PFAS Information

PFAS are fluorinated organic chemicals. Two PFAS chemicals, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) were extensively produced and are the most studied and regulated of these chemicals. Several other PFAS that are similar to PFOS and PFOA exist. These PFAS are contained in some firefighting foams used to extinguish oil and gas fires. They have also been used in a number of industrial processes and to make carpets, clothing, fabrics for furniture, paper packaging for food and other materials (e.g., cookware) that are resistant to water, grease and stains. Because these chemicals have been used in many consumer products, most people have been exposed to them.

While consumer products and food are the largest source of exposure to these chemicals for most people, drinking water can be an additional source of exposure in communities where these chemicals have contaminated water supplies. Such contamination is typically localized and associated with a specific facility, for example, an airfield at which they were used for firefighting or a facility where these chemicals were produced or used.

General information about PFAS and its presence in the Mansfield water supply can be found at the Department of Public Works- Water Department PFAS page.

More information can be found at 

DEP Information on PFAS

Toxic Use Reduction Institute (TURI) PFAS page

Clean Water Fund PFAS: The Forever Chemicals

If you have a private drinking well, more information about PFAS related to private well drinking water can be found at:

DEP FAQ on PFAS related to Private Well Drinking Water Supplies