membrane, leaving PFAS and other contaminants behind. However, it is energy-intensive and produces a concentrated waste stream that requires proper disposal.
- Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs):
- These processes involve the generation of highly reactive species (such as hydroxyl radicals) that can degrade PFAS. AOPs can be effective but are typically expensive and require careful management to ensure complete breakdown of PFAS.
Challenges and Considerations
- Persistence: PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in the environment. This persistence makes it challenging to remove them completely using standard treatment methods.
- Concentrated Waste: Advanced treatment methods can produce concentrated waste streams containing PFAS, which must be managed and disposed of safely to prevent recontamination.
- Cost: Implementing and maintaining advanced treatment technologies can be expensive, which is a significant consideration for municipalities and industries.
Conclusion
While traditional wastewater treatment plants are not effective at removing PFAS, advanced treatment technologies can reduce PFAS levels. However, these advanced methods come with higher costs and additional challenges related to waste management and energy use. Continued research and development are essential to improving PFAS removal efficiencies and finding cost-effective solutions.
Sources:
- EPA on Wastewater Treatment: EPA Wastewater Technology
- NIH National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences: NIH PFAS Information
- Water Environment Federation: WEF PFAS Information
IS PFAS FOUND IN FOOD?
Yes, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) can be found in food. These chemicals can enter the food supply through various pathways. Here are some common sources and mechanisms by which PFAS can contaminate food:
Sources of PFAS in Food
- Food Packaging:
- PFAS are used in certain food packaging materials, such as grease-resistant paper, fast food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, and pizza boxes. These chemicals can migrate into the food, especially when the food is hot or fatty.
- Contaminated Water:
- PFAS can contaminate water supplies, which are then used for irrigation of crops or drinking water for livestock. This can lead to the accumulation of PFAS in fruits, vegetables, and animal products.
- Contaminated Soil:
- PFAS can persist in soil, especially near industrial sites or areas where firefighting foams have been used. Crops grown in contaminated soil can absorb PFAS, leading to contamination of the produce.
- Bioaccumulation in Fish and Wildlife:
- PFAS can accumulate in aquatic environments, contaminating fish and other seafood. This occurs because PFAS are resistant to degradation and can accumulate in the tissues of fish and other aquatic organisms.
- Food Processing Equipment:
- Certain food processing equipment and materials, such as non-stick coatings on cookware and utensils, can contain PFAS. These chemicals can leach into food during processing or cooking.
Examples of PFAS in Food
- Seafood: Fish and shellfish from contaminated waters are often found to have higher levels of PFAS.
- Dairy Products: Milk and dairy products can be contaminated if cows are exposed to PFAS-contaminated water or feed.
- Meat and Eggs: Animals that drink contaminated water or eat contaminated feed can accumulate PFAS in their tissues.
- Vegetables and Fruits: Crops grown in contaminated soil or irrigated with contaminated water can contain PFAS.
Health Implications
Consuming PFAS-contaminated food can contribute to overall exposure to these chemicals, which are linked to various health risks, including cancer, liver damage, decreased fertility, increased risk of thyroid disease, and developmental effects in infants and children.
Regulatory and Monitoring Efforts
Regulatory agencies such as the EPA and FDA are working to better understand and manage the presence of PFAS in the food supply. Efforts include setting safety standards, monitoring contamination levels, and researching ways to reduce exposure.
Sources:
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): FDA on PFAS in Food
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): EPA on PFAS and Food
HOW ARE PFAS REGULATED?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are regulated through a combination of federal, state, and international guidelines and standards. Here’s an overview of how PFAS are regulated:
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
- Drinking Water Standards:
- The EPA has proposed enforceable limits for six specific PFAS chemicals in drinking water: PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, HFPO-DA (GenX Chemicals), and PFBS.
- The EPA sets health advisories to provide information on the health risks of PFAS in drinking water, even though these advisories are not legally enforceable.
- Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA):
- Under TSCA, the EPA can require reporting, record-keeping, and testing requirements, and place restrictions on PFAS production and use.
- PFAS Action Plan:
- The EPA’s PFAS Action Plan outlines steps to address PFAS in drinking water, identify and clean up PFAS contamination, expand monitoring, and increase research efforts.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- Food Safety:
- The FDA monitors PFAS in the food supply and assesses the potential risks associated with food contact substances containing PFAS.
- The FDA has also authorized certain uses of PFAS in food packaging materials but continues to review and reevaluate these uses as new data emerge.
Department of Defense (DoD)
- Environmental Cleanup:
- The DoD is actively involved in identifying and cleaning up PFAS contamination on military bases and other defense-related sites.
State Regulations
- Several states have established their own regulations for PFAS in drinking water, often setting stricter standards than the federal guidelines. Examples include:
- California: Has established notification levels and response levels for several PFAS in drinking water.
