PFOA and PFOS are man-made chemicals that have been used in a wide range of industrial and consumer products for several decades. These chemicals are part of a larger group of compounds known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are known for their heat, water, and stain-resistant properties.
However, recent studies have shown that PFOA and PFOS can be dangerous to human health and the environment. These chemicals are highly resistant to degradation, which means that they can remain in the environment for long periods and accumulate in the bodies of humans and animals.
PFOA and PFOS have been linked to several adverse health effects, including
- Cancer
- Liver damage
- Thyroid disorders
- Immune system disruption
They have also been shown to affect the growth and development of fetuses and breastfed infants.
The potential dangers of PFOA and PFOS have led to increased regulatory efforts in recent years. In the United States, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed Section 8(a)(7) to the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). This proposal requires manufacturers to report their use of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) dating back to 2011. The reporting covers PFAS uses, volumes, disposal methods, exposures, and hazards. The obligation to report also extends to imported materials.
In addition, the EPA has initiated several actions to address PFAS contamination, including setting new standards for drinking water and conducting research to better understand the health effects of these chemicals.
As of 2022, over 30 states in the United States have created or proposed legislation that regulates PFAS substances. For example, the state of Maine, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Colorado, and Wisconsin, have enacted or proposed legislation to regulate PFAS substances. These state regulations often mirror the proposed TSCA reporting requirements and include measures to address PFAS contamination and product usage.(https://www.acquiscompliance.com/blog/Maine-State-Reporting-PFAS-Containing-Products-2023). This legislation is aimed at addressing the potential health and environmental impacts of these chemicals and promoting their responsible use.
- California's AB 2247 mandates annual reporting to a public database on PFAS-containing products or components sold or imported into the state.
- Maine's Title 38 §1614 requires reporting of products containing intentionally added PFAS substances and prohibits the sale of specific PFAS-containing products.
- New Hampshire's HB 1589 bans the sale of intentionally-added PFAS and requires warning labels on products containing PFAS.
- Colorado's HB22-1345 establishes a regulatory framework for collecting information on PFAS chemical usage and phases out the sale of intentionally added PFAS chemicals.
- Wisconsin's Attorney General is pursuing lawsuits against companies suspected of causing PFAS contamination.
Despite these efforts, PFOA and PFOS are still present in many products and the environment. Some common sources of exposure include drinking water, food, and consumer products that contain PFAS.
To protect yourself and your family from PFOA and PFOS, it's important to be aware of their potential risks and take steps to minimize your exposure. This may include using a water filter to remove PFAS from your drinking water, avoiding products that contain PFAS, and supporting efforts to reduce PFAS pollution in the environment.