PFOA and PFOS are man-made chemicals used in various products to simplify life.
Forever chemicals, also known as synthetic chemicals called PFAS, have gained recognition. Scientists created these chemicals to make products resistant to water, stains, and sticking. The United States initially utilized them in the 1950s.
DuPont introduced Teflon in the 1950s to help Americans have nonstick cookware and make their lives easier. Americans and people from other countries liked this new improvement and soon used these substances in many different products.
These chemicals are resistant to water and lipids, so they don't break down and last a long time in the environment.
Over time, companies have used these chemicals in manufacturing various products, such as firefighting foam, food packaging, and cosmetics. As a result, these chemicals have entered the air, water, soil, and food production. They discontinued the use of PFAS and their other compounds in the mid-1970s.
People believe that contamination has affected more than 7000 metric tons of Fluorochemicals. PFOAs and PFOS, which can cause various health problems, have exposed many Americans and people in the USA.
PFOA chemicals contaminated 1% of public drinking water supply systems in 2016. The EPA did not regulate safe levels of PFOA and PFOS in drinking water systems for many years.
The EPA provided health advice in 2009.
However, this advice was not legally binding. The advice said to stay below 400 ppt for PFOA and 200 ppt for PFOS when exposed to PFAs.
The EPA changed the guidelines in 2016. They originally set the guidelines in 2009. The purpose of the change was to warn cities.
The warning was about water quality and the levels of PFOA and PFOS in drinking water. The new guideline stated that having levels above 70 ppt is unsafe. These chemicals are on the EPA’s list of “unregulated contaminants” that the EPA monitors.
Groups like OHAT, NIEHS, and NTP have warned about the dangers of PFOA and PFOS chemicals on animals and humans. Due to slow data collection and evaluation, Government agencies are taking action based on previously overlooked health studies.
Exposure to PFAs and PFOS can cause various health issues.
These include developmental issues in children, cancer, liver damage, thyroid disorders, immune disorders, and heart concerns.
A 2007 study discovered that over 98% of Americans have detectable levels of PFOA and PFOS in their bloodstream. Stay informed about these hazards and their potential consequences to protect your health and well-being.
Government regulations have changed with more recent acceptance of the human impacts and health effects concerns. By 2024, the USA will require all municipalities to remove PFOA and PFOS from potable drinking water systems safely. Municipalities and their design consultants must begin focusing on solutions to meet these new regulations and guidelines.
Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) in 1974 and amended it in 1986 and 1996. It protects our nation's drinking water. Its primary objective is to ensure that the water we consume meets high-quality standards and remains free from harmful contaminants.
The EPA is responsible for establishing and upholding the standards for drinking water quality.
The SDWA outlines these standards. The EPA diligently oversees states, local authorities, and water suppliers, who enforce these standards at the local level with trust. This collaborative approach ensures that communities across the country have access to safe and clean drinking water.
The EPA has set limits for over 90 contaminants in public drinking water to reach its goal. These MCLs establish the maximum allowable concentrations of various substances to protect human health. Water suppliers must follow the rules set by the SDWA to ensure they provide safe water to the public. Maintaining
The SDWA covers many harmful substances, including metals, pollutants, and germs, that can make people sick. This thorough coverage adequately addresses and mitigates numerous factors influencing water quality.
The SDWA plays a pivotal role in preventing waterborne illnesses and protecting public health by continually monitoring and regulating water systems. The SDWA is important for keeping our drinking water safe as new threats and knowledge about water contaminants develop.
The SDWA's robust standards and monitoring processes are essential to instilling confidence in the safety of our water sources. By following these rules, we all help create a better, more lasting future for our communities and the environment. DeLoach Industries has been creating water filters and treatment systems for 65 years. Over a decade ago, they began working on new technologies.
These water treatment technologies, like reverse osmosis RO effectively remove PFOA and PFOS from the drinking water systems they produce. As a result, they meet EPA guidelines. These technologies effectively remove PFOA and PFOS from the drinking water systems they produce, meeting EPA guidelines.
If you need help removing PFOA or PFOS from your water system, contact DeLoach Industries. They can assist with design, manufacturing, and installation. DeLoach Industries Inc. 941-371-4995.
