Winston Salem Times

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has officially announced new requirements regarding per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water. The EPA has confirmed a maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 4.0 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA and PFOS, two common PFAS chemicals, as well as a health advisory index for four additional PFAS chemicals.

Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utilities, in anticipation of these standards, have been actively monitoring for PFAS compounds in their water sources and treated water. The utility has reported that their proactive sampling has consistently shown non-detectable levels of PFAS in the treated drinking water, remaining below the 4.0 ppt threshold set by the EPA.

In response to the new regulations, Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utilities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining compliance with state and federal guidelines. They stated, "WSFC Utilities will continue to monitor treated water as per the new regulations and anticipates PFOA and PFOS levels in drinking water to remain below the MCL."

Highlighting the industry's innocence in the PFAS issue, Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utilities emphasized, "Water systems did not create, nor have they contributed to this issue." The utility also underlined their track record of adherence to federal water quality standards for over 20 years, stating, "For more than 20 years, Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utilities has met or surpassed all federal water quality standards."

The EPA's recent announcement marks a significant step in regulating PFAS chemicals in drinking water, aiming to ensure the safety and quality of water sources across the nation. Customers interested in further information can access annual water quality reports on the city's website or contact CityLink for additional inquiries.