In a recent development, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released its first-round Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) sampling data under the fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5). This news comes shortly after the recent compilation of the agency’s latest list of unregulated elements subject to surveillance by public water systems (PWSs) on December 27, 2021.
As anticipated, the new rule, known as UCMR 5, requires monitoring for 30 chemical constituents from 2023 to 2025. Out of all these elements, 29 are Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that can be examined using the scope of EPA analytical methods 533 and 537.1.
From a legal perspective, it is crucial for corporations to understand these regulations given their potential impact on operations, especially those related to water systems. By staying ahead of the regulatory curve, organizations can ensure compliance and avoid costly legal and operational setbacks.
The data published by the EPA is both an essential legal and safety resource, providing valuable information for businesses planning their risk mitigation strategies and for legal professionals working in environmental law. It is critical that all parties translate this knowledge into action to remain within the boundaries of the evolving regulations.
For more detailed information on the EPA’s first-round PFAS sampling data, consulting the original report from Fox Rothschild LLP can provide in-depth insights.