Recent testing has revealed the presence of “forever chemicals” in the Hoaeae Wells Granular Activated Carbon Treatment System, which supplies water to communities across West Oahu, from Ewa Beach to Makaha. The Board of Water Supply reported Tuesday that low levels of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) were found at the Waipahu water system located on Hoaeae Street, between Honowai and Hiwahiwa Streets.
According to the state Department of Health, the levels of Perfluoropentanoic acid (PFPeA) and Perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) detected are below the current Environmental Action Limit, indicating that they do not pose a health concern at this time. However, residents may still be concerned about the long-term impacts of these chemicals on their health, and some residents may choose to install in-home filtration systems.
PFAS are often referred to as 'forever chemicals' because they persist in the environment for hundreds of years, making them difficult to remove from water systems. These human-made substances have been used for over 60 years in products like non-stick cookware, stain-repellent carpets, water-resistant clothing, food packaging and firefighting foam. PFAS are known to cause serious health problems and have been linked to cancer, reproductive issues and immunotoxicity.
The BWS detected these chemicals as part of its ongoing PFAS testing program. Improvements in testing methods and technology allowed for the detection of even trace amounts of these substances in water samples.
Details about the types of PFAS detected and their concentrations can be found in the table below.
