What are PFAS?
Per- and poly- fluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are a group of man-made chemical compounds that do not break down in the environment. They are used in many commercial products including non-stick coatings, firefighting foams, and waterproof products. Emerging data suggests that PFAS are widespread in the environment, and they have been linked to harmful health impacts. The regulatory environment for PFAS is developing rapidly. On March 14th, 2023, EPA proposed the first drinking water standards for six common PFAS. These regulations are projected to go into effect by the end of 2023.
Should I have my well water tested for PFAS?
There is not enough data yet to know whether PFAS should be a major concern for Wake County well users. The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) is collecting new groundwater data statewide that will yield new data over the coming year.
Deliberate and routine water quality testing is important to protect your health and the health of your well. Private well users often pursue testing when there is some visible water issue such as water discoloration or odor, or when specific contaminants (like PFAS) are highlighted in the news. However, testing only for one or two compounds won’t give you a complete picture of your drinking water, and may give you a false sense of security.
Recommendation for Complete Picture of Your Water
Wake County has developed well testing recommendations (at www.wake.gov/wells) based on current guidance from the DHHS and a review of over 15 years’ worth of Wake County’s data from private well testing. These recommendations are a cost-effective approach to gaining confidence in the safety of your well water. Our existing testing recommendations do not currently include PFAS, but PFAS concerns can be addressed through a tiered approach to well testing:
- Follow Wake County’s current well testing recommendations at www.wake.gov/wells:
- First Timer’s Package for all well users
- First Timer’s Package plus Rads Package for the eastern half of Wake County
- Address any issues uncovered by these tests. If installing treatment, consider options that are known to also remove PFAS.
- If no treatment is needed for other parameters, review DHHS guidance to determine whether PFAS testing and/or treatment is appropriate on a case-by-case basis.
- For those who choose to have PFAS testing, contact WCES for assistance in understanding results.
- We will continue to track this issue and update our recommendations as information emerges. Please contact Rachael McCaully at Rachael.McCaully@wake.gov with questions.
Additional PFAS Resources
PFAS testing is available from commercial labs, and there are filtration options for PFAS that balance cost and effectiveness. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) PFAS guidance provides information for testing and treatment, and also notes the importance of regularly testing wells for a range of possible contaminants.
PFAS Fact Sheet
PFAS Testing and Filtration
PFAS Memo for Clinicians