Recently, homeowners in Hampstead, MD were notified that high levels of man-made chemicals, otherwise known as PFOA and PFOS, were detected in the local drinking water. These fluorinated organic chemicals have long been used in the manufacturing of consumer products, so most people have been exposed to them; however, the EPA has set a concentration limit of 70 parts per trillion (70PPT) for these particular substances.
Note: 70PPT is the health adversary set by the EPA—they say anything over that can potentially be dangerous. There have been reports in Hampstead exceeding this level.
Even for residents who were not notified, it is only natural to be concerned about the safety of your drinking water. Atlantic Blue Water Services is here to help inform about PFOAs, and to provide educational consultations to provide best in class solutions.
The Maryland Department of the Environment tested for PFAs, also known as polyfluoroalkyls, back in November of 2020, which found that one well exceeded the EPA’s lifetime health advisory level for both PFOA and PFOS. For the safety and well-being of all residents, the well has been taken out of service and notification letters have been sent out.
What Are PFOA and PFOs?
Both PFOA and PFOs are man-made chemicals that are in many different products and places. PFOAs are most frequently found in products that are heat, water, stain or grease resistant. It can also be found in water-repellent clothes, stain-resistant fabrics, cardboard packaging and foam that is used when fighting fires. PFOA is also one of the ingredients used when creating Teflon. Ironically, it was the fire department that led the Maryland Department of the Environment to test the water.
PFOS are similar to PFOA in that they are also used in repelling products. PFOs were originally developed to help reduce common problems such as staining shoes and pans that stick when cooking delicate foods like eggs.
Neither PFOA nor PFOs are produced in the United States anymore, but still are widely found in imported products. Because both PFOA and PFOs take a long time to naturally break down, exposure can be dangerous. In the past, exposure to animals and humans has led to a variety of serious health issues. These include developmental impacts on fetuses during pregnancy, cancer, liver damage, immune system damage and cholesterol changes. If you are concerned that you have been exposed and are experiencing a health effect, contact your doctor immediately.
What Should You Do If Your Home Was Impacted?
If your water was impacted by PFOA or PFOs, or if you are concerned it may have been, we have the treatment solutions to remove all PFOA and PFOs, as well as any other harmful substances from your water. Call Atlantic Blue Water Services for a free consolation at 410-840-BLUE.