In April 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the first-ever national, legally enforceable drinking water standards for per- and poly-fluoroalkyl (PFAS) substances. Also known as “forever chemicals,” studies have shown links between PFAS and liver damage, thyroid disease, immune system changes, developmental effects or delays in infants and children, higher rates of certain cancers and higher cholesterol levels.
Water districts must comply with these new federal guidelines to avoid legal penalties. Be sure to catch up on what you may have missed with our guide to the new federal PFAS regulations.
The Timeline for Testing and Treatment
All public water systems must complete initial testing for PFAS chemicals by 2027, followed by ongoing compliance monitoring. If testing finds PFAS levels that exceed the legal standards, the individual water districts must notify their customers and act to reduce the levels of PFAs in the drinking water by 2029.
Public Awareness Applies Pressure to Act Now
Interest in PFAS chemicals has skyrocketed as the public becomes more informed of their harmful, lasting health effects. Media coverage has been extensive, from local news stations across the country to major national publications such as USA Today, Bloomberg Law, Associated Press, Vox, NBC News, ABC News and others. The public has also been scouring the internet for information, with statistics showing thousands of Google searches about how to avoid PFAS each week. In short, residents are aware—and they’re demanding action.
New Grant Program Available for Small and Disadvantaged Communities
The EPA has recognized that communities need help addressing PFAS contamination in drinking water and has allocated $5 billion in grant programs for small or disadvantaged communities. This transformational funding has been provided to:
– Address PFAS and emerging contaminant challenges.
– Target resources to communities most in need of assistance to ensure that no community is left behind with unsafe, inadequate water.
– Advance equity and environmental justice by educating communities about funding opportunities and simplifying administrative procedures to reduce or eliminate barriers to access funds.
PFAS testing and treatment can be complex and take several months to complete. While it may sound like districts have ample time to comply with the new regulations, delaying action can risk access to grant funds and increase the likelihood of getting stuck in the backlog that waiting until the last minute can cause.
Be sure to visit the Emerging Contaminants in Small or Disadvantaged Communities page for more information about the grant program.
How RK Water Can Help
This may all sound overwhelming, but RK Water is here to support you through the entire process. We can:
– Perform initial PFAS sampling and testing.
– Identify and evaluate the PFAS compounds requiring treatment and identify the appropriate treatment method.
– Evaluate site-specific conditions, sustainability of the treatment method and cost-effectiveness of viable treatment options.
– Perform CAPEX vs. OPEX evaluation of competing treatment options.
– Design, procure and install temporary or long-term treatment system equipment.
– Operate and maintain treatment systems.
– Provide compliance testing and reporting.
– Handle media change-outs and disposal management.
Are you ready to take advantage of free government funds, get legally compliant and share that you’re at the forefront of public safety? Contact RK Water and save your spot today!
Interest in per- and poly-fluoroalkyl (PFAS) substances in drinking water has skyrocketed as the public becomes more aware of their harmful, lasting health effects. Also known as “forever chemicals,” studies have shown links between PFAS and liver damage, thyroid disease, immune system changes, developmental effects or delays in infants and children, higher rates of certain cancers and increased cholesterol levels. Media coverage has been extensive, from local news stations across the country to major national publications such as USA Today, Bloomberg Law, Associated Press, Vox, NBC News, ABC News, MSN, Washington Examiner and many others.
In April 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) took initial steps to address this issue by announcing the first-ever national, legally enforceable drinking water standards for PFAS substances, known as Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs.) While the EPA has allowed three years for water districts to conduct testing and an additional two years to complete remediation efforts if PFAS is found, the shouts from the public are already loud and will only continue to grow. Property managers of large, multi-residential buildings should consider how the public outcry can influence their property’s standing with potential and existing residents now.
What Can Property Managers Do?
Building owners or property managers can test their building’s drinking water for PFAS and install whole-building treatment systems. Proactively addressing PFAS before national law requirements go into effect can enhance the property’s reputation as health-conscious, socially responsible and environmentally friendly. Management’s willingness to address PFAS can even be a deciding factor when potential residents evaluate residential complexes that may otherwise be similar.
