PFAS are a diverse group of compounds resistant to heat, water, and oil. For decades, they have been used in hundreds of industrial applications and consumer products such as carpeting, apparel, upholstery, certain food paper wrappings, fire-fighting foams, and metal plating.
PFAS are bioaccumulative, meaning they build up in the bloodstream and tissue. Since at least the 80s, research has found links between PFOS and PFOA (2 common PFAS chemicals) and a number of health problems such as: chronic kidney disease, thyroid issues, certain types of cancers, etc. More recent research is establishing some of the same health issues with many other PFAS compounds, including those intended to replace PFOS and PFOA.
Industry is the most common source of PFAS
contamination - both the manufacturers of PFAS
chemicals and those that use them in the products they make. Because PFAS do not degrade naturally, PFAS chemicals can remain in the surrounding soil for decades.
There are a number of reasons to test for PFAS contamination. Here are seven.
For more insight on the latest issues related to PFAS, check out our Blog.
PFAS is often seen as unregulated, but that's not entirely true. To fully assess your local PFAS testing and reporting requirements, you need to look at three sources of guidance, standards, and regulations: the EPA, Congress, and the states in which you do business. The link below provides links to state-level PFAS guidance and standard operating procedures.
In this on-demand Technical and Regulatory Update, we cover the latest testing and regulatory requirements and answer questions from the audience.
Pace Analytical® has been an industry leader in persistent organic pollutant testing for over three decades and was one of the first commercial laboratories to analyze for PFAS compounds. As regulatory requirements and methodologies have evolved, we've responded. Today, Pace has the ability to analyze multiple matrices through our in-house national network of labs or on-site via PFAST®, the only certified PFAS mobile lab service in the industry.
Pace Analytical® has been an industry leader in persistent organic pollutant testing for over three decades, and we were one of the first commercial laboratories to analyze for PFAS compounds.
Pace maintains certifications and accreditations in every state that offers or requires them. We're also certified/accredited by NELAC, ISO, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Department of Energy (DOE).
The Pace Rapid Response Team can quickly respond to any emergency. Our team will coordinate sample container delivery, assist with technical information needed onsite, and ensure samples are delivered as quickly as possible to the appropriate Pace laboratory. In many cases, we can provide PFAS results in as little as 24 hours.
Our mobile lab is the only certified mobile lab in the industry capable of analyzing PFAS in the single-digit, parts-per-trillion range. This lab can identify PFAS plumes and source areas and provide fully defensible data, often with same-day results and at a lower cost than expedited services at other labs.
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The Environmental Protection Agency
Congress
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