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Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
PFAS are chemicals used in many consumer products to prevent stains, and to repel water, oil, and grease. Commercial and consumer products containing these compounds were first introduced in the 1950s. They were used in a variety of products such as for the treatment of upholstered furniture fabric and carpets, in nonstick cookware, floor wax, the lining of food containers/packaging and firefighting foam. PFAS are now present virtually everywhere in the world because of the large amounts that have been manufactured and used by international consumers and industry. Once these compounds are released to the environment, they break down very slowly.

PFAS are chemicals of emerging concern, which have no Safe Drinking Water Act regulatory standards or routine water quality testing requirements. The EPA is currently studying PFAS to determine if national regulation is needed. Studies by the EPA, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), and others indicate that exposure to PFAS may cause elevated serum cholesterol levels and developmental effects to fetuses during pregnancy (e.g., low birth weight, accelerated puberty, skeletal variations) or to breastfed infants.
Department of Defense
The Department of Defense (DoD) is actively investigating and taking measures to mitigate PFAS contamination within their facilities across the nation. More information about the DoD’s efforts and additional resources are available through the link below.
Click here for DoD PFAS information page
Office of the Secretary of Defense
The Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) is vigilant in addressing PFAS contamination within DoD facilities. The OSD has assembled policies to monitor the situation and ensure the health of citizens and their surrounding environment. More information can be obtained through the links below.
Click here for information about OSD PFAS monitoring and mitigation
Click here for OSD policies
Assistant Secretary of the Navy (ASN)
The United States Department of Navy (DON) has begun investigations to determine the extent and presence of PFAS contamination within DON facilities across the nation. More information about the DON’s strategy for monitoring PFAS contamination, FAQ and policies are available for review.
Click here for ASN PFAS Strategy
Click here for ASN PFAS FAQs
Click here for ASN PFAS Policy
Emerging Contaminants
The Department of Defense (DoD) is proactive in identifying and managing risks associated with emerging contaminants (ECs). A compendium of additional resources regarding PFAS and other emerging contaminants are available for review along with a general explanation of the process for identifying and managing these contaminants.
Click here for additional information