Search

EPA Develops New PFAS Test Method 1633

Posted on 9/8/2021 by Roseanne Bottone

Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are called “forever chemicals” because their unique chemistry prevents them from breaking down in the environment. PFAS are bio-accumulative and persistent in the human body. They are used to manufacture everyday consumer goods like non-stick cookware, cleaning products, sneakers, electronics, and even facial moisturizers.

A consistently reliable test method to measure PFAS levels is essential for effective environmental regulation. US EPA and the Department of Defense (DoD) recently announced the release of a new method to test for PFAS compounds in various media, Draft Method 1633

The new method tests for 40 PFAS compounds in:
  • wastewater,
  • surface water,
  • groundwater,
  • soil,
  • biosolids,
  • sediment,
  • landfill leachate, and
  • fish tissue.
 
EPA’s Council on PFAS and the DoD will continue to collaborate to complete a multi-laboratory validation (MLV) study of the method in 2022.
 
The US Food and Drug Administration explains an MLV this way:
"[An] MLV study is an inter-laboratory study in which collaborators in multiple laboratories use a defined method of analysis to analyze identical portions of homogeneous materials to assess the performance characteristics obtained for that method of analysis…It is designed to measure reproducibility, so that it can be determined if the method can be successfully performed by laboratories other than the originating laboratory."

Existing PFAS Test Methods

Draft Method 1633 is a new tool in the PFAS testing arsenal. Once verified, the new method will complement existing ones that test for PFAS in drinking water under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) and in non-potable water under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).

Who Tests for PFAS?

These laboratory analytical methods are used to analyze the chemical, physical, and biological components of drinking water, wastewater, and other environmental media.

PFAS test methods are used by:
  • Regulatory Authorities;
  • State, local, and tribal municipalities;
  • Researchers;
  • Industry professionals; and
  • Other stakeholders.
Use of the new test method 1633 is not required unless or until the EPA establishes such a requirement through the rulemaking process. EPA recommends using the new test methods in individual permits now.

More about Clean Water Act analytical methods for PFAS.  

Complete EPA Regulations Training

If you’re new to the EH&S field or need an update on changing EPA rules, Lion's live webinars are a convenient way to quickly build up critical expertise.

On December 1 & 2, join Lion for live Complete Environmental Regulations training to identify the EPA rules that impact you. This instructor-led two-day webinar is updated to cover new and changing environmental regulations you should know about, including: 

  • Latest on EPA's new Waters of the US (WOTUS) Rule
  • Major Lautenberg Law amendments to TSCA
  • CSB's new chemical release reporting rule 
  • The latest Clean Air Act requirements for facilities 

Save your seat now

Or learn at your own pace with these two easy-to-use online courses: 
Complete Environmental Regulations Online
Clean Water Act & SDWA Regulations Online

Tags: Clean Water Act, NPDES, PFAS, water discharge

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

The instructor had knowledge of regulations and understanding of real-world situations. The presentation style was engaging and fostered a positive atmosphere for information sharing.

Linda Arlen

Safety & Environmental Compliance Officer

Lion's course was superior to others I have taken in the past. Very clear in the presentation and the examples helped to explain the content presented.

George Bersik

Hazardous Waste Professional

The instructor was probably the best I ever had! He made the class enjoyable, was humorous at times, and very knowledgeable.

Mary Sue Michon

Environmental Administrator

Lion provided an excellent introduction to environmental regulations, making the transition to a new career as an EHS specialist less daunting of a task. Drinking from a fire hose when the flow of water is lessened, is much more enjoyable!

Stephanie Weathers

SHE Specialist

I really enjoyed this training. Even after years on both sides of the comprehension coin, I find myself still learning! The quality of the delivery exceeded much of the training I have received in the past.

Neil Ozonur

Safety Officer

The instructor did an excellent job presenting a very dry subject; keeping everyone interested and making it enjoyable.

Marc Bugg

Hazardous Waste Professional

I tried other environmental training providers, but they were all sub-standard compared to Lion. I will not stray from Lion again!

Sara Sills

Environmental Specialist

The price was reasonable, the time to complete the course was manageable, and the flexibility the online training allowed made it easy to complete.

Felicia Rutledge

Hazmat Shipping Professional

I like Lion's workshops the best because they really dig into the information you need to have when you leave the workshop.

Tom Bush, Jr.

EHS Manager

I can take what I learned in this workshop and apply it to everyday work and relate it to my activities.

Shane Hersh

Materials Handler

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

Four key considerations to help you maximize the convenience and quality of your experience with online training.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.