The EPA is becoming increasingly concerned about PFAS, dangerous chemicals found in various products that cause chronic health problems. 

Many suppliers are starting to require businesses to ensure they don’t have PFAS in their products.   

Find out if your company is at risk and how CDMS can help.   

Pfas Testing 

CDMS is now offering testing for per and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS. PFAS are a group of widely used, persistent chemicals with adverse environmental and health implications. Over the last few months, we have seen a huge increase in the need for PFAS testing due to the EPA’s increased concern and commitment to lower its levels in consumer products.   

 

Why is this important? 

PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” have raised growing concerns due to their widespread use, long-lasting nature, and potential health effects on humans and animals. These chemicals can be found in various products, from consumer goods to industrial applications, making them challenging to study comprehensively. PFAS have been detected in water, air, fish, soil, and even the blood of individuals worldwide. 

Scientific studies have indicated potential links between PFAS exposure and adverse health effects, emphasizing the urgency to better understand and address these substances. 

 

EPA’s Recent Action: 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken significant steps to address the PFAS issue. Recently, EPA finalized a rule that improves reporting on PFAS to the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI). This rule removes an exemption that allowed facilities to avoid reporting PFAS when used in small concentrations. This change ensures more comprehensive data on PFAS, fostering transparency and public awareness. 

EPA’s efforts are aligned with the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to addressing the impacts of PFAS, as outlined in EPA’s PFAS Strategic Roadmap. 

 

EPA Identified Common Sources: 

• Drinking Water: An important potential source of PFAS exposure.  
• Waste Site: Soil and water at or near landfills, disposal sites, and hazardous waste sites.  
• Fire Extinguishing: Foam Used in training and emergency response events at airports and firefighting training facilities.  
• Facilities: Chrome plating, electronics, and certain textile and paper manufacturers that produce or use PFAS.  
• Consumer Products: Stain-or water-repellent, or non-stick products, paints, sealants, and some personal care products.  
• Food Packaging: Grease-resistant paper, microwave popcorn bags, pizza boxes, and candy wrappers.  
• Biosolids: Fertilizer from wastewater treatment plants used on agricultural lands can affect ground and surface water.  
• Food: Fish caught from water contaminated by PFAS and dairy products from livestock exposed to PFAS. 

 

CDMS’s Role: 

Our decision to include PFAS sampling in our services reflects our dedication to environmental stewardship and the well-being of our clients. We recognize the importance of proactively addressing PFAS, and we aim to contribute to a cleaner and safer environment. We look forward to working with you to make a positive impact on the environment and public health.  Please reach out to service@cdms.com to schedule PFAS testing for any of your raw materials or products.