- Michigan: Has adopted enforceable drinking water standards for seven PFAS compounds.
- New Jersey: Was the first state to set enforceable drinking water standards for PFNA, PFOA, and PFOS.
Challenges and Ongoing Efforts
Regulating PFAS is challenging due to the large number of different PFAS compounds, their widespread use, and their persistence in the environment. Regulatory agencies continue to research PFAS, develop new standards, and update existing guidelines as more information becomes available. Public and stakeholder engagement, along with international cooperation, is crucial for effectively managing PFAS contamination and reducing exposure risks.
Sources:
- EPA on PFAS Regulation: EPA PFAS Laws and Regulations
- FDA on PFAS in Food: FDA on PFAS
WHEN ARE LAB CERTIFICATIONS FOR PFAS TESTING REQUIRED?
Lab certifications for PFAS testing are required in various contexts to ensure accuracy, reliability, and compliance with regulatory standards. Here are some key situations to consider when certifications are necessary:
Drinking Water Testing
- Regulatory Compliance:
- Public water systems must use certified laboratories to test for PFAS to comply with federal and state regulations, such as those set by the EPA under the Safe Drinking Water Act.
- The EPA has established specific methods for PFAS testing in drinking water, and laboratories must be certified to use these methods.
- State-Specific Requirements:
- States with their own PFAS regulations may require testing to be conducted by state-certified laboratories.
- Examples include states like California, New Jersey, and Michigan, which have set their own enforceable limits for PFAS in drinking water.
Environmental Cleanup and Monitoring
- Superfund Sites and Contaminated Areas:
- Certified laboratories are required for testing PFAS in soil, groundwater, and other environmental media at Superfund sites and other contaminated locations to ensure reliable data for cleanup and remediation efforts.
- Industrial and Military Sites:
- Facilities such as manufacturing plants and military bases with known PFAS contamination must use certified laboratories for environmental monitoring and reporting.
Consumer Products and Food Safety
- FDA and Food Contact Materials:
- For PFAS testing in food and food contact materials, laboratories must be certified to perform the tests according to FDA guidelines and standards.
- Consumer Products:
- Products like nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, and stain-resistant fabrics may require testing by certified labs to ensure they meet safety standards and regulations.
Wastewater and Industrial Discharges
- NPDES Permits:
- Facilities discharging wastewater must comply with National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits, which may include PFAS monitoring by certified laboratories.
Certification Programs
- National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (NELAP):
- NELAP accredits laboratories for various environmental testing, including PFAS, ensuring they meet stringent quality and performance standards.
- State-Specific Accreditation:
- Many states have their own laboratory certification programs to ensure compliance with state-specific PFAS testing requirements.
Benefits of Certification
- Accuracy and Reliability: Certified laboratories follow standardized methods and quality control procedures, ensuring accurate and reliable test results.
- Regulatory Compliance: Certification ensures that testing meets regulatory requirements, avoiding legal and financial penalties.
Conclusion
Certification of laboratories for PFAS testing is crucial for ensuring the reliability of test results and compliance with regulatory standards. Whether for drinking water, environmental cleanup, consumer products, or wastewater discharge, using certified labs helps protect public health and the environment.
Sources:
- EPA on Laboratory Certification: EPA Lab Certification
- National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (NELAP): NELAP Information
- State Environmental Agencies: State Resources
DO WE NEED TO WORRY ABOUT PFAS FROM THE LOCAL LANDFILL?
Why PFAS in Landfills is a Concern
- Persistence and Mobility:
- Long-Term Presence: PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they persist in the environment for long periods. Once PFAS enter a landfill, they can remain there for decades.
- Leaching: PFAS can leach from landfills into groundwater and surface water through leachate (the liquid that drains from landfills). This can lead to contamination of drinking water supplies.
- Sources of PFAS in Landfills:
- Consumer Products: Many consumer products that end up in landfills contain PFAS, such as stain-resistant carpets, nonstick cookware, and certain types of food packaging.
- Firefighting Foam: If a landfill has received materials associated with firefighting training or response, these could contain PFAS.
- Potential Health Risks:
- Water Supply Contamination: Leachate from landfills can contaminate nearby groundwater sources, which may be used for drinking water.
- Soil and Vegetation: PFAS contamination can affect soil and vegetation near landfills, potentially impacting local agriculture and ecosystems.
What You Can Do
- Monitor and Test:
- Water Testing: Regularly test groundwater and surface water near landfills for PFAS contamination, especially if you are in an area with known or suspected landfill leachate issues.
- Soil Testing: In areas close to landfills, soil testing can help determine if PFAS are present in the soil.
