Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as “forever chemicals,” are a group of man-made compounds widely used for their water and stain-resistant properties.
These substances are common in various industrial and consumer products like firefighting foams, non-stick cookware, and water-repellent fabrics.
Despite their utility, PFAS do not break down in the environment and have been linked to numerous health risks such as cancer, liver damage, and immune system effects, making them a significant concern for drinking water safety.
Nova Analytic Labs specializes in the precise analysis of drinking water for PFAS. We support government agencies and public health organizations by providing rigorous testing services to ensure the safety and compliance of public water systems.
PFAS in drinking water refers to the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a group of synthetic chemicals, within public or private water supplies. These chemicals are extremely persistent in the environment and human body, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.” PFAS are not naturally occurring and enter water sources through various means, such as industrial discharge, the use of firefighting foams, and runoff from PFAS-containing products. Once in the water supply, these chemicals can be difficult to remove and may accumulate over time. The presence of PFAS in drinking water is concerning due to their potential links to a range of health issues, including cancer, hormone disruption, and immune system effects, making the monitoring and removal of these substances a priority for water safety.
Conducting PFAS water testing is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, due to their health risks, detecting PFAS compounds in drinking water supplies helps protect public health. Early detection can prevent long-term exposure and mitigate potential health impacts on communities. Secondly, PFAS testing is essential for regulatory compliance. Many regions have set guidelines or standards for allowable levels of PFAS in drinking water, necessitating regular testing to ensure these standards are met. Furthermore, testing provides data that can guide remediation and treatment strategies, helping water managers and public health officials make informed decisions about how to remove or reduce PFAS from the water supply. Overall, PFAS water testing is a vital component of managing water quality and protecting public health against the adverse effects of these persistent environmental pollutants.
PFAS contamination is typically localized around areas where these chemicals are manufactured or used extensively, such as industrial sites, airports, and military bases. However, they can migrate long distances through water sources and soil, posing a risk to wide-reaching water supplies. Given the health risks associated with PFAS, it’s crucial for water providers and regulatory bodies to conduct thorough testing to detect and manage these substances in drinking water.
Nova Analytic Labs plays a critical role in this process by providing state-of-the-art PFAS testing services. Our lab utilizes the latest scientific techniques to detect PFAS accurately, helping communities assess and mitigate risks associated with water contamination.
At Nova Analytic Labs, our PFAS testing process is designed to be thorough and effective. We use advanced analytical methods, primarily liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), recognized for its sensitivity and accuracy in detecting low levels of PFAS. This method allows us to identify a wide range of PFAS compounds, ensuring comprehensive testing results.
Nova Analytic Labs utilizes the most advanced EPA-approved methods to test for PFAS, ensuring high sensitivity and specificity. Our key testing methodologies include:
Recognizing the importance of reducing PFAS to safe levels, Nova Analytic Labs follows stringent safety standards, including NSF/ANSI Standard 53 and P473, specifically aimed at reducing PFOA and PFOS. These standards are critical benchmarks for our testing processes, ensuring that the water systems can implement effective PFAS mitigation strategies.
Nova Analytic Labs offers a range of PFAS testing services tailored to meet the needs of public water systems and government regulatory requirements:
Choosing Nova Analytic Labs for PFAS testing comes with numerous benefits:
Nova Analytic Labs is committed to assisting governments and public health agencies in safeguarding drinking water from PFAS contamination. Through our advanced testing services, expert guidance, and dedicated customer support, we help ensure that communities have access to safe and clean drinking water, free from the harmful effects of PFAS chemicals.
Our goal is to provide peace of mind through science, offering reliable, accurate, and timely testing solutions that protect public health and preserve our water resources for future generations.