PFAS refers to a large group of chemicals. Perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) are the two chemicals in that group that are the most studied.
These six compounds are singled out from the rest because they have regulatory limits assigned by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for drinking water.
LOQ is the Limit of Quantitation. The limit of quantitation is the lowest amount of PFAS the laboratory can reliably measure. If your result is less than that limit, laboratory reports <LOQ (less than the limit of quantitation).
<LOQ means PFAS could be present but its below what the laboratory can measure.
Any amount of PFAS above the limit of quantitation will be reported as a number.
PPT is Parts per Trillion. One part per trillion is like one drop of food coloring in 18 million gallons of water – that’s 27 Olympic sized swimming pools. Even small amounts of PFAS can be of concern to human health.
✓ The green checkbox means the amount of PFAS is less than what the lab can quantify.
Δ The yellow triangle means the laboratory detected PFAS but that it is less than the EPA limit.
X The red X means the laboratory detected PFAS that is greater than the EPA limit.
The hazard index is tool that evaluates the health risk for a mixture of PFAS instead of the PFAS individually. The EPA Hazard index for PFAS looks at 4 different chemicals. The hazard index takes into consideration the various toxicity levels of those 4 chemicals.
Contact the lab at 207-804-7327 or pfas@novaenvirolabs.com for any questions you have in reading or understanding your EasyCheck™️ CoA.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been widely used since the 1950s to make products more durable and resistant to water, flames, and stains. They are found in everyday items like microwave popcorn bags, smartphones, cosmetics, cleaning products, and even yoga pants. Known as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment, PFAS are exceptionally difficult to eliminate because of their strong carbon-fluorine bonds.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, exposure to PFAS has been linked to serious health conditions, including:
● Several types of cancer
● Thyroid disease
● High cholesterol
● Decreased fertility
● Liver damage
● Testicular cancer
● Changes in fetal and child development
● Increased risk of asthma
● Obesity and metabolic issues
Two Comprehensive Drinking Water Testing Options: EasyCheck™️ and the EPA 533 Compliant Test: Nova offers two distinct testing options to meet the needs of both regulatory and non-regulatory applications:
A proprietary, cost-effective, and user-friendly solution for rapidly assessing PFAS levels in drinking water. EasyCheck™️ provides laboratory accuracy comparable to the EPA 533 test, making it ideal for non-regulatory use. Designed to deliver practical, actionable results, EasyCheck™️ simplifies water testing for both individuals and professionals. With the fastest standard turnaround time in the industry—just 8 days—clients receive quick and precise results. EasyCheck™️—Simple, easy, and always accurate.
Fully compliant with EPA 533 standards, this test is ideal for meeting regulatory and legal requirements and ensuring adherence to all state and federal guidelines.
Both testing options feature an industry-leading 8-day turnaround, with expedited options available. Each test screens for 25 PFAS “forever chemicals,” including Maine’s six specifically regulated compounds (PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS, PFNA, PFHpA, Gen X, and PFDA), along with an additional 19 long-chain and short-chain PFAS compounds. These tests, which include 25 compounds, are a significant improvement over the outdated 537.1 method, which only covers 18 compounds.
Whether you’re purchasing a new home or concerned about your family’s health, Nova Labs provides clear and precise results that allow you to make informed decisions. Our fast turnaround times ensure you get the information you need when you need it most.
At Nova Labs, our team of highly qualified scientists uses advanced technologies to ensure precise PFAS analysis. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of quality and delivering results you can trust.
Whether you’re a homeowner, business leader, or municipal official, Nova Labs helps you make informed decisions about your drinking water. We offer rapid turnaround times and unmatched customer service to ensure you receive the vital information you need quickly.
With rapidly changing regulations surrounding PFAS, proactive testing is a cost-effective way to future-proof your business or home. Identifying potential contamination early helps you avoid costly remediation efforts and ensures compliance with current and future regulations.
Government’s communication called ‘unconscionable’ after one of largest spills of toxic ‘forever chemicals’
People selling homes in New Hampshire will be required to notify buyers.
Days before winter break ended in December 2022, Bill Hansen was relieved.
The Environmental Protection Agency announced new drinking water standards Wednesday to limit exposure to a class of chemicals called PFAS.
Portland, Maine – October 8, 2024 – In response to growing concerns about PFAS contamination
Government’s communication called ‘unconscionable’ after one of largest spills of toxic ‘forever chemicals’
People selling homes in New Hampshire will be required to notify buyers.
Days before winter break ended in December 2022, Bill Hansen was relieved.
A proprietary, cost-effective, and user-friendly solution for rapidly assessing PFAS levels in drinking water, non-potable water, or soil. EasyCheck™️ provides laboratory accuracy comparable to the EPA methods, making it ideal for non-regulatory use. Designed to deliver practical, actionable results, EasyCheck™️ simplifies PFAS testing for both individuals and professionals. With the fastest standard turnaround time in the industry—just 8 days—clients receive quick and precise results. EasyCheck™️—Simple, easy, and always accurate.
Nova Labs is a fully accredited laboratory certified to test for 25+ PFAS “forever chemicals,” including Maine’s six specifically regulated PFAS chemicals (PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS, PFNA, PFHpA, Gen X and PFDA), as well as an additional 19 long-chain and short-chain PFAS compounds.
A simplified testing procedure with clear, step-by-step instructions makes it accessible for anyone to use.
Suitable for testing various water sources, including tap water, well water, and bottled water.
The EASYCheck PFAS test offers precise detection of 25+ PFAS contaminants, even at low concentrations. EASYCheck simplifies the sampling process, making it easier for professionals and consumers alike to use. While the test itself matches the laboratory accuracy of the EPA methods, the results may not meet the standards required by regulatory bodies, or legal challenges. However, this is often sufficient for those simply wanting to know if PFAS chemicals are present in their drinking water and at what levels.
Free standard shipping offered for all EASYCheck™ test kits.
Fully compliant with EPA 533, 537.1, or 1633A standards, this test is ideal for meeting regulatory and legal requirements and ensuring adherence to all state and federal guidelines.
Fastest standard turnaround time in industry (8 days) with expedited turnaround available for additional charge.
Certified testing method: Nova Labs is accredited and certified for the testing of PFAS chemicals in drinking water using EPA method 533 and EPA 537.1 and the testing of non-potable water using EPA method 1633A. See our certificates HERE. In Maine, we are accredited by Maine DWP and Maine Laboratory Accreditation Program (MLAP).
Reported results will include detailed, quantified analysis by EPA Method 533, EPA Method 537.1, or EPA Method 1633A, down to concentrations below ~2 parts per trillion (PPT).
Collecting a sample for PFAS testing requires more care and caution than most testing procedures. Always read all instructions thoroughly before sampling and carefully follow the provided steps to ensure accurate results and avoid cross contamination.