The Interstate Technology Regulatory Council (ITRC) released its PFAS Technical and Regulatory Guidance Document (PFAS-1) in January of this year. The document is designed to support state and federal environmental staff and other decision-makers as they investigate and manage per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are a notoriously difficult class of chemicals to remediate.
The updated document covers a broad range of PFAS topics, including site investigation, remediation, and emerging science. One section particularly relevant to the vapor intrusion community is the dedicated fact sheet on PFAS and vapor intrusion. The guidance summarizes current scientific literature and highlights questions that remain about how to trace, detect, and remediate PFAS in environmental media.
PFAS vapor intrusion has not yet been scientifically established as a confirmed, widespread problem requiring immediate changes to mitigation practices. The guidance itself acknowledges these gaps, which indicates the industry needs more data before drawing firm conclusions.
We'll continue to monitor developments in PFAS vapor intrusion research and keep you updated as the science evolves.