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Drinking water is essential for life, and ensuring its safety is crucial for human health. Unfortunately, many people in the Midwest may be exposed to contaminated water, which can contain harmful chemicals like PFOS and PFOA—commonly known as PFAS. These “forever chemicals†are persistent in the environment and can accumulate in the body over time, leading to serious health risks.
As a leader in the bottleless water cooler industry, Office H2O understands the growing concerns around PFAS contamination. That’s why we’re committed to educating our customers about the dangers of these chemicals and how they can protect themselves.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS are synthetic chemicals that have been used in various industries since the 1940s. They are often called “forever chemicals†because they don’t break down easily and can remain in the environment and the human body for years. PFAS are found in firefighting foams, non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, food packaging, and even some cosmetics. Their widespread use makes it difficult to avoid exposure.
How Do PFAS Get Into Our Water?
PFAS enter drinking water through industrial discharge, runoff from fire training sites, and household wastewater. Once in the water supply, they persist for long periods, increasing the risk of exposure. The EPA has set a limit of 70 parts per trillion (ppt) for the combined levels of PFOS and PFOA in drinking water. Exceeding this level can lead to serious health issues.
How Do PFAS Affect Human Health?
Research shows that PFAS exposure can disrupt hormones, raise cholesterol levels, weaken the immune system, and increase cancer risk. These chemicals also bioaccumulate in the body, meaning even small amounts over time can build up and cause harm. Studies suggest PFAS can pass from mother to child during pregnancy, potentially affecting fetal development and birth weight.
What Can You Do If You’ve Been Exposed?
If you suspect PFAS in your water, consult a healthcare professional immediately. Contact your local water provider to request information on PFAS levels in your area. Many suppliers provide annual water quality reports. Consider using a filtration system designed to remove PFAS or testing your water through a certified lab.
Can You Test for PFAS in Your Drinking Water?
Yes, but it requires specialized laboratory testing. Standard water tests usually don’t include PFAS, so you must request specific analysis. Labs use advanced methods like liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry to detect and measure PFAS levels. Testing typically costs between $300 and $600. Check with your state health department for certified labs.
How to Protect Your Drinking Water
Contaminated water is a serious threat to health, especially in workplaces. Office H2O offers bottleless water and ice coolers that provide clean, safe drinking water by removing harmful chemicals and impurities. Our systems tap directly into your water source, ensuring a continuous supply of pure water.
Don’t let water contamination be a concern at work. Try one of our coolers for free for 7 days and enjoy peace of mind knowing your water is safe. Contact us today to learn more.