PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been used in many consumer products around the world. These “forever” chemicals do not break down easily in the environment. It is estimated that there are more than 6,000 different chemicals in this large chemical group.

PFAS includes several subgroups of chemicals with new compounds being identified continuously.

In April of 2024, the EPA finalized a standard to limit 6 types of PFAS in drinking water known as PFOA, PFOS, GenX, PFHxS, PFNA and PFBS. Read about the April 2024 EPA Standards here.

The various types of PFAS chemicals differ from one another in their chemical structure. Still, all are known to persist in the environment and have potential negative effects on human health.

PFAS can be found in a variety of everyday items. These chemicals may be found in:

• Household cleaning products
• Flame retardants and firefighting foam 
• Non-stick cookware
• Water-proof and waxy food packaging such as popcorn bags
• Dental floss
• Cosmetics
• Personal hygiene products
• Weatherproof coatings
• Automobile spray waxes
• Electronics
• Stain-resistant spays and cleaners

Though many applications are now being phased out in the US, the resistant nature of these chemicals means that they are now prevalent throughout the environment.

PFAS were originally developed as refrigerants and were selected for their superior ability to repel water and oil as well as to prevent corrosion.

These qualities led to their use in a variety of products where water-resistance, slipperiness, stain-proofing or degreasing were desired.

PFAS are unique because they dissolve in water and move throughout the environment with ease, yet they are very resistant to breaking down and they can accumulate in the body over time.

Current scientific research suggests that exposure to high levels of certain PFAS may lead to adverse health outcomes for multiple body systems and organs.

Research is still ongoing to determine how different levels of exposure to various types of PFAS lead to a variety of health effects.

Research is also underway to better understand the health effects associated with low levels of exposure to PFAS over long periods of time, especially in children.

More information related to our current understanding of human health and environmental risks of PFAS can be found on the EPA’s PFAS Pages.

In 2016, an advisory on two kinds of PFAS (called PFOA and PFOS) was set followed by and an interim health advisory in 2022. Provisional PFOS and PFOA levels were set at a maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 4 parts per trillion, or the equivalent of 1 drop of impurity in 5 Olympic swimming pools.

As of April 10, 2024, the EPA finalized the first-ever national standard to limit PFAS in drinking water. The standard applies to six types of PFAS known as PFOA, PFOS, HFPO-DA (GenX), PFHxS, PFNA and PFBS.

The new limits under the April 2024 standards are as follows:

• The 4 part per trillion limits for PFOA and PFOS were kept the same.
• A 10 part per trillion limit was set for HFPO-DA, (GenX Chemicals), PFHxS and PFNA. 
• The EPA has also set a limit for any mixture of two or more of the following PFAS: PFNA, PFHxS, PFBS, and HFPO-DA (GenX Chemicals).

PWSA has been testing for these substances well before the announcement of proposed limits and the water we provide to customers tests well below the limits for the six PFAS compounds included in the agency’s rule. 

Though PFAS are widespread, there are actions you can take to reduce your exposure:
 

• Avoid products containing known PFAS (PTFE or any chemical starting with perfluoro or polyfluor).
• Avoid non-stick products. Opt for stainless steel, cast iron, and glass instead.
• Choose water-resistant instead of water-proof products if possible.
• Steer clear of stain-repellant sprays and treatments.
• Don’t buy food in grease-resistant containers and avoid containers with waxy inner coatings such as microwave popcorn bags.
• Skip the spray wax at the car wash.
• Trade your easy glide floss for a floss that is PFAS-free