PFOS Advisory Level
New Jersey adopted a standard or maximum contaminant level (MCL) for perfluorooctancesulfonic acid (PFOS) in 2020 and monitoring began in 2021. Our Postbrook system at Nosenzo Pond Pump Station had levels exceeding the MCL of 0.013 parts per billion (ppb). PVWC addressed this exceedance by installing a treatment system for PFOS and other per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs). The treatment system was operational in August 2022 and providing water below detectable limits.
FAQs
What is an MCL?
An MCL or maximum contaminant level is the maximum permissible level of a contaminant in water which is delivered to any user of a public water system.
How is PFOS measured?
The normal units PFOS is measured in is parts per billion which is equivalent to 1 in 1,000,000,000. To determine compliance with the MCL, and Running Annual Average is used.
What is a RAA?
The running annual average is the average taken of the data of the four most recent quarters.
Where can I see the data?
You can see results for PFOS on NJ Drinking Water Watch at NJDEP-Drinking WaterWatch (state.nj.us). Input 1615008 as the PWSID. The data can be found under the heading Contaminant Results and By Contaminant name.
What is PFOS/PFAS?
Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) is a member of the group of chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), that are man-made and used in industrial and commercial applications.
PFAS are manufactured chemicals found in food packaging, non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, stain resistant carpets and firefighting foam. Over time, PFAS are released and can accumulate in air, soil and water and can be ingested by the human body. In April of 2024, the US Environmental Protection Agency finalized new standards that will take effect in 2029, for PFAS in drinking water.
As leaders in the water industry, PVWC is in compliance with all current standards and has a plan to meet these new standards. Our plan is to optimize existing treatment processes, while testing new ones. We'll design and construct upgrades as needed, while always delivering high-quality water for our customers.