PFAS in Ohio

PFAS in Ohio’s drinking water

High PFAS levels in drinking water remain one of the most critical public health issues in the state. I have seen firsthand how residents in affected regions often experience anxiety over the quality of their tap water.

The EPA’s Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5) has further revealed more potential PFAS hotspots in Ohio. Several local drinking water systems are now under scrutiny, and ongoing tests aim to determine whether PFAS contamination exceeds either existing or proposed limits.

Affected cities and counties

Ohio’s large population centers are not immune. State-level testing and local news reports point to PFAS detections around Dayton, Columbus, and parts of Northeast Ohio. Suburban and rural counties have reported impacted wells, where residents rely on private water sources not routinely monitored by public health agencies.

Some municipalities have been proactive in releasing data on PFAS test results. Others remain less transparent, citing “trade-secret” provisions or complicated liability questions. When communities uncover PFAS levels exceeding state guidelines, they sometimes seek emergency connections to nearby public water systems. This was the case for at least two smaller water systems that tested above previous federal advisories in 2020 and then switched their supply to safer sources.

Ohio EPA testing initiatives

Ohio’s Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA) has run multiple testing programs to identify PFAS levels in public water systems. According to state reports, the Ohio EPA tested more than 1,500 water systems in 2020, detecting only a few with levels above what was then the health advisory threshold. However, evolving science and stricter advisories by the U.S. EPA indicate that even trace amounts of PFAS are worrying. As of 2025, the federal government has introduced or signaled rules that could set maximum contaminant levels at a fraction of the old federal limit of 70 parts per trillion.

These efforts are not limited to public water supplies. Some private wells in areas near industrial sites or disposal facilities have also been sampled. I have noticed that localized contamination data is not always easy to find, so it may be worthwhile to request recent testing results from city councils or local health boards if you suspect PFAS intrusion.

Known contamination from firefighting foam and industry

One of the most commonly cited PFAS sources is Class B firefighting foam, known as AFFF. Its widespread use at military bases, industrial fire-suppression training grounds, and civilian fire departments has left a legacy of groundwater contamination. At Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, officials installed a system in “Area B” that has already treated 13.5 million gallons of contaminated water.

Industrial discharge is another frequent culprit. Chemical manufacturing plants often release PFAS byproducts. Major companies have historically used PFAS in Teflon and similar nonstick products, leading to contamination around production sites. There have been numerous PFAS-related legal actions nationally against manufacturers like DuPont. If you think your water supply may have been compromised, you can learn more about possible litigation through this DuPont Lawsuit reference.

PFAS in Ohio’s soil and agriculture

PFAS do not dissolve easily and can accumulate in soil over time. In Ohio, farmland near PFAS-producing or PFAS-disposing industries might be impacted. These contaminants can enter produce and livestock feed through irrigated water or contaminated soils.

While no statewide ban on sludge or biosolids application exists specifically for PFAS, agricultural experts caution farmers to test their fields if they grow in areas with known contamination. Some farms and communities are now taking proactive steps to conduct additional PFAS screening. Maintaining healthy soil is essential not only for consumer safety but also for preserving Ohio’s agricultural economy.

Health effects of PFAS exposure

PFAS exposure, especially through water, is identified as a potential risk factor for various health problems. Several agencies, such as the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), have studied PFAS, and independent research continues to expand the list of possible health outcomes. Common concerns include:

• Impaired immune response

• Fertility challenges

• Increased cholesterol levels

• Hormonal imbalances

• Higher lifetime risk of certain cancers

I remain aware that actual risk depends on factors like duration of exposure, concentration of PFAS, and individual susceptibilities, including pre-existing conditions and genetic factors.

PFAS-linked diseases in Ohio

Although PFAS contamination is not limited to a single disease, scientists have noted recurring conditions that appear to coincide with chronic PFAS exposure. Based on data from studies nationwide, certain illnesses stand out.

Kidney cancer

High PFAS levels may correlate with elevated kidney cancer risk. Kidneys filter blood and excrete waste, so any toxic accumulation can disproportionally harm these organs. Residents near contaminated industrial sites have reported higher incidence rates. If you experience persistent renal issues or have a family history of kidney disease, it may be worth consulting your doctor and testing your water source.

Testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is less common than other cancers, yet research suggests an association between PFAS exposure and testicular tumors. Notably, some class-action lawsuits allege that major chemical producers knew or should have known about this risk decades ago. Medical experts emphasize that early detection is critical, so individuals exposed to PFAS should keep up with routine health screenings.

