February 14, 2019 – Andrew Wheeler, the acting administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), announced a set of comprehensive actions to address the presence of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in the environment. The actions will provide a framework for the future monitoring, detection, and clean-up of PFAS and leverage multiple programs and disciplines. In the absence of EPA guidance, several states have taken their own stance on PFAS in recent years, leading to a variety of strategies, toxicity limits, and monitoring requirements. By taking the steps announced, the EPA intends to provide a consistent framework that will assist states, tribes, and communities in addressing PFAS concerns. The actions announced by EPA include commitments to:
- Establish a drinking water MCL for PFOA and PFOS
- Designate PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances
- Develop groundwater cleanup recommendations
- Evaluate including PFAS in Toxic Release Inventory
- Evaluate prohibiting the use of some PFAS
- Monitor drinking water at lower concentrations and for more compounds than in previous studies
- Develop analytical methods for a wide variety of matrices
- Utilize enforcement tools to address PFAS exposure
- Develop a risk communication toolbox
Pace Analytical has years of experience testing PFAS under EPA’s Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule as well as a variety of state-specific programs. We recently made a significant investment to expand our capabilities and capacity, including new instruments, personnel, and a mobile laboratory. We look forward to supporting you in a future investigation and monitoring programs. For additional information about our PFAS offerings, please visit our website or speak directly to one of our knowledgeable Program Managers:
Paul Jackson
(813) 731-1595
paul.jackson@pacelabs.com
Additional information on EPA’s announcement, including the full text of the plan, timeline, and a Fact Sheet, is located on EPA’s website here.