26th January 2023
In recent years, people have become increasingly concerned about a variety of environmental threats to health and safety. At the top of the list for many is the potential for contaminants in the air and in the water supply. Fortunately, nearly all developed areas have water treatment processes in place to assure an ample supply of safe drinking water. Our Water Softeners are designed to treat hard water and supply safer drinking water, view our water softeners for more detail
There are, however, growing concerns about waterborne contaminants such as Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA), Perfluoro octane Sulfonate (PFOS), and other manufactured chemicals grouped into a category known as PFAS, which have been used in industry and consumer products since the 1940s. Soon the Environmental Agency (EA) will be moving forward with proposing a Regulation aimed at confronting the risks of these chemicals.
PFAS chemicals have been used in industry and consumer products for decades because of their ability to repel substances and make our day-to-day lives easier. Some examples include imparting anti-stick properties to cookware and making clothing stain resistant. There is a multitude of different PFAS, some of which have been more widely used and researched than others.
According to the Environmental Agency, PFAS can be present in our water, soil, air, and food as well as in materials found in our homes or workplaces, including:
Of particular concern in terms of PFAS is the fact that many break down very slowly and can build up in humans, animals, and the environment over time. They are being coined “forever” chemicals, meaning there is no known way to naturally break down or rid this chemical once it has been introduced to our bodies.
The Environmental Agency reports that studies to determine how varying levels of exposure to different PFAS can affect health are ongoing. Research is also underway to better understand the health effects associated with low levels of exposure to PFAS over long periods of time, particularly in children. In the meantime, homeowners who are concerned with drinking water contaminants will find a solution with a Hague Water softener.
Questions? Your local Hague Water dealer can help!
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