PFAS: Frequently Asked Questions
What are PFAS?
Per- and polyfluoroallyl substances (PFAS) are a group of human-made chemicals that have the potential to adversely affect human health and the environment. PFAS have been manufactured and used Canada since the 1950s, in food packaging, nonstick cookware, and firefighting foam.
What regulations exist for PFAS?
Health Canada has established screening levels for PFAS in soil and water that offers a margin of protection for all people throughout their life from adverse health effects resulting from exposure to PFAS in the environment.
Where did the PFAS come from?
PFAS do not occur naturally, and some are widespread in the environment. Between 1972 and 1993, firefighting foams containing PFAS were used by Transport Canada at the Penticton Airport’s former fire training area (FTA), which resulted in the introduction of PFAS in significant quantities to the environment in this area.
Where has PFAS been found?
Sampling conducted between 2017 and 2025 found that PFAS are present in the soil, shallow groundwater, surface waters, and wild asparagus at Penticton Airport and adjacent oxbow lands.
Is my tap water safe to drink from PFAS contamination at the Penticton airport?
All the drinking water wells on PIB lands that were tested to date near the Penticton airport are safe to drink and continue to meet all Canadian Health guidelines for drinking water. Chief and Council have demanded continuous monitoring of drinking water wells closest to the source of contamination.
How may PFAS affect my health?
PFAS chemical build up over time and can cause cancer and other illnesses when they reach higher concentrations in the body. The level of PFAS found in the wild asparagus was low but may contribute to levels found in people’s bodies from commercial sources. However, the levels of PFAS in the shallow groundwater, surface water, and soils was above Health Canada guidelines.
How does PFAS affect animals and the environment?
PFAS can accumulate in plants and animals, especially in aquatic species. These chemicals can move up the food chain, becoming more concentrated in the people and animals consuming them. Air-breathing organisms (for example, mammals, birds) have been reported to have a high potential for accumulating PFAS, which could negatively affect animal health. There is limited research on the effects of PFAS on animals and the environment and more research is needed to better understand the health effects from PFAS.
What can I do to reduce my exposure to PFAS?
We encourage members to avoid contact with water, soil, animals, and plants in the oxbow area near the Penticton airport until we receive confirmation from Health Canada that the area is safe (see attached map).
Health Canada has the provided information on the health risks of PFAS and how to reduce your exposure:
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and your health – Canada.ca
State of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) report – Canada.ca
We also encourage you to stay informed!
We continue to update our website with information on new regulatory guidance and other PFAS related information: https://pib.ca/pfas-information-2025/ and https://pib.ca/pfas-fact-sheet/
For more information, call [Canada to provide a contact], xxx-xxx-xxxx.