Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are synthetic chemicals prized for their resilience to heat, water, and oil, making them prevalent in various industries worldwide, from firefighting foams to non-stick cookware. Yet, their durability and resistance to breakdown pose significant risks to both human health and the environment. Termed 'forever chemicals,' PFAS can accumulate in living organisms and drinking water, presenting persistent challenges.

Following on from our last Q+A, here are some more key PFAS questions that our experts have answered.

What are the primary sources of PFAS contamination in the environment?

PFAS contamination in the environment primarily originates from industrial facilities that manufacture or use PFAS, such as chemical plants, firefighting training sites using aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), wastewater treatment plants, and landfills. Consumer products like non-stick cookware, water-resistant clothing, and food packaging can also contribute to environmental contamination through use and disposal.

How do PFAS enter the human body?

PFAS can enter the human body through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal absorption. The most common route is through ingestion of contaminated food and water. PFAS can also be ingested through the consumption of fish and other animals exposed to PFAS, as well as through the use of consumer products that contain these chemicals. Inhalation of dust and particles containing PFAS and dermal exposure through contact with PFAS-containing products also contribute to human exposure.

A recent study by Oddný Ragnarsdóttir et al. shows the possibility of PFAS penetration through human skin, which can lead to PFAS entering the bloodstream. With potential health effects linked to PFAS, such as cancer, decreased immunity and impacts on liver function, this study may provide a stronger case to eliminate/restrict the use of PFAS.

What challenges do regulatory agencies face in addressing PFAS contamination?

Regulatory agencies face several challenges in addressing PFAS contamination, including:

1. Complexity and diversity of PFAS compounds: With thousands of different PFAS chemicals, each with varying properties and toxicity, it is challenging to develop comprehensive regulations that cover all relevant compounds.

2. Lack of standardised analytical methods: Detecting and quantifying PFAS in various environmental matrices requires advanced analytical techniques, and there is a need for standardised methods to ensure consistent and accurate measurements.

3. Scientific uncertainty: Ongoing research is needed to fully understand the health effects of many PFAS compounds, particularly at low exposure levels and over long periods.

4. Economic considerations: Implementing and enforcing PFAS regulations can be costly for both regulators and industries, and there is a need to balance public health protection with economic impacts.

5. Public and stakeholder engagement: Effectively communicating the risks of PFAS contamination to justify and explain the need for regulation.

How do regulatory agencies determine safe levels of PFAS in drinking water and the environment?

Regulatory agencies determine safe levels of PFAS in drinking water and the environment based on toxicological studies, epidemiological data, and risk assessments. These studies evaluate the health effects of PFAS exposure, including potential impacts on liver function, cholesterol levels, immune response, and cancer risk. Agencies use this data to establish reference doses (RfD) or tolerable daily intakes (TDI) that represent safe exposure levels. These values are then used to set maximum contaminant levels (MCL) or health advisory levels (HAL) in drinking water. Agencies also consider factors such as analytical detection limits, treatment feasibility, and the costs and benefits of regulation when setting these levels.

What are the potential legal and financial liabilities for companies responsible for PFAS contamination?

Companies responsible for PFAS contamination may face significant legal and financial liabilities, including:

1. Regulatory penalties and fines: Regulatory agencies can impose fines and penalties for non-compliance with PFAS regulations and cleanup orders.

2. Cleanup costs: Companies may be held responsible for the costs of assessing and remediating contaminated sites, which can be substantial.

3. Litigation and settlements: Companies may face lawsuits from affected communities, individuals, and other entities seeking compensation for health impacts, property damage, and other losses related to PFAS contamination.

4. Reputational damage: Public awareness and concern about PFAS contamination can harm a company's reputation and lead to loss of consumer trust and market share.

5. Insurance and liability coverage: Companies may face challenges in obtaining or maintaining insurance coverage for PFAS-related liabilities, leading to increased financial risk.

How can Yordas help you navigate the complex PFAS regulatory landscape?

Given the constantly changing PFAS regulatory environment, including heightened regulatory requirements in the EU and the US, it's essential to stay informed about PFAS regulatory changes. At Yordas, our teams can provide support at every stage to help you meet PFAS regulatory requirements. Get in touch with us today to learn how our team can assist you in addressing your PFAS-related challenges. 

Additionally, our team has developed a PFAS identification tool, which provides automated, case-by-case identification and screening for PFAS across your entire product portfolio, regardless of whether it appears on current lists or not. Please contact our team for more information about this identification tool.

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About our experts

Jude Arokianathar, Product Stewardship Regulatory Consultant

Jude Arokianathar joined Yordas Group in 2021 as a Regulatory Consultant, following a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry and MSci in Pharmaceutical Chemistry. He is part of the Product Stewardship team at Yordas Group, where he works closely with clients from various sectors such as automotive, aerospace and defense, and consumer to ensure their compliance with existing and upcoming chemical legislation. Jude specializes in PFAS-related legislation, and with his strong scientific and regulatory background, he provides clients with regulatory advice to assist them in preparing for upcoming PFAS bans/restrictions and participating in consultations. Additionally, he is responsible for preparing and delivering communications, including webinars, blogs and fact sheets, on PFAS and other substances of concern.

David Seed, Product Stewardship Regulatory Consultant

David Seed joined Yordas Group in 2023 as a Regulatory Consultant, with previous experience in business insight and a Master’s Degree in chemistry. Working as part of the Product Stewardship team, David works with clients from a wide variety of industries, helping to ensure their compliance with the regulatory landscape.

As part of his role at Yordas Group, David closely monitors worldwide PFAS regulations, providing clients with updates on relevant developments, providing specific advice on regulatory queries, and helping to develop Yordas’s capabilities and tools regarding PFAS compliance. His chemical knowledge and work regarding regulatory compliance ensure he is well-placed to advise on the nuances of PFAS and their regulation.