The presence of PFAS in drinking water in Pennsylvania is a growing concern for residents who seek to ensure the safety and quality of their water supply. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are man-made chemicals that have been linked to numerous adverse health effects.
PFAS in drinking water is a growing concern in Pennsylvania, with about one-third of the 114 water systems tested revealing the presence of these toxic chemicals. To protect public health, the state established PFAS drinking water standards: for PFOA the limit is 14 ng/L, and for PFOS, it is 18 ng/L.
In this article, we will delve into the issue of PFAS contamination in Pennsylvania’s water sources, explore the potential health risks, and discuss the ongoing efforts to monitor and remediate affected areas. Additionally, we will provide guidance for residents to stay informed and take appropriate measures to protect their drinking water.
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PFAS in Pennsylvania Drinking Water
What Cities Have PFAS in Drinking Water?
PFAS contamination in drinking water has been detected across various cities and counties in Pennsylvania. About one-third of the 114 water systems tested in the state were found to have PFAS chemicals over a 17-month sampling period. However, it’s important to note that none of these systems exceeded the federal health advisory levels for PFOA and PFOS, two of the most common PFAS chemicals.
Some of the highest PFAS concentrations have been found in Berks, Bucks, and Montgomery counties. A few examples of cities and water systems with notable PFAS levels in their drinking water include:
- Christman Lake Water System in Berks County
- Doylestown Borough Water Department in Bucks County
- Audubon Water Co. in Montgomery County
In addition to these counties, PFAS chemicals have also been detected in Chester, Columbia, Delaware, Lancaster, Lycoming, Monroe, Northampton, and Philadelphia counties.
| County | Water System | Combined PFOA & PFOS (ppt) |
| Berks | Christman Lake Water System | 66 |
| Bucks | Doylestown Borough Water Dept | 25 |
| Montgomery | Audubon Water Co. | 25 |
PFAS contamination sites in Pennsylvania
The following table highlights PFAS contamination sites in Pennsylvania by county.
| County | PFAS Contamination Sites | |
| Allegheny | Pittsburgh Air National Guard Base
Pittsburgh Air Reserve Station |
|
| Bucks | Boarhead Farms NPL Site
ChemFab NPL Site Easton Road HSCA Site Former Naval Air Warfare Center – Warminster (NPL Site) Neshaminy Creek Watershed Ridge Run HSCA Site Watson Johnson Landfill NPL Site |
|
| Centre | Benner Township HSCA Site
Penn State Former Fire Training Site |
|
| Chester | Bishop Tube HSCA Site
National Foam Old Wilmington Road NPL Site |
|
| Cumberland | Naval Support Activity (NSA) Mechanicsburg | |
| Crawford | Saegertown PFAS Site | |
| Dauphin | Fort Indiantown Gap
Susquehanna Area Regional Airport Authority (HIA) Site |
|
| Delaware | Lower Darby Creek NPL Site | |
| Franklin | Letterkenny Army Depot NPL Site | |
| Lebanon | Fort Indiantown Gap | |
| Lehigh | High Quality Plating HSCA Site
Rodale Manufacturing NPL Site |
|
| Luzerne | Valmont TCE NPL Site | |
| Lycoming | AVCO-Lycoming NPL Site | |
| Mercer | Osborne Landfill NPL Site | |
| Monroe | Tobyhanna Army Depot TCE NPL Site | |
| Montgomery | Boyertown Landfill
Former Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Willow Grove – Horsham (NPL Site) Horsham Air National Guard Station Neshaminy Creek Watershed North Penn Area #2 NPL Site North Penn Area #5 NPL Site North Penn US Army Reserve Center (Nike PH 91 – Launch) |
|
| Philadelphia | Former Philadelphia Energy Solutions Refinery Complex
Philadelphia Naval Complex Site |
|
| Schuylkill | Frackville Area HSCA Site | |
| York | Newberry Township HSCA Site |
What is Pennsylvania Doing About PFAS Contamination?
In response to the growing concern of PFAS contamination in drinking water, Pennsylvania has taken decisive action to address the issue. Some of the key steps taken include:
- Establishing maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and maximum contaminant level goals (MCLGs) for PFOA and PFOS, two common PFAS chemicals.
- Implementing monitoring requirements for different types of public water systems.
- Enforcing compliance with the MCLs based on a running annual average (RAA) at each entry point (EP) to the distribution system.
Overview of PFAS
What are PFAS?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals that have been widely used in various industries since the 1940s. PFAS are known for their ability to resist heat, water, and oil, making them ideal for a wide range of applications, such as:
- Non-stick cookware
- Stain-resistant carpets and fabrics
- Water-resistant clothing
- Food packaging materials
- Firefighting foams
There are thousands of different PFAS chemicals, but two of the most common and well-studied are perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS).
How do PFAS Get into Drinking Water?
PFAS can enter drinking water sources through various pathways, including:
- Industrial releases: Factories that produce or use PFAS may release these chemicals into the environment, contaminating nearby water sources.
- Firefighting foams: Aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) containing PFAS are often used to extinguish fires, especially at airports and military bases. These foams can seep into groundwater or run off into surface waters, leading to contamination.
- Landfills: PFAS-containing products may end up in landfills, where the chemicals can leach into the soil and eventually reach groundwater sources.
