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Investigations by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services (DES) have revealed that wastewater from commercial cleaning operations, specifically carpet cleaning and floor stripping/refinishing, contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) at levels significantly exceeding the state's drinking water standards.

The DES's Drinking Water and Groundwater Bureau has found PFAS levels as high as 130,000 parts per trillion (ppt) in commercial carpet cleaning wastewater and nearly 230,000 ppt in floor stripping and refinishing wastewater. These levels are thousands of times higher than New Hampshire's drinking water standards, which range from 11-18 ppt.

PFAS are commonly used in cleaning products to enhance repellent properties, leading to their presence in wastewater from cleaning operations. The state is concerned that these discharges could contaminate nearby drinking water supplies.

The DES has conducted sampling in schools and plans to expand testing to grocery stores and other large retail establishments. A full technical report on the school sampling is expected soon.

A challenge in addressing this issue is the lack of PFAS labeling on cleaning product ingredient lists or safety data sheets. The DES is working with chemical manufacturers to gain more information about PFAS content in their products.

The department is also engaging with trade groups, other state agencies, and commercial cleaning businesses, particularly those with onsite septic systems, to raise awareness and develop guidance for the disposal of PFAS-containing wastewater. Potential solutions include granular activated carbon treatment or containerizing wastewater for removal by waste management companies.

This discovery highlights the potential for PFAS contamination from previously overlooked sources and the need for greater transparency in cleaning product labeling. It also underscores the importance of proper wastewater management in commercial cleaning operations to protect drinking water supplies.

This new reveals a significant environmental concern associated with standard cleaning practices and emphasizes the need for businesses to be aware of PFAS contamination risks and to adopt appropriate wastewater management strategies. The lack of PFAS labeling also highlights the importance of advocating for greater transparency in product ingredient disclosure.