Understanding PFAS and the New Regulations
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals that have been widely used in various industries around the globe since the 1940s. These substances are found in everything from non-stick cookware to water-repellent clothing, and they have been linked to serious health issues such as cancer, liver damage, and developmental problems. Due to their persistence in the environment and in the human body, they are often referred to as “forever chemicals.”
On April 10, 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the final National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) for six PFAS compounds. This significant regulatory step aims to protect approximately 100 million people from the adverse health effects of PFAS in drinking water, prevent thousands of deaths, and reduce tens of thousands of serious illnesses attributed to PFAS exposure.
Key Highlights of the Final PFAS Regulation
The EPA’s final rule sets legally enforceable levels, known as Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs), for six PFAS in drinking water:
- PFOA: 4.0 parts per trillion (ppt)
- PFOS: 4.0 ppt
- PFHxS: 10 ppt
- PFNA: 10 ppt
- HFPO-DA (GenX Chemicals): 10 ppt
- Mixtures of PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA, and PFBS: Hazard Index of 1
Public water systems are required to monitor these PFAS levels and provide information to the public starting in 2027. If the PFAS levels exceed these MCLs, water systems must implement reduction measures by 2029 and notify the public of any violations.
The Role of Shell Water Systems in Ensuring Safe Drinking Water
At Shell Water Systems, we are committed to providing residential water treatment and filtration systems that meet the highest standards of safety and effectiveness. With the new EPA regulations in place, it is more important than ever to ensure your home’s water supply is treated for harmful contaminants like PFAS.
Advanced Filtration Solutions
We provide state-of-the-art water filtration systems designed to reduce PFAS and other harmful substances. Our solutions include:
- Activated Carbon Filters: These filters are highly effective at removing PFAS by adsorbing the chemicals onto the surface of the carbon particles.
- Reverse Osmosis Systems: These systems force water through a semi-permeable membrane, effectively removing PFAS along with a wide range of other contaminants.
- Ion Exchange Resins: These are used in some advanced filtration systems to specifically target and remove PFAS from water.
Unprecedented Funding and Support
The EPA has also announced $1 billion in funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help states, territories, and private well owners implement PFAS testing and treatment. This funding is designed to assist communities in upgrading their water systems to comply with the new regulations and ensure access to clean, safe drinking water.
Take Action Today
The new EPA regulations mark a significant step forward in protecting public health from the dangers of PFAS contamination. At Shell Water Systems, we are ready to help you navigate these changes and provide you with the best solutions to ensure your water is safe and clean.
Contact us today to learn more about our advanced filtration systems. Together, we can protect your family’s health and contribute to a safer, healthier environment.
For more information about the EPA’s final PFAS regulations, visit the EPA’s official website.