PFAS in San Luis Obispo County

History of PFAS in our Environment

In recent years, health, environmental and regulatory officials around the world have begun to pay strong attention to a group of chemicals that have the potential to cause health problems in humans.  Known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), these chemicals have been around since the 1940s and are commonly used in the manufacture of thousands of different consumer products. 

PFAS Used in Consumer and Industrial Products

PFAS group chemical are commonly found in food, packaging materials, non-stick cooking surfaces, stain- and water-resistant fabrics, polishes, waxes, paint, cleaning products and fire-fighting foams, among many other consumer products.  They are also industrial byproducts of chrome plating, oil recovery and in manufacturing of various electronics components. 

PFAS Found in Common Products

  • Carpet
  • Clothing
  • Furniture Fabrics
  • Food Packaging
  • Water, Grease or Stain Resistant Materials
  • Fire Fighting Foam at Airports

Answering Your Questions

Fact Sheet: PFAS and Health in SLO County

State of California Water Board PFAS Investigations

PFAS Tri-Fold Brochure

Other Resources

You can also find FAQs about PFAS contamination of drinking water and what is being done to find and remove these chemicals below. 

Frequently Asked Questions

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