EPA Sets Limits for PFAS in Drinking Water

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently passed a National Primary Drinking Water Regulation, which set legally-enforceable maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for six per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) compounds.

These levels for PFOA and PFOS are set at four parts per trillion (ppt), and 10 ppt for the four remaining compounds. The rule requires public water systems to conduct initial monitoring of PFAS levels in the next three years and, if necessary, implement solutions to reduce levels in the next five years. Beginning in 2029, public water systems must comply with MCLs and provide public notification of a violation.

The EPA also designated PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA or Superfund). This rule creates reporting requirements for the release of these two PFAS compounds into the environment. Effective immediately, entities will be required to report releases of PFOA and PFOS that meet and/or exceed a reportable quantity of one pound within a 24-hour period. This hazardous substance designation also enables the EPA to recover cleanup costs from potential responsible parties (PRPs). Legislation has been introduced to protect passive receivers, specifically water systems, from Superfund liability for PFAS contamination (The Water Systems PFAS Liability Protections Act, H.R. 7944).

TRSA is closely monitoring regulatory and legislative action around PFAS as it relates to the linen, uniform and facility services industry. TRSA’s government relations staff is working with members of Congress and regulators to ensure policymakers understand that laundry operators are mere passthrough entities, and to secure financial incentives to support a partnership with our industry to help with PFAS remediation.

Click here to read more. Questions? Contact TRSA’s Vice President of Government Relations Kevin Schwalb at kschwalb@trsa.org.