- Consult Local Authorities:
- Landfill Management: Contact your local waste management or environmental agency to understand how the landfill is managed and what measures are in place to control leachate and prevent contamination.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that the landfill complies with state and federal regulations regarding PFAS management and leachate control.
- Preventive Measures:
- Protect Water Sources: Consider installing water treatment systems that can filter out PFAS if you are in an area affected by potential landfill leachate.
- Community Action: Advocate for better landfill management practices and stricter regulations to minimize PFAS contamination.
- Stay Informed:
- Environmental Reports: Review environmental reports and studies related to local landfills to stay informed about any potential PFAS contamination issues.
Conclusion
PFAS contamination from local landfills is a legitimate concern due to their persistence and potential for environmental impact. Monitoring, testing, and engaging with local authorities can help address and mitigate these risks. Taking proactive measures to protect water sources and soil can also be beneficial in managing potential PFAS exposure.
Sources:
- EPA on Landfills and PFAS: EPA PFAS in Landfills
- State Environmental Agencies: State Landfill Regulations
DO RURAL COMMUNITIES NEED TO BE CONCERNED ABOUT PFAST?
Even if your town is surrounded by farmland and has little industrial activity, there are still reasons to be concerned about PFAS contamination. Here’s why and what to consider:
Reasons for Concern
- Agricultural Use of PFAS-Containing Products:
- Pesticides and Fertilizers: Some pesticides and fertilizers have historically contained PFAS or have been manufactured with PFAS-containing materials. These chemicals can end up in the soil and potentially leach into groundwater.
- Manure and Biosolids: Manure from livestock that may have been exposed to PFAS-containing feed or water, as well as biosolids used as fertilizers, can contribute to PFAS in the soil.
- Transportation and Spread of PFAS:
- Atmospheric Deposition: PFAS can be transported over long distances through the air and deposit onto soil and water bodies, even in areas without local sources of contamination.
- Runoff and Leachate: PFAS contamination from areas further away can spread through runoff and leachate, affecting nearby agricultural land and water sources.
- Potential Contamination Sources:
- Firefighting Foam: If firefighting training or emergencies have occurred nearby, PFAS-containing firefighting foam might have been used, leading to potential soil and groundwater contamination.
- Landfills and Waste: If there are landfills or waste disposal sites in the area, they may contain PFAS from various sources.
- Water Supply and Health Risks:
- Groundwater and Wells: If you rely on well water, it’s crucial to test for PFAS, especially if there’s a chance that contaminants could have traveled from distant sources.
- Health Risks: Even low levels of PFAS exposure over time can pose health risks, including potential links to certain cancers and other serious health conditions.
What to Do
- Testing and Monitoring:
- Water Testing: Test your well water and local surface water for PFAS to determine if contamination is present.
- Soil Testing: Consider soil testing, especially if you use biosolids or manure from external sources.
- Consult Local and State Agencies:
- Environmental and Health Agencies: Reach out to local environmental and health departments for information on PFAS testing and potential sources of contamination in your area.
- Agricultural Extension Services: They may have information on the use of PFAS-containing products and their impact on local agriculture.
- Preventive Measures:
- Water Treatment: If PFAS are detected, consider installing water treatment systems designed to remove PFAS, such as activated carbon filters or reverse osmosis systems.
- Safe Farming Practices: Be cautious about the sources of fertilizers, pesticides, and biosolids used on farms. Opt for products that are known to be free of PFAS.
- Stay Informed:
- Local Environmental Reports: Keep track of any local environmental assessments or reports related to PFAS contamination.
Conclusion
Even in areas with minimal industrial activity, PFAS contamination can still be a concern due to agricultural practices, atmospheric deposition, and potential contamination from nearby sources. Proactive testing and monitoring, combined with preventive measures, can help manage and reduce potential risks associated with PFAS.
Sources:
- EPA on Agricultural PFAS Sources: EPA PFAS and Agriculture
- CDC on PFAS Health Effects: CDC PFAS Health Effects
WHAT LEAD OR TURN-AROUND-TIMES ARE TYPICAL FOR PFAS TESTING?
Typical Turnaround Times
- Standard Testing:
- Time Required: For routine PFAS testing, such as for water or soil samples, the turnaround time is generally between 2 to 4 weeks. This includes the time needed for sample processing, analysis, and reporting.
- Expedited Testing:
- Time Required: Some laboratories offer expedited services for urgent cases, which can shorten the turnaround time to 1 week or less, depending on the lab’s capacity and the urgency of the request.
- Complex or High-Volume Testing:
- Time Required: If the testing involves complex mixtures or a high volume of samples, turnaround times may be longer, potentially extending to 4 to 6 weeks.
Sources:
- EPA’s Overview of PFAS Testing: EPA PFAS Testing