PFAS Explained
What are PFAS?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are manufactured chemicals found in the blood of animals and humans worldwide due to their widespread use and persistence in the environment. Although there are thousands of different PFAS, only some have been studied more extensively than others.
Are PFAS safe?
Research on PFAS is ongoing, but studies have shown that even at low levels, PFAS can cause health risks. Exposure to certain levels of PFAS may lead to:
Cancer Effects
Weight Effects
Immune Effects
Developmental Effects
Reproductive Effects
Where are PFAS found?
A person can be exposed to PFAS in various ways, including touching, drinking, eating, and breathing in materials containing them. Most people in the United States have been exposed to some PFAS since they can be found in drinking water, waste sites, consumer products, food packaging, food, and other sources.
What is being done to protect people and the environment from PFAS?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken several steps to protect people and the environment from PFAS contamination. Their continued research, prevention, and remediation efforts have been their primary goals.
What is ERG’s role when it comes to PFAS?
ERG’s environmental professionals offer the experience necessary, along with excellent quality assurance and control, to effectively manage PFAS issues. The remediation of PFAS in water or soil requires state-of-the-art technology, or in many cases, a combination of new and existing technologies. Effective remediation techniques include: Adsorption, Ion Exchange Resins, Membrane Filtration, Thermal Treatments, and Stabilization or Immobilization. ERG has completed many PFAS investigations at commercial and industrial properties and has provided design services to remove PFAS in landfill leachate since early 2018.