Common Methods for Filtering PFAS
Effective filtration is critical for mitigating PFAS contamination in drinking water. Let’s take a look at the various filtering methods property managers can use as well as the pros and cons of each.
Activated Carbon Filtration
Activated carbon filters are effective in removing chlorine, chloramines, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other contaminants that affect water taste and odor. In certain instances, carbon filtration can also be a key treatment method for the reduction of PFAS.
Pros:
– Effectiveness: Activated carbon is highly effective at removing long-chain PFAS compounds.
– Availability: Widely available and used in many types of water filtration systems.
– Cost: Generally affordable compared to other advanced filtration methods.
– Disposal: Can be regenerated and reused, reducing long-term costs and eliminating disposal.
Cons:
– Short-Chain PFAS: Less effective at removing short-chain PFAS compounds.
– Empty Bed Contact Time (EBCT): Requires longer contact time with the water to be treated resulting in larger footprint compared to ion exchange resin
– Maintenance: Requires regular replacement to maintain effectiveness.
– Limited Capacity: Can become saturated with contaminants, reducing treatment efficiency over time.
Ion Exchange Treatment
Ion exchange filters are effective in removing PFAS from drinking water. The benefit of ion exchange resin for PFAS treatment is the smaller footprint required compared to activated carbon filtration.
Pros:
– High Efficiency: Capable of removing both long- and short-chain PFAS compounds.
– Empty Bed Contact Time (EBCT): Shorter contact time with the water to be treated compared to activated carbon
– Foot Print: Smaller footprint required compared to activated carbon
Cons:
– Initial Cost: Potential for higher initial investment compared to activated carbon.
– Disposal: Cannot be regenerated, and will likely require special disposal considerations including incineration
Reverse Osmosis (RO)
RO systems use a semi-permeable membrane to remove dissolved solids, heavy metals and other impurities at the molecular level, providing highly purified water.
Pros:
– Comprehensive Removal: Effective against a wide range of contaminants, including all PFAS compounds.
– High Efficiency: Capable of removing over 99% of PFAS.
Cons:
– Cost: Expensive installation and maintenance.
– Waste Stream: Produces a significant amount of wastewater. A rule-of-thumb is 30% of the volume treated will be wasted.
– Disposal: Wastewater consists of concentrated PFAS compounds requiring management and/or disposal
– Maintenance: Membrane requires regular replacement and system maintenance.
Nanofiltration
Nanofiltration is similar to reverse osmosis, but uses membranes with slightly larger pores. It effectively removes PFAS while allowing beneficial minerals to remain in the water.
Pros:
– Effectiveness: Removes a high percentage of PFAS.
– Mineral Retention: Retains essential minerals in drinking water.
– Energy Efficiency: Generally requires less energy than reverse osmosis.
Cons:
– Cost: Still relatively expensive compared to more basic methods.
– Maintenance: Membranes need periodic replacement and care.
– Selectivity: May not remove all contaminants as effectively as reverse osmosis.
Whole Building Water Treatment Installation
Water is a fundamental necessity for any building, be it residential, commercial or industrial. Ensuring the water quality is safe and suitable for all intended uses – drinking, bathing, cooking, cleaning, or manufacturing – is crucial. Whole building water treatment installation addresses this need by providing a comprehensive system that purifies and conditions the water supply for an entire building.
Whole building water treatment systems are designed to treat all the water entering a building, providing a centralized solution to address water quality issues. These systems typically include a combination of filtration and purification technologies to remove contaminants, improve water taste and odor, and ensure compliance with health standards. Key components of a whole building water treatment system may include:
– Pre-Filtration: The initial stage involves removing larger particles such as sand, silt, and sediment from the water. Pre-filters protect subsequent treatment stages from clogging and reduce the load on them.
– Filtration: Using one of the methods discussed above.
