Water is indispensable in our daily routines, serving a multitude of purposes from hydration and hygiene to recreational activities. It's not only vital for individual households but also for public entities such as local governments and various organizations. However, the integrity of both private and public water systems is at risk due to the infiltration of hazardous synthetic compounds, introduced by chemical manufacturers in the mid-20th century. These substances are prevalent in numerous consumer goods, ranging from food packaging and paper product coatings to household textiles and nonstick kitchenware.
The widespread use of PFAS, known for their robust oil, water, and stain repelling properties, is particularly concerning. These persistent chemicals pose a significant environmental challenge as they resist natural degradation. Consequently, when discharged into aquatic ecosystems, including rivers, lakes, and ultimately groundwater, PFAS have the potential to build up to harmful concentrations over time.
For 22+ years, Engineering Performance Solutions has consistently delivered top-tier PFOA testing services to clientele across various industries in the United States. Serving entities from local governmental bodies and municipal departments to engineering consultancies and pharmaceutical laboratories, our accredited professionals are equipped with the necessary skills and state-of-the-art apparatus to conduct comprehensive testing for per-fluoroalkyl substances and polyfluoroalkyl substances, ensuring the highest standards of quality and reliability.
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) testing is a critical process in environmental and health safety due to the persistent nature of PFOA and related per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These chemicals, often referred to as 'forever chemicals', have been widely used for their resistance to heat, water, and oil, particularly in non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, and some firefighting foams. However, their stability means they do not break down easily in the environment or the human body, leading to potential health risks such as cancer and liver damage. Testing for PFOA involves analyzing soil, water, and other products using advanced technology to detect the presence of these substances at levels as low as parts per trillion.
Recent developments include the launch of consumer-initiated blood tests with physician consultation, allowing individuals at risk of high exposure to assess their PFAS levels and discuss the implications with a healthcare professional. Moreover, toxicity assessments provide hazard identification and derive toxicity values to guide safety standards and regulatory measures.
As awareness of the dangers of PFAS grows, the importance of accurate PFOA testing and the development of new methodologies to assess exposure and risk cannot be overstated. For information about our water testing and analysis services or to schedule a test, we encourage you to contact us today!
ENGINEERING PERFORMANCE SOLUTIONS, LLC
3161 St. Johns Bluff Rd. S. Suite 3, Jacksonville, FL 32246 • 855-338-7770 • Email: info@epslabs.com