'Forever Chemicals' Found In Chester Elementary School Drinking Water

CHESTER, NJ — High concentrations of a chemical that the US Environmental Protection Agency claims is linked to unfavorable health effects have been found in a Chester Elementary school, according to school officials.

Dickerson Elementary released an official statement in late August disclosing the findings of high levels of Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA).

"Our water system recently violated a New Jersey drinking water standard and as our staff and students, you have a right to know what happened, what you should do, and what we are doing to correct this situation," officials said.

Levels of PFOA in June were .024 micrograms per liter (μg/L), which is higher than the state standard of 0.014 μg/L. Boiling water does not remove the PFOA.

PFOA belongs to the class of chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Due to its resistance to corrosive chemicals and high temperatures, PFOA is used as a processing aid in the production of fluoropolymers used in non-stick cookware and other products, as well as other commercial and industrial uses.

The Environmental Protection Agency stated earlier this summer that PFAS are much more dangerous than previously believed and that local utilities should either install filters to remove them or at the very least inform customers of their danger.

Manufacturers in the United States have phased out PFOA and PFOS, which were once an appealing choice for packaging and other products because they don't react with other molecules and repel stains, grease, and water. A few uses remain, and they're ubiquitous in the environment, having accumulated since the 1940s.

PFAS compounds are widely found in a variety of common household goods, including furniture, food packaging, and nonstick cookware, and are often referred to as "forever chemicals" due to their slow deterioration and ability to remain in the human body for many years after ingestion.

PFAS chemicals have been linked, according to the CDC, to an increased risk of immune system problems, liver, kidney, and blood serum cholesterol issues, as well as an increased risk of birth defects.

Dickerson Elementary stated that immediate action was taken to ensure the safety of all students. The school's plan is to connect to the NJ American municipal water system, with the goal of fully resolving the problem within the next 18 months.