- Wastewater treatment plants: Some PFAS chemicals are not fully removed during the wastewater treatment process and can be discharged into rivers and streams.
| Source of PFAS Contamination | Contaminated Water Sources |
| Industrial releases | Groundwater, surface water |
| Firefighting foams | Groundwater, surface water |
| Landfills | Groundwater |
| Wastewater treatment plants | Surface water |
Health Effects of PFAS
Exposure to PFAS chemicals has been linked to a variety of adverse health effects. According to WebMD, some of the potential health risks associated with PFAS exposure include:
- Increased risk of cancer, particularly kidney and testicular cancers
- Hormone disruption
- Immune system suppression
- High cholesterol levels
- Developmental issues in infants and children
- Interference with the body’s natural hormones
- Adverse effects on liver and thyroid function
It’s important to note that not all PFAS chemicals have the same level of toxicity or potential for harm, and more research is needed to fully understand the long-term health effects of PFAS exposure.
PFAS Drinking Water Standards
Drinking water standards play a crucial role in ensuring public health, as they provide a benchmark for acceptable levels of potentially harmful contaminants in our water and food. With that in mind, let’s examine the standards set for PFAS in drinking water, both in Pennsylvania and at the federal level.
What is the Standard for PFAS in Drinking Water in Pennsylvania?
As mentioned earlier, Pennsylvania has established maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and maximum contaminant level goals (MCLGs) for two common PFAS chemicals: PFOA and PFOS. The MCLs and MCLGs, expressed in nanograms per liter (ng/L) or parts per trillion (ppt), are as follows:
- PFOA: MCLG 8 ng/L or ppt; MCL 14 ng/L or ppt
- PFOS: MCLG 14 ng/L or ppt; MCL 18 ng/L or ppt
These standards apply to all public water systems in Pennsylvania, with specific monitoring requirements depending on the type of water system.
What is the EPA Drinking Water Standard for PFAS?
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not yet established enforceable regulatory standards for PFAS in drinking water. However, in 2016, the EPA issued a combined lifetime Health Advisory Level (HAL) of 70 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA and PFOS. This HAL is not an enforceable regulatory standard but serves as a guideline for assessing potential risks associated with PFAS exposure.
In the summer of 2022, the EPA modified its health advisory and published interim HALs for PFOA (0.004 ppt) and PFOS (0.02 ppt), reflecting new scientific findings on the potential negative health effects of these chemicals even at very low levels. It’s important to note that these near-zero levels are below current detection capabilities. For more information on the EPA’s efforts to regulate PFAS, visit their website.
What Can I Do About PFAS?
Drinking water standards are important because they represent the consensus opinion about how much of a dangerous contaminant we can safely consume. They help us understand just how safe (or dangerous) our water and food are. With this in mind, let’s explore what actions you can take to protect yourself and your family from PFAS in your drinking water.
PFAS Treatment Methods for Homeowners
If you’re concerned about PFAS in your drinking water, there are several treatment methods available for homeowners to reduce or remove these contaminants. Some of the most effective treatment options include:
- Activated carbon filtration: This method uses granular or block carbon filters to adsorb PFAS from water. It is one of the most common and affordable options for treating PFAS-contaminated water in residential settings.
- Reverse osmosis: This process involves forcing water through a semipermeable membrane, which filters out contaminants like PFAS. Reverse osmosis systems can be more expensive than activated carbon filters, but they tend to be highly effective at removing PFAS.
- Ion exchange: This method uses a specialized resin to capture and remove PFAS from water. Ion exchange systems can be effective at treating PFAS contamination, but they may require more maintenance compared to other treatment options.
It’s essential to consult with a water treatment professional to determine the best option for your specific situation.
How to Test for PFAS
To test your water for PFAS, you can:
- Contact your local water provider and request information about PFAS testing and results in your area.
- Hire a certified laboratory to perform PFAS testing on a water sample from your home. Keep in mind that testing for PFAS can be expensive, so it’s essential to research the costs involved before proceeding.
Stay Informed
Staying informed about PFAS in drinking water is crucial for protecting your health and the health of your family. Here are some steps you can take to stay informed:
- Regularly check for updates from your local water provider regarding PFAS testing and results.
- Visit the EPA’s website for the latest information on PFAS regulation and research.
- Follow news and developments about PFAS contamination in Pennsylvania and nationwide to understand the broader context of this issue.
FAQs
What states have the worst PFAS?
While PFAS contamination is a nationwide concern, some states have reported higher levels of contamination. Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania are among the states with more severe contamination issues. However, it’s crucial to remember that contamination levels can vary significantly within a state, and local water quality should be the primary concern.
How do I know if there are PFAS in my water?
To find out if there are PFAS in your drinking water, you can check the Consumer Confidence Report provided by your local water supplier. This report contains information about the water quality, including the presence of contaminants such as PFAS. If you have a private well, you can have your water tested by a certified laboratory specializing in PFAS analysis.
Here is a helpful resource on testing your water for PFAS.
Where is PFAS found in the United States?
PFAS contamination can be found across the United States. The chemicals have been used in various industries and products, leading to their widespread presence. PFAS are often found near industrial sites, military bases, and wastewater treatment plants, where they may have been used in firefighting foam or discharged as a byproduct of manufacturing processes. Contamination can also occur due to the use of PFAS-containing consumer products, such as non-stick cookware and stain-resistant carpets.
Final Take
Understanding and addressing PFAS contamination in drinking water is crucial for the health and safety of Pennsylvania residents. The state has taken significant steps to establish and enforce maximum contaminant levels for PFAS chemicals, demonstrating its commitment to protecting public health.
It is essential for residents to stay informed, test their water if necessary, and take appropriate measures to ensure the safety of their drinking water. By working together, we can ensure that our water supply remains free of harmful contaminants and protect the health of our communities.