Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a member of the group of chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), used as a processing aid in the manufacture of fluoropolymers used in non-stick cookware and other products, as well as other commercial and industrial uses, based on its resistance to harsh chemicals and high temperatures. PFOA has also been used in aqueous film-forming foams for firefighting and training, and it is found in consumer products such as stain-resistant coatings for upholstery and carpets, water-resistant outdoor clothing, and greaseproof food packaging. Major sources of PFOA in drinking water include discharge from industrial facilities where it was made or used and the release of aqueous film-forming foam. Although the use of PFOA has decreased substantially, contamination is expected to continue indefinitely because it is extremely persistent in the environment and is soluble and mobile in water.

## What does this mean?

*People who drink water containing PFOA in excess of the MCL over time could experience problems with their blood serum cholesterol levels, liver, kidney, immune system, or, in males, the reproductive system. Drinking water containing PFOA in excess of the MCL over time may also increase the risk of testicular and kidney cancer. For females, drinking water containing PFOA in excess of the MCL over time may cause developmental delays in a fetus and/or an infant. Some of these developmental effects may persist through childhood.

#### * For specific health information, see https://www.nj.gov/health/ceohs/documents/pfas\_drinking%20water.pdf.

## What should I do?

- • concerned about their health should consult with their personal healthcare • concerned about their health should consult with their personal healthcare provider.
- • New Jersey Department of Health advises that infant formula and other beverages • New Jersey Department of Health advises that infant formula and other beverages for infants, such as plain water or juice, should be prepared with bottled water when PFOA is elevated in drinking water.
- • nursing, and women considering having children may choose to use bottled • nursing, and women considering having children may choose to use bottled water or a home filter designed to remove PFOA for drinking and cooking to reduce exposure to PFOA.
- • people may also choose to use bottled water for drinking and cooking to reduce • people may also choose to use bottled water for drinking and cooking to reduce exposure to PFOA or a home water filter that is certified to reduce levels of PFOA.
- • water treatment devices are available that can reduce levels of PFOA. If a water • water treatment devices are available that can reduce levels of PFOA. If a water treatment device is used, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance and operation. For more specific information regarding the effectiveness of home water filters for reducing PFOA, visit the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) International website, http://www.nsf.org/. [NSF does not certify reduction of PFOA to the NJ MCL for PFOA.]
- • your water will not remove PFOA. • your water will not remove PFOA.

For more information, see https://www.nj.gov/dep/watersupply/pfas/.

## What is being done?

[Describe corrective action]. We anticipate resolving the problem within [estimated time frame].

*For community water systems, if only one portion of the service area is impacted and you were granted permission from the state to limit the distribution of the public notice, it is highly

NJDEP, PFOA PN – MCL Exceedance (CWS&NTNC), 08/2022