Thyroid disease

Thyroid disorders, including hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, may develop if PFAS affects hormonal balance. Studies indicate that PFAS can disrupt normal endocrine function. Those with pre-existing thyroid conditions could be at higher vulnerability. As with many PFAS-related concerns, early testing and consultation with an endocrinologist are recommended if you live or work near identified contamination zones.

Liver damage and cholesterol changes

PFAS may also damage liver cells, contributing to changes in cholesterol levels. Researchers often note elevated cholesterol and lipid profiles in populations with consistent PFAS exposure. For me, this link stands out as an area where more clinical data is still emerging, but some advisory groups already classify PFAS as potentially harmful to liver health.

How Ohio is responding to the PFAS crisis

Ohio’s response has evolved over time. While various groups have ramped up testing, the path forward includes updating drinking water standards, cleaning up known spills, and informing the public on long-term risk management.

Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) actions

The Ohio EPA has published sampling guidelines for local water systems and supported pilot cleanups around contaminated sites. After initial testing in 2020, the agency established a PFAS action plan, encouraging municipalities to identify possible sources and monitor PFAS levels regularly.

However, responses differ by region. Municipalities with severely contaminated systems often require advanced filtration, such as granular activated carbon (GAC) or reverse-osmosis units. Such measures can be expensive, highlighting the need for state or federal funding. According to a spokesperson from Ohio EPA, “We remain committed to reducing PFAS exposure, but local initiatives need resources to succeed.” The call for financial and technical assistance continues, especially for smaller cities with limited budgets.

State drinking water standards and guidelines

Ohio does not have its own statewide maximum contaminant levels for PFAS chemicals in drinking water. Instead, it generally aligns with federal advisories, which have changed multiple times in recent years. In 2024, the EPA finalized the first national drinking water standards for six PFAS, but by May 2025, it signaled a reversal or elimination of MCLs for four of them, citing new data. This regulatory back-and-forth has prompted some local and regional agencies to create their own, more stringent guidelines.

Eight other states nationwide have already passed firm MCLs for certain PFAS. For example, Michigan sets its standard for PFOA at 8 parts per trillion, a limit significantly stricter than older federal guidance. I appreciate that momentum may build for Ohio to follow suit, particularly as more communities detect PFAS in their water supply.

Cleanup efforts and public health outreach

Active cleanup is ongoing at several military and industrial sites, often involving water treatment systems and soil remediation. Wright-Patterson Air Force Base has already spent over $61.9 million on containment and monitoring. Additionally, the base’s “AFFF Area 1” system alone treated more than 13 million gallons of groundwater to remove PFAS.

Public health outreach is ramping up in tandem with cleanup. Community meetings, online resources, and local partnerships help connect residents to reliable testing and remediation resources. If you want targeted updates or suspect you have been exposed, local health boards or environmental advocacy groups can offer relevant data.

Can you test your water or soil for PFAS in Ohio?

Many private laboratories and government-run programs provide PFAS testing. If you rely on well water, you may qualify for free or subsidized testing through state or county agencies when contamination is suspected. Some labs now offer soil analyses, especially near industrial zones.

If your test results show PFAS levels exceeding health advisories, a few steps to consider include:

• Installing certified water filtration systems (such as reverse osmosis).

• Using bottled water for cooking and drinking while you address the contamination source.

• Consulting environmental professionals to assess whether re-testing or broader community involvement is required.

Federal and local guidance often changes as new data emerges, so I recommend checking the Ohio EPA website or contacting them directly for the newest protocols.

Do you qualify for a PFAS lawsuit in Ohio?

If you believe your health problems or property damages stem from exposure to PFAS, you may be eligible to file a claim. Successfully pursuing a PFAS lawsuit in Ohio typically requires proving that your exposure originated from a specific source, such as nearby industrial facilities or contaminated public water.

Lawyers can help with collecting evidence and medical records. If you are looking for more insight into potential water contamination claims, you can explore PFAS water contamination lawsuits for additional details.

Why choose Legal Claim Assistant

I understand navigating PFAS-related legal options may feel overwhelming, given the likelihood of big corporate or government interests. Legal Claim Assistant helps connect you with attorneys who have prior experience handling PFAS cases and who can guide you through a free case review. By collaborating with us, you may benefit from:

• Access to seasoned legal experts specializing in environmental litigation.

• Support collecting pertinent medical and environmental evidence.

• Ongoing communication and transparency about case status.

Consultations are generally free, with no upfront cost unless your claim succeeds. If you want further information or need immediate assistance, visit Legal Claim Assistant’s PFAS Lawsuit page.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Residents frequently reach out with concerns about PFAS contamination in their neighborhoods and workplaces. Below are concise answers to common queries.