What they found
The study derived noncarcinogenic soil screening levels (SSLs) for four PFAS, with 5th percentile values of 26 ng/g for PFOS, 7.9 ng/g for PFOA, 790 ng/g for PFNA, and 0.5 ng/g for PFDA. Incidental soil ingestion rate was the most influential parameter.
What they studied
Researchers developed a specific soil exposure scenario for vegetable farmworkers, using existing EPA models for soil ingestion and dermal contact, and an empirical model for inhalation. These models were parameterized with literature data to derive soil screening levels (SSLs).
Takeaways
The abstract focuses on the study's findings and their implications for public health; it does not provide personal how-to steps for individuals.
About this paper
This study developed a novel farmworker exposure scenario and PFAS soil screening levels using Monte Carlo simulation and toxicity values from the EPA Regional Screening Levels database. The research compared these SSLs to measured soil levels from a statewide testing program in Maine, focusing on biosolids-amended farmland.