The EPA’s approval of new PFAS testing methods empowers our Florida PFAS remediation specialists to assess your site’s contamination status swiftly. By utilizing these tests, we ensure compliance and prevent operational disruptions for your business.
PFAS, also known as per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, have garnered the nickname “forever chemicals” due to their extraordinary persistence in the environment and resistance to degradation over time. PFAS are highly stable and resistant to natural processes, and they accumulate in the environment and living organisms. This enduring characteristic raises concerns about the long-term health and environmental impacts of PFAS exposure.
PFAS substances excel in repelling liquids, preventing sticking, and enhancing fire suppression in everyday items such as cookware, clothing, and fire extinguishers. However, their persistence in the environment and detrimental effects on human health and ecosystems warrant concern. Our Florida PFAS remediation team uses the latest testing methods to clean up sites across the state.
The Challenge of PFAS
The unique properties that make PFAS useful also render them challenging to eliminate. Expert remediation becomes essential once these substances infiltrate groundwater, wastewater, or drinking water.
At Creative Environmental Solutions, Inc. (CES), we leverage our comprehensive expertise in geological, environmental, and engineering services to provide effective Florida PFAS remediation solutions. With decades of experience, CES emerges as a trusted partner renowned for its expertise and reliability throughout Florida and the Southeastern region.
New Testing Methods
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) introduced new testing methods to address PFAS contamination, providing valuable tools for remediation efforts.
Method 1621 serves as an initial screening tool, rapidly detecting a wide range of organofluorine compounds in wastewater at very low levels. While it may not precisely identify the types or quantities of PFAS present, it flags samples with potentially concerning levels of organofluorines, signaling the need for further investigation.
In contrast, Method 1633 offers a more comprehensive approach. It tests for 40 PFAS analytes across various environmental matrices, including wastewater, surface water, groundwater, soil, biosolids, sediment, landfill leachate, and fish tissue.
Published in January 2024, Method 1633 caters to diverse applications, including for National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits, and features varying sampling procedures tailored to different sample types. With method detection limits ranging from 0.32 to 9.59 ng/L for water samples,
Method 1633 equips our Florida PFAS remediation professionals with precise analytical capabilities to address PFAS contamination across multiple environmental settings.
PFAS Contamination In The News
A recent case concerning the PFAS levels at a Florida prison has highlighted contamination risks. The study reveals that PFAS, originating from nearby Florida State Fire College, has infiltrated the well water at Lowell Correctional Institution.
The dangerous chemicals used in firefighting foam have been phased out due to their classification as carcinogens. They are associated with various health concerns, including cancer, thyroid disorders, compromised immune function, and menstrual irregularities.
Despite knowledge of potential harm, authorities permitted these women to continue consuming water from the contaminated well for an extended period. This failure to address the contamination promptly underscores the critical importance of implementing robust PFAS remediation strategies to safeguard public health. It also highlights the need for greater awareness and accountability in managing PFAS contamination to mitigate health risks.
Testing, Regulations, and Acceptable PFAS Levels
Federal environmental regulators are proposing a legally enforceable limit for PFAS chemicals in drinking water, aiming to set a threshold of 4 parts per trillion. This standard, roughly equivalent to four drops of water in 20 Olympic-sized swimming pools, reflects a stringent approach to safeguarding public health.
In contrast, Florida’s health standards, developed with input from University of Florida researchers, have set a limit of 70 parts per trillion for PFAS contamination in groundwater cleanup efforts. While still aiming to ensure safety, this level represents a more lenient approach compared to the proposed federal guideline.
Our Expert Florida PFAS Remediation Strategies
At CES, we approach PFAS remediation with a comprehensive and effective strategy tailored to each unique situation. Leveraging our expertise in environmental consulting and remediation, we use advanced techniques and state-of-the-art equipment to address PFAS contamination at its source.
The first step is a thorough site assessment, including detailed sampling and analysis to identify the extent of PFAS contamination. We create a customized ESA report and remediation plan based on our findings that may include soil excavation, groundwater treatment, or in-situ chemical oxidation.
We prioritize safety, environmental sustainability, and regulatory compliance throughout the remediation process, ensuring that all actions follow federal and state guidelines. CES is committed to providing innovative and reliable solutions to mitigate PFAS contamination and keep your business compliant.
Contact our Florida PFAS remediation team for more information.