PFAS chemicals detected in wastewater from school floor-stripping project

What happened

The NH Department of Environmental Services detected several PFAS compounds in wastewater generated during a floor-stripping process at Epsom Central School, after the contractor had initially indicated the materials were PFAS-free. DES recommended the wastewater be collected and stored in containers rather than disposed of through the normal wastewater system, with disposal costs estimated at $2,500-$3,500.

Why it matters to families

This is a documented environmental/safety finding requiring special handling of contaminated wastewater at the school, representing a material safety and operational risk that requires ongoing remediation and cost.

The evidence

"The follow-up testing detected several PFAS compounds, although the compounds identified are not currently regulated. DES recommended that the wastewater generated from the floor-stripping process be collected and stored in large plastic containers rather than being disposed of through the normal wastewater system... The estimated disposal costs discussed were approximately $2,500\u2013$3,500."

The source