PFAS explained: a guide for employers

What are PFAS?

Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large, complex group of synthetic chemicals that have been used in many consumer products. They are used to make products grease-proof, waterproof, and stain resistant. The chemicals within PFAS are extremely persistent and take thousands of years or more to biodegrade into the environment.

Why should employers be concerned about PFAS exposure?

Exposure to PFAS chemicals is linked to higher cancer rates and increased risks of heart disease, birth defects, infertility, liver failure, suppressed immune function and other serious health problems. A report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data found PFAS in the blood of a staggering 97% of Americans. These findings are especially concerning for workers in industries where concentrated PFAS are used or produced.

Even minuscule amounts of PFAS have been shown to compromise the immune system. Due to PFAS’ ability to build up in the body, these small amounts consumed regularly can result in measurable levels in exposed people. Research by the CDC indicates that PFAS exposure is associated with various health risks, including cancers of the testes, kidneys, liver, and pancreas; fetal development issues; weakened childhood immunity; low birth weight; reduced vaccine efficacy; endocrine disruption; elevated cholesterol; and weight gain in children and adults on diets.

How are workers exposed to PFAS?

Humans are exposed to PFAS chemicals through multiple sources. Human exposure is widespread but variable by geography and occupation. Depending on method of usage, PFAS will eventually leak into the soil, water, and air exposing humans to these chemicals by consuming PFAS-contaminated water or food or breathing air containing PFAS. These sources can originate from various locations, including landfills, wastewater treatment plants, contaminated sites, industrial facilities, and other sources.

Drinking water

Firefighting foam used at military bases, training centers, and airports can contaminate our water with PFAS. Many water facilities, especially smaller or older ones, lack the specialized equipment or technology necessary to effectively remove PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) from drinking water.

Food

PFAS can be found in non-stick cookware and in grease proof containers such as food packaging, fast-food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags, and pizza boxes, to name a few. Exposure can also happen when eating food (for example: meat, dairy, and vegetables) produced near places where PFAS were used or made.

Fabric

PFAS chemicals are added to clothing and furniture or upholstery to make them waterproof and stain resistant. Exposure can happen from unintentionally swallowing residue, dust, aerosols, or fumes from these types of products.

High-risk industries most susceptible to PFAS exposure

According to The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), occupations that are known to be exposed more than the general U.S. population are:

• Chemical manufacturing workers
• Firefighters, and
• Ski wax technicians

Industries at high risk include firefighting, chemical manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, textile manufacturing, and construction, among others.

Workers in these industries are more likely to be exposed to PFAS chemicals due to their frequent handling and proximity to materials or products containing PFAS. For example, workers in the aerospace industry may encounter PFAS containing hydraulic fluids during regular maintenance or repair work. Automotive industry workers may handle brake fluids or lubricants containing them, and firefighters may be exposed due to their use of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), which contains these chemicals.

It’s important to note, however, that contamination can occur in other industries too, such as agriculture, due to the use of PFAS-containing products in crop protection or livestock management.

Employer actions to protect workers from PFAS exposure

Due to the health and environmental risks associated with exposure to hazardous PFAS chemicals, it’s important for businesses to be aware of these risks and take appropriate action to mitigate them.

• Identify the sources of PFAS exposure at your facility, and regularly reassess. Many companies are unaware that there are substances and products that contain PFAS present in their facility and within their supply chain. Take the time to assess the products, materials, equipment, processes, and waste at your facility for PFAS.
• Consider alternatives to PFAS-containing products, materials, and equipment. This could involve collaborating with suppliers and industry experts to find alternative solutions that do not pose the same health and environmental risks.
• Assess potential contamination of the soil and drinking water onsite. If feasible, consider providing access to filtered water for employees. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has conducted extensive testing on various water filters to determine their effectiveness at removing PFAS and have published a list of recommended filters that can be found on their website.
• Provide workers access to and mandate the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) to provide adequate protection from PFAS hazards. PPE can help minimize direct contact with PFAS and reduce the risk of exposure.
• Provide workers with comprehensive training on PFAS hazards, their risk of exposure, and actions they can take to mitigate exposure. Training should be regular and ongoing with the latest information and include proper handling procedures and emergency response protocols.
• Properly destroy or dispose of PFAS materials according to EPA’s 2024 Interim Guidance on the Destruction and Disposal of PFAS.
• Implement engineering controls such as local exhaust ventilation (LEV). This involves capturing and removing contaminated air from the workplace, preventing workers from inhaling PFAS-containing fumes or dust and therefore reducing the risk of exposure.
• Monitor workers’ exposure to PFAS. This is an important step to assess the effectiveness of control measures and identify individuals who may be at a higher risk. Methods such as air sampling, blood testing, or urine testing are some options that can be used to gauge the level of exposure and take necessary actions to mitigate risks.
• Stay up to date with federal, state and local regulations regarding PFAS. One challenge to effectively addressing the issue of PFAS exposure is the limited knowledge there is. Research into the toxicity of these chemicals and new methods of destruction and disposal are ongoing. Regulatory agencies are taking action, however, to expand our knowledge and acquire more information.

Bottom line

Given the widespread presence of PFAS, persistence in our environment, and the potential for occupational exposure, it’s paramount that employers in high-risk industries take proactive measures to protect their employees. By identifying sources of PFAS exposure, implementing engineering controls, providing appropriate PPE, and training workers on PFAS safety, employers can significantly reduce the risk of exposure and create a healthier workplace.

Additionally, staying informed about evolving EPA and OSHA regulations and emerging research is essential for maintaining a safe and compliant work environment. Implementing these actions can demonstrate your commitment to the health and safety of your people, customers, and the environment.