PFAS in Non-Hazardous Waste: Why Testing Still Matters

In recent years, PFAS—or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances—have gone from an obscure acronym to a major environmental concern. While typically associated with hazardous waste, PFAS compounds can also be found in non-hazardous industrial waste streams. And for businesses aiming to stay compliant and reduce liability, testing for PFAS isn’t just a good idea—it’s a critical part of risk management.

What Are PFAS, and Why Are They So Concerning?

PFAS are a family of synthetic chemicals known for their resistance to heat, water, and oil. They’ve been widely used in manufacturing, firefighting foams, coatings, and consumer products. But their persistence in the environment—and potential to accumulate in the human body—has earned them the nickname “forever chemicals.”

Even small quantities of PFAS can contaminate soil and groundwater, prompting costly cleanup and regulatory scrutiny.

Non-Hazardous Waste Can Still Contain PFAS

It’s a common misconception that PFAS only show up in hazardous waste. In reality, many non-hazardous materials can contain trace amounts, including:

• Wastewater sludge
• Industrial rinsates
• Spent filter media
• Absorbents used during routine cleanups
• Residuals from equipment cleaning

Because these waste streams are often labeled as non-hazardous, businesses may skip PFAS testing—unaware of the risks they’re assuming.

Regulatory Oversight Is Expanding Rapidly

Both federal and state agencies are taking aggressive action to identify and limit PFAS in all types of waste. While the U.S. EPA is still finalizing nationwide rules, several Midwest states (like Michigan and Illinois) already have enforceable limits for PFAS concentrations in wastewater and landfill leachate.

Failing to test non-hazardous waste for PFAS can lead to:

• Violations of discharge or disposal permits
• Fines for improper waste classification
• Site remediation obligations if PFAS are later detected

Benefits of Proactive PFAS Testing

Testing for PFAS—even when not explicitly required—helps industrial facilities:

• Avoid unintentional permit violations
• Ensure proper waste routing and treatment
• Protect landfills and wastewater treatment infrastructure
• Build defensible documentation in the event of audits or investigations

A proactive approach also sends a strong message to regulators and stakeholders: your business takes environmental compliance seriously.

How Illini Environmental Can Help

Illini Environmental provides cost-effective, reliable PFAS sampling and testing services as part of our non-hazardous waste programs. Our process includes:

• Targeted waste stream review
• Sample collection and laboratory coordination
• Guidance on interpretation of results
• Recommendations for treatment, disposal, or process changes

We help clients stay ahead of regulation and avoid costly surprises down the line.

Don’t Let “Non-Hazardous” Become a Blind Spot

Just because a waste stream is classified as non-hazardous doesn’t mean it’s free from compliance risk. With PFAS gaining attention across agencies, industries, and the public, now is the time to include testing in your waste strategy.

Contact Illini Environmental today to schedule a PFAS risk assessment or discuss how testing can fit into your existing waste management plan.