What are PFAS?
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of man-made chemicals that have been used for decades in many industries, in certain fire-fighting foams, and in a wide variety of consumer products, such as non-stick cookware and waterproof and stain-repellent fabrics. PFAS have been found in the environment across the globe. Because they do not break down easily in the environment, PFAS can persist for a long time – hence, they have been called “forever chemicals.”
What guidance does the Rhode Island Department of Health provide regarding PFAS?
The Rhode Island Department of Health has a dedicated PFAS site with frequently asked questions. Learn more about RIDOH guidance.
Why is PFAS a concern at URI?
URI routinely monitors its water quality for various contaminants, including PFAS, as required by the Rhode Island Department of Health. This issue is not unique to URI; drinking water suppliers across the state are addressing the removal of PFAS in their water supplies. PFAS in drinking water is a national and global issue. A recent national study from the U.S. Geological Survey reported that nearly half of the nation’s tap water contains PFAS. There currently is no enforceable national standard for PFAS in drinking water. In fact, Rhode Island is one of the first states in the nation to implement a standard for PFAS.
To address the changes to the state’s interim standard, the University is implementing upgrades to the water system—including building a new water treatment facility—that are designed to reduce PFAS to levels well below the state’s interim drinking water standard.
In October 2024, the University announced a major milestone in PFAS removal from its water supply. The Rhode Island Department of Health approved the activation of phase one of a new drinking water PFAS filtration system. Testing following activation of the new system indicated no detectable presence of PFAS in campus drinking water.
What is URI doing to address PFAS in drinking water?
The health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff members are our concern, and the University continues to be proactive in addressing the needs of our community.
URI is home to globally known PFAS researchers and experts. The University also has engaged drinking water and public health experts to evaluate PFAS issues and is working in close collaboration with the Rhode Island Department of Health.
In October 2024, the University announced a major milestone in PFAS removal from its water supply. The Rhode Island Department of Health approved the activation of phase one of a new drinking water PFAS filtration system. Testing following activation of the new system indicated no detectable presence of PFAS in campus drinking water.
Is PFAS bad for me?
According to the Rhode Island Department of Health, when people are exposed, PFAS can build up in the body. The amount of PFAS in the body can increase to the point where it can harm health. Please see the Department of Health’s PFAS Health Effects Factsheet and general PFAS webpage for more information.
Is drinking water that shows results above 20 ppt safe?
According to the Rhode Island Department of Health, if a public water system’s PFAS test results are 70 ppt or more, the system must advise people not to drink the water. When PFAS levels are lower than 70 ppt, there is no requirement for a “do not drink” notice. Recent testing, following activation of a new filtration system on the Kingston Campus, indicated no detectable presence of PFAS in campus drinking water. Prior PFAS test results can be found in the archive of public notices.
Can I use the water for washing?
According to the Rhode Island Department of Health, routine showering, bathing, and swimming are not a major source of exposure to PFAS. Further, according to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) (an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services) and the USEPA, only a small amount of PFAS can get into your body from skin contacting water containing PFAS. And most PFAS generally do not readily evaporate in the air from water.