– Post-Filtration: The final stage may include additional polishing filters to remove any remaining fine particles or impurities, ensuring the highest water quality.
The benefits of whole building water treatment are improved water quality and health benefits. Comprehensive treatment systems ensure that all water entering the building is clean, safe and free from harmful contaminants. By removing harmful chemicals, these systems protect the health of building occupants.
Considerations for installation include water quality assessment, system sizing, professional installation, maintenance requirements and compliance with regulations. Investing in a whole building water treatment system is a proactive step toward ensuring high-quality water for all uses within a building. By addressing water quality issues comprehensively, these systems provide numerous benefits including environmental sustainability. Proper assessment, sizing and professional installation are key to maximizing the benefits of these systems, making them a valuable addition to any building.
How RK Water Can Help
Effective testing, treatment and monitoring are critical, yet as you’ve seen, there are so many options! Which filtering method you need can differ between buildings or complexes depending on the types of PFAS that are present, maintenance considerations, and more. Luckily, you have a friend in the business who can support you through the entire process. RK Water can:
– Perform initial PFAS sampling and testing.
– Identify and evaluate the PFAS compounds requiring treatment and identify the appropriate treatment method.
– Evaluate site-specific conditions, sustainability of the treatment method and cost-effectiveness of viable treatment options.
– Perform CAPEX vs. OPEX evaluation of competing treatment options.
– Design, procure and install temporary or long-term treatment system equipment.
– Operate and maintain treatment systems.
– Provide compliance testing and reporting.
– Handle media change-outs and disposal management.
Are you ready to leverage a significant differentiator to help market your property and be at the forefront of enhancing public safety? Contact RK Water today!
In April 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the first-ever national, legally enforceable drinking water standards for per- and poly-fluoroalkyl (PFAS) substances. Known as “forever chemicals,” PFAS poses significant risks to public health. Studies have shown links between PFAS and liver damage, thyroid disease, immune system changes, developmental effects or delays in infants and children, higher rates of certain cancers and higher cholesterol levels. The clock has started for water districts to act and protect public health by providing safe, clean drinking water that abides by the new enforceable PFAS limits.
The New PFAS Limits
Restrictions have been imposed for five individual PFAS: PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS and HFPO-DA (also known as “GenX Chemicals.”) There are also rule limits for mixtures of any two or more of four types of PFAS: PFNA, PFHxS, PFBS and “GenX Chemicals.” See the chart below for specific level requirements. The enforceable limits are represented by Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs), while the Maximum Contaminant Level Goals (MCLGs) are health-based and non-enforceable.
| Compound | Final MCLG | Final MCL (Enforceable Levels) |
|---|---|---|
| PFOA | 0 | 4.0 parts per trillion (ppt) |
| PFOS | 0 | 4.0 ppt |
| PFHxS | 10 ppt | 10 ppt |
| PFNA | 10 ppt | 10 ppt |
| HFPO-DA (“GenX Chemicals”) | 10 ppt | 10 ppt |
| Mixtures containing two or more of PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA and PFBS | 1 (unitless) Hazard Index | 1 (unitless) Hazard Index |
The Timeline for Testing and Treatment
All public water systems must complete initial testing for PFAS chemicals by 2027, followed by ongoing compliance monitoring. Beginning in 2027, public, regulated water districts are responsible for informing the public of the levels of PFAS measured in their drinking water on an ongoing basis.
If testing finds PFAS levels that exceed the legally required standards, the water district must notify the public and act to reduce the levels of PFAS in the drinking water by 2029.
How You Can Test for PFAS and Get Compliant
Technological developments such as granular activated carbon, reverse osmosis and ion exchange systems can filter PFAS appropriately. The EPA has allocated $1 billion to help water districts resolve PFAS in the drinking water, and districts have the flexibility to determine the best solution for their community.
While this all may sound overwhelming, RK Water is ready to support you through the entire process. We can:
– Perform initial PFAS sampling and testing.
– Identify and evaluate the PFAS compounds requiring treatment and identify the appropriate treatment method.
