Are PFAS harmful?
Are PFAS and Forever Chemicals harmful?
The widespread presence of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) has become a significant environmental and public health concern. Because of their remarkable durability and varied uses in modern society, prevalence in industrial processes and consumer products, these “Forever Chemicals” are now being detected across numerous environments, highlighting just how widespread they have become.
While the scientific community is still working to fully understand the effects of all individual PFAS chemicals, data on their potential toxicity remains limited. However, extensive research on some of the earliest and most widely used PFAS, specifically Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid (PFOS), has revealed concerning associations with adverse health impacts in both animal and human studies when exposure levels are sufficient. This growing body of evidence has led to significant regulatory actions, resulting in the restricted use of these particular substances across various global markets, including here in England and Wales under UK REACH – our national framework for chemical regulations.
Assessing the Risk
Due to the potential long-term negative impact on the environment, The Environment Agency (EA) in England is actively monitoring PFAS as part of its ongoing groundwater quality surveillance. Similarly, water companies are consistently testing raw water sources for a range of these compounds. The Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI), the independent regulator for drinking water quality in England and Wales, is working closely with water companies to deepen our understanding of where specific PFAS are found, what types are present and at what concentrations.
These PFAS substances can enter our water systems through various ways, often stemming from industrial activities that rely on these chemicals to produce everything from non-stick coatings to specialised firefighting foams. Although drinking water is one source of exposure, it is not exclusive. PFAS can also be encountered through a wide array of other methods such as various consumer products and certain foods.
Ensuring Safe Drinking Water
In England & Wales, water companies operate under a fundamental duty to provide ‘wholesome’ water – meaning it must be clean, safe and pleasant to drink.
Currently, there are no statutory standards for PFAS in drinking water, nor has this been established at international level.
Despite the absence of formal standards worldwide, The DWI has a adopted a proactive and precautionary approach, involving a a series of guidelines that water companies are expected to adhere to. These guidelines are designed to prioritise public health and safety, even as the scientific understanding of PFAS evolves.
Other risks & What is being done?
PFAS not only contaminate our water supply, but because of their persistence in the environment, they are also prevalent in:
- Food
- Consumer products
As they have such a high prevalence, governments and international bodies are stepping up efforts to regulate and restrict PFAS. Many of the the most notorious PFAS such as PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid) and PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid) have been largely phased out of production. There has also been a move towards broader restrictions through regulatory bodies such as UK REACH and DWI.
Significant investment is going into developing and testing PFAS-free alternatives for various applications, especially in critical applications, where replacements are challenging to find.
E&OE. This information was gathered by our manufacturing partners. For more information, visit www.dwi.gov.uk.