PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” are at the center of one of today’s most complex environmental challenges. Used for decades in everything from manufacturing processes to firefighting foam applications, these persistent compounds are now found in soil, sediment, and waterways across the country. As research and regulations evolve, organizations are seeking trusted partners who can safely and effectively address contamination.
We'll explain PFAS, associated risks, and how Brennan is prepared with the expertise, technology, and experience needed to protect our shared environment.
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of human-made chemicals used in various industrial and consumer applications since the mid-1900s. In general, PFAS are known for their resistance to water, oil, and heat, which has led to their widespread use.
Unfortunately, the trait that makes these chemicals so appealing, chemical stability, also contributes to their harmfulness. PFAS have been nicknamed “forever chemicals” because they do not naturally break down in the environment; this also holds true within the human body.
In recent years, research has shown a significant linkage between PFAS exposure and adverse health conditions like immune system suppression, thyroid hormone disruption, and certain types of cancer.
As awareness of these issues grows, so does the need for regulatory action. PFAS standards have been established for drinking water, but wastewater regulations, water quality criteria, and soil and sediment standards are lagging. Determining compliance standards for emerging contaminants such as PFAS is challenging. In an ideal world, the prevalence and associated health risks of each type of PFAS would be known, and there would be a cost-effective way to analyze a sample of each type quickly. In the real world, however, none of this is entirely true.
While regulators have an idea of which PFAS are most prevalent, they are only scratching the surface regarding associated health risks, and commercial laboratories can only analyze about 50 types of PFAS at a time. As a result, the development of PFAS compliance standards has been slow.
We are keeping a close eye on the regulatory landscape. Many of our projects have involved the cleanup of polluted waterways and industrial sites where PFAS contamination may be present or suspected. In addition, many of our projects involve remediation technologies expected to be useful for PFAS remediation. We already have a strong foundation to build on as environmental regulations tighten and clients in both the public and private sectors seek contractors with the expertise and capacity to address PFAS-related challenges.
Staying ahead of PFAS regulations and technological advances is essential for delivering high-quality, compliant solutions. PFAS remediation also aligns with Brennan’s commitment to environmental stewardship and the protection of natural resources. By offering effective PFAS remediation solutions, Brennan not only fulfills regulatory and client demands but also supports broader sustainability and environmental protection goals.
About J.F. Brennan Company
J.F. Brennan Company, Inc. (Brennan) is a fourth-generation, family-owned marine construction firm specializing in environmental remediation, dam construction, commercial diving, harbor management, and submarine cable services. Working closely with public and private owners of water-based infrastructure since 1919, Brennan operates nationwide throughout coastal and inland waterways.