PFAS Testing in Arizona
What Water Systems Need to Know About the New EPA Limits
PFAS testing in Arizona is now critical for public water systems as EPA’s 2024 Maximum Contaminant Levels set enforceable limits of 4 parts per trillion for PFOA and PFOS. AATLS, an ISO 17025 accredited laboratory in Tucson, performs PFAS analysis using EPA Methods 533 and 537.1, detecting 29+ PFAS compounds at part-per-trillion levels with results in 3-5 business days.
Arizona’s PFAS Problem: What the Data Shows
The EPA estimates that approximately 12% of U.S. public water systems may have PFAS levels exceeding the new federal limits. Arizona is particularly affected due to decades of AFFF firefighting foam use at military installations and airports.
Confirmed PFAS Contamination Sites in Arizona
- Luke Air Force Base (Glendale): PFAS detected in nearby groundwater monitoring wells
- Davis-Monthan AFB (Tucson): AFFF use history; ongoing PFAS investigation in surrounding areas
- Former Williams AFB (Mesa/Gilbert): Legacy contamination affecting local water supplies
- Tucson International Airport: PFAS detected in groundwater from firefighting foam use
- Industrial sites across Maricopa, Pima, and Pinal counties: ADEQ has identified multiple groundwater plumes
Even water systems without nearby known contamination sources should test, as PFAS can migrate through groundwater over long distances and persist indefinitely in the environment.
EPA PFAS Limits: The New Maximum Contaminant Levels
In April 2024, the EPA finalized the first-ever legally enforceable limits for PFAS in drinking water under the Safe Drinking Water Act.
| PFAS Compound | MCL (Maximum Contaminant Level) | Regulation Type |
|---|---|---|
| PFOA | 4 ppt | Individual MCL |
| PFOS | 4 ppt | Individual MCL |
| PFHxS | 10 ppt | Individual MCL |
| PFNA | 10 ppt | Individual MCL |
| HFPO-DA (GenX) | 10 ppt | Individual MCL |
| PFHxS + PFNA + HFPO-DA + PFBS | Hazard Index = 1.0 | Mixture (Hazard Index) |
The Hazard Index approach for mixtures means that even if individual PFAS are below their MCLs, the combined effect of multiple PFAS compounds can trigger a violation. This makes comprehensive multi-compound testing essential.
EPA Method 533 vs. 537.1: What They Detect
The EPA requires two complementary analytical methods for comprehensive PFAS monitoring. AATLS is equipped to perform both.
| Feature | EPA Method 537.1 | EPA Method 533 |
|---|---|---|
| Target Compounds | 18 PFAS (longer-chain focus) | 25 PFAS (shorter-chain focus) |
| Key Analytes | PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, PFNA | GenX (HFPO-DA), PFBS, ADONA, shorter-chain PFCAs |
| Detection Limits | Low parts per trillion (ppt) | Low parts per trillion (ppt) |
| Technique | SPE + LC/MS/MS | SPE + LC/MS/MS |
| Why Both Are Needed | Covers legacy long-chain PFAS | Covers newer replacement PFAS that 537.1 misses |
Why this matters: Running only one method can miss regulated compounds. The Hazard Index calculation for mixtures requires data from both methods. AATLS recommends both EPA 533 and 537.1 for complete compliance coverage.
Compliance Timeline for Arizona Water Systems
EPA finalizes PFAS MCLs under the Safe Drinking Water Act. The compliance clock begins for all public water systems.
Baseline testing window. Water systems should conduct initial PFAS sampling to understand exposure levels and plan for treatment if needed. Systems that act early have more time and options for treatment design.
Initial monitoring required. All public water systems must complete their first round of PFAS monitoring and report results to ADEQ and EPA.
Full compliance required. Systems exceeding MCLs must have treatment in place, be providing public notification, and demonstrate they meet all PFAS limits.
ADEQ Monitoring Assistance Program (MAP)
Arizona’s Department of Environmental Quality administers the Monitoring Assistance Program (MAP) to help small and disadvantaged water systems meet new regulatory requirements.
Who Qualifies for MAP Assistance
- Community water systems serving fewer than 10,000 people
- Non-transient non-community water systems (schools, businesses with their own wells)
- Systems that meet the EPA’s definition of “disadvantaged community”
What MAP Provides
- Subsidized or free laboratory analysis for compliance monitoring
- Technical assistance with sampling protocols and regulatory reporting
- Guidance on accessing federal PFAS remediation funding (Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocations)
AATLS works with MAP-eligible systems to ensure sampling meets program requirements. Contact us to discuss your system’s eligibility.
AATLS PFAS Testing Capabilities
- ISO 17025 Accredited for PFAS analysis
- EPA Method 533: 25 PFAS compounds including GenX and short-chain replacements
- EPA Method 537.1: 18 PFAS compounds including PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, PFNA
- Detection limits: Low parts per trillion, meeting all MCL reporting requirements
- Turnaround: 3-5 business days standard; rush available
- Pricing: $300-$500 per sample; volume discounts for multi-site monitoring
- Sample kits: PFAS-free containers shipped to your location with collection instructions
- Reporting: Results formatted for ADEQ compliance submission
PFAS Sample Collection Requirements
PFAS sampling requires special precautions to avoid contamination. AATLS provides PFAS-free sample containers and detailed instructions. Key requirements include:
- Use only laboratory-supplied PFAS-free HDPE containers
- No Teflon-containing materials during collection
- Samplers should avoid waterproof clothing, sunscreen, and insect repellent
- Samples must be kept at 4 degrees C and delivered within 14 days of collection
Start PFAS Testing Now
Don’t wait for the 2027 deadline. Baseline data now gives your system time to plan, budget, and implement treatment if needed.
AATLS | 9030 S Rita Rd, Suite 320, Tucson, AZ 85747 | aatls.com