firefighter from the shoulders down in black and yellow protective gear spraying foam from a hose — Industrial and consumer applications such as fire foam could have adverse health effects on humans and the environment. (Photo by Shutterstock)

Free workshop on dangers of emerging contaminant scheduled for May 17

Wednesday, April 26, 2023

Media Contact: Gail Ellis | Editorial Communications Coordinator | 405-744-9152 | gail.ellis@okstate.edu

Oklahoma State University Extension specialists encourage the public to attend a free seminar on May 17 covering environmental updates of Per and Polyfluroalkyl Substance, also known as PFAS or forever chemicals, found in today’s homes that have been used in consumer and industrial applications.

The event — Updates on PFAS in the Environment: Status on Occurrence, Assessment, Remediation, Litigation and Regulations — will be held May 17 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Oklahoma City Zoo.

PFAS is a contaminant of emerging concern that has been in existence since the 1940s. Its adverse impact on human health and the environment has gained increased public interest, regulation and litigation. PFAS has been detected in water supplies, groundwater, air, biosolids, rainwater, fish and other foods, consumer products and the human body.

The seminar will feature subject matter experts from industry, legal, technical and laboratory sectors with information on:

State of knowledge in PFAS science
Federal regulations
State and Oklahoma regulations
Legal aspects
Impacts on human health and environment
Site assessment/real estate
AFFF management and replacement options
Data interpretation
Remediation
Research
Water and wastewater treatment
Analytical methods for characterization

The free seminar will be offered in person and via a live webinar. Certificates of attendance will be issued upon request. Register online, and contact Keima Kona Borsuah, OSU Extension assistant Extension specialist in solid waste management, at 405-744-9827 or keima.kamara@okstate.edu.