Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are group of synthetic “emerging contaminants”, of which perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) are the most common.
PFAS have been used since the 1940s by a variety of industries, such as aqueous film forming foams used in firefighting; waterproofing for clothing, textiles, and shoes; electronics; automotive components; food packaging; and electroplating.

PFAS toxicity studies are currently being conducted by academia and regulatory agencies to better define human health risks, but possible links to kidney cancer, liver damage, immunodeficiencies, and thyroid disease have been suggested by studies to date. While the US EPA begins to introduce regulatory standards for PFAS (most recently with a February 2019 Action Plan), the WDNR is also actively working to develop consistent strategies for laboratory testing, field investigation, and data assessment.

The WDNR has stated that PFAS meet the state’s definition of a hazardous substance and are subject to regulation under State Statue 292 and Wisconsin Administrative Code NR 700 series. The Sigma Group is involved with several PFAS investigation projects in Wisconsin and also is part of the WDNR Technical Advisory Group for PFAS.

We can help you navigate the current WDNR regulatory issues and provide guidance on your environmental cleanup project. Please contact Adam Roder at 414-643-4134 with questions or to discuss projects where PFAS sampling is being requested.