PFAS Information
Understanding Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Wayland's water supply
What are PFAS?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of thousands of synthetic chemicals that have been used in industry and consumer products since the 1940s. They are sometimes called "forever chemicals" because they don't break down naturally in the environment or in our bodies.
PFAS have been used to make products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease, and water. These include firefighting foam, non-stick cookware, water-resistant clothing, stain-resistant fabrics and carpets, and some cosmetics.
Key Characteristics:
- • Extremely persistent in environment
- • Bioaccumulative in humans and wildlife
- • Mobile in groundwater
- • Found worldwide in water, soil, and air
Common PFAS Sources
Health Effects of PFAS
Potential Health Impacts
Research has shown that exposure to certain PFAS may be linked to:
- • Increased cholesterol levels
- • Changes in liver enzymes
- • Decreased vaccine response
- • Increased risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy
- • Small decreases in infant birth weights
- • Increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer
Vulnerable Populations
Certain groups may be at higher risk from PFAS exposure:
PFAS in Wayland's Water Supply
Detection History
Wayland began testing for PFAS in 2019 as part of a statewide sampling initiative. Initial testing detected PFAS compounds in our water supply at levels that prompted immediate action to protect public health.
Testing Timeline:
Current Status
Our granular activated carbon (GAC) treatment system is successfully removing PFAS from the water supply to below detectable levels.
PFAS Removal Technology
Granular Activated Carbon
Our primary treatment method uses specially designed carbon filters to adsorb PFAS molecules.
- • >99% removal efficiency
- • Proven technology
- • Regular monitoring
Continuous Monitoring
Real-time monitoring ensures treatment effectiveness and early detection of any issues.
- • 24/7 system monitoring
- • Monthly PFAS testing
- • Automated alerts
Safe Disposal
Used carbon filters are safely disposed of through approved hazardous waste facilities.
- • EPA-approved disposal
- • No environmental release
- • Proper documentation
Prevention & Source Protection
Community Actions
While treatment removes PFAS from our water, preventing contamination at the source is equally important for long-term protection.
What You Can Do
Reduce PFAS in Your Home:
- • Use PFAS-free cookware when possible
- • Avoid stain-resistant treatments
- • Choose PFAS-free personal care products
- • Properly dispose of products containing PFAS
- • Support PFAS-free alternatives
Stay Informed:
Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates on PFAS testing results and treatment system performance.