NJ DEP has adopted rules requiring operators of public water systems to begin testing for PFOA and PFOS chemicals. NJ drinking water and groundwater can have a maximum contaminant level of 14 parts per trillion for PFOA and 13 parts per trillion for PFOS.
On Monday, the Department of Environmental Protection adopted rules requiring all operators of public water systems to begin testing for PFOA and PFOS chemicals. Under the new rules, drinking water and groundwater in New Jersey can have a maximum contaminant level of 14 parts per trillion for PFOA and 13 parts per trillion for PFOS. The standards are far more stringent than then Federal guidelines which allow 70 parts per trillion for both PFOA and PFOS, and are some of the most stringent in the country.
PFOA and PFOS are two chemicals that are known as “forever chemicals” because they are difficult to break down, and have been linked to cancer and other ailments.
The new rules require all public water operators to begin monitoring for the chemicals to ensure they meet the new standards in the first quarter of 2021. If the water exceeds the new standards, utility operators must install treatment systems or take other measures to ensure the water quality meets the guidelines.
You should review these new rules with your municipal utility authorities to ensure compliance and for further information.
Contact: Frank Marshall, Esq., Associate General Counsel, fmarshall@njlm.org, 609-695-3481 x137.