Organic High Risk
PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate)
Cancer risk, thyroid effects, immune system effects
Sources: Firefighting foam, Metal plating, Stain repellents
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (0.004 μg/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
0.004 μg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 μg/L
Violating Systems
3 nationwide
Affected Population
259,328 estimated
Avg Detected Level
0.0021 μg/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate) in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause cancer risk, thyroid effects, immune system effects. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 0.004 μg/L to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks. This contaminant is considered high priority due to its severe potential health impacts.
Detailed Health Effects
Cancer risk, thyroid effects, immune system effects
Common Sources
1
Firefighting foam 2
Metal plating 3
Stain repellents National Overview
Total Tests
59
Violations Found
3
Violation Rate
5.1%
Top States by Violations
Most Affected Systems
Treatment Methods
Granular activated carbon
Ion exchange
Reverse osmosis
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate) and why is it in drinking water?
PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate) is a organic contaminant. Common sources include: Firefighting foam, Metal plating, Stain repellents.
What are the health effects of PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate) in drinking water?
Cancer risk, thyroid effects, immune system effects
What is the EPA limit for PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate)?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate) is 0.004 μg/L.
How can I remove PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate) from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate) include: Granular activated carbon, Ion exchange, Reverse osmosis.
How do I test my water for PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate)?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for PFOS (Perfluorooctane Sulfonate) levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.