The Relative Exposure to PFAS from Well Water for Firefighters in North Carolina

Abstract

Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) is a Class-B fire suppressant used to extinguish flammable fuel-based fires. Although very effective, the active ingredient in these foams is fluorinated surfactants, a category of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Due to the nature of AFFF use in outdoor environments, PFAS can contaminate surface and groundwater. Because of PFAS's resistance to degradation and its link to illnesses when ingested, this is a cause of concern. In this study, I evaluate levels of PFAS in the well water used by 398 fire stations across North Carolina. Using existing data on the level of PFAS in county water systems in the state, I conduct a comparison of relative exposure risk on ingestion of PFAS in drinking water at 15 fire stations and corresponding water systems within the county. This study will show areas that have high exposure to PFAS in potable water and provide a starting point for remediation work.