PFAS, the dangerous toxic forever chemical, may require laboratory testing from EPA approved facilities in order to determine if it is in your drinking water at home, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. These approved laboratories will send homeowners an official water test kit that can be used to gather a sample of drinking water. From here, the homeowner can mail back the water test to the labs and await the results.
PFAS, known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are man-made chemicals that came about in the 1940s. There are more than 4,700 chemicals within PFAS, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG). These dangerous chemicals are linked to cancers, developmental effects, thyroid issues, and more.
Exposure to PFAS Chemical and Steps for Reducing Contamination
There are many ways in which humans can be exposed to PFAS, one of which is via drinking water. The EWG has also reported that 110 million Americans could be affected by PFAS contaminated water.
Once you have identified PFAS in your drinking water, there are several steps you can take to address the matter. For instance, you can start to use a PFAS water filter for your tap water, known as a reverse osmosis filter. You may also begin communications with your state or local health department to address the issue of PFAS levels in your drinking water supply.
EPA Validated PFAS Water Testing Methods
The EPA abides by three PFAS testing methods that are also used by government and private laboratories to detect the chemicals in drinking water. These methods are known as:
- Method 533
- Method 537.1
- Method 537
When wondering if there are PFAS in my drinking water, you can begin by contacting your state to find certified laboratories testing PFAS in tap water. The EPA recommends that when homeowners look to test their drinking water for PFAS contamination levels, they should use an EPA validated testing method, such as the three listed above.
Removing PFAS From Your Contaminated Drinking Water
When looking to remove PFAS from your contaminated drinking water, homeowners may use a reverse osmosis filter and an activated carbon filter, according to the EWG. These filters can be placed under your sink or in your tap. The EWG also advises that an “inexpensive conductivity meter” can be used to determine if your filters are working.
As you consider a filter, be sure to research whether it has been used to test for PFOS, PFOA, and other PFAS chemicals that may be in your water. Filter tests have also been conducted by state agencies, such as:
- Michigan’s Drinking Water and Municipal Assistance Division
- Minnesota Department of Health
- New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services
- New York State Department of Health
Learn More About Your Rights to File a Claim Due to PFAS Exposure
If you have been exposed to PFAS, you may be entitled to financial compensation through a class-action lawsuit. At Pintas & Mullins, our team of PFAS contamination lawyers can study your PFAS case to determine if you are eligible for a claim. To learn more about your legal recourse opportunities when exposed to PFAS, contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm either online by completing a free case evaluation form or by calling (800) 794-0444.