– Evaluate site-specific conditions, sustainability of the treatment method and cost-effectiveness of viable treatment options.
– Perform CAPEX vs. OPEX evaluation of competing treatment options.
– Design, procure and install temporary or long-term treatment system equipment.
– Operate and maintain treatment systems.
– Provide compliance testing and reporting.
– Handle media change-outs and disposal management.
If you’re ready to be at the forefront of enhancing public safety, contact RK Water today!
Additional Resources from the EPA
FAQs for Drinking Water Primary Agencies
In the realm of water treatment, one size does not fit all. Different water sources present unique treatment challenges, whether it’s municipal wastewater, industrial effluent or natural groundwater. This is where the art of custom fabrication in water treatment equipment shines, offering tailored solutions to meet specific needs and ensure clean, safe water for all. Whether it’s a specialized addition to an existing treatment system or fabrication of an entire treatment system, custom fabrication offers tailored solutions to meet specific needs and ensure that water discharges are clean and safe for all.
The process of custom fabrication in water treatment begins with a comprehensive assessment of the water source and the contaminants it contains. This initial analysis is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment technologies and designing systems that can effectively remove impurities and meet regulatory standards.
One of the key advantages of custom fabrication is its ability to accommodate a wide range of treatment technologies and configurations. From traditional methods like filtration and disinfection to technologies such as membrane separation and advanced oxidation, custom-fabricated equipment can be designed to integrate the most suitable processes for each unique application. Moreover, custom fabrication allows for flexibility in design and sizing to optimize performance and efficiency. Whether it’s a small-scale system for a rural community or a large-scale plant for an industrial facility, custom-fabricated systems can be tailored to meet the specific capacity and space constraints of each project.
Furthermore, custom fabrication of water treatment systems offers long-term cost savings by maximizing operational efficiency and minimizing downstream operational costs. By designing a treatment that is specifically tailored to the application, optimal performance and reliability are achieved.
In addition to technical advantages, custom fabrication also enables greater customization in terms of aesthetics and integration with existing infrastructure. Whether it’s matching the equipment to the surrounding environment or seamlessly integrating it into an existing facility, custom-fabricated systems can be designed to meet the aesthetic and functional requirements of each project.
Overall, the art of custom fabrication in water treatment systems represents a powerful tool for addressing the diverse challenges of water treatment and ensuring water is clean and safe for communities and industries around the world. By combining technical expertise with creativity and innovation, custom-fabricated water treatment equipment offers tailored solutions to deliver maximum performance, efficiency and reliability, paving the way for a healthier and more sustainable future.
Contact RK Water today to discuss your water treatment needs.
In the modern world, access to safe and clean water is fundamental to public health and overall well-being. In the early 1900’s, Chlorination emerged as a water treatment process that revolutionized how we purify and disinfect water on a large scale. The impact of chlorination on society has been profound, drastically reducing waterborne diseases and saving countless lives. In this blog, we will dive into the science behind chlorination, understanding how this ubiquitous disinfection method works to safeguard our water supply.
The Need for Water Treatment
Before the advent of water treatment, communities were plagued by waterborne illnesses such as cholera, E.coli, typhoid and dysentery. These illnesses could and did spread rapidly, devastating entire populations. To address these public health concerns, two pioneering individuals developed the first water treatment plant to establish the delivery of safe drinking water to homes and businesses.
Chlorination is a Game-Changing Discovery
In 1908, a monumental breakthrough occurred when bacteriologist John L. Leal and engineer George W. Fuller introduced the practice of chlorination at the Jersey City Water Supply Company’s Boonton Reservoir in Jersey City, New Jersey, in the first large-scale chlorination of a public drinking water supply in the United States. Initially met with opposition from city officials and the public based on adding “poisonous” chemicals to the drinking water supply, Leal and Fuller persisted, convinced of the potential benefits to the public.
This marked the beginning of an era that would significantly alter the landscape of water purification and serves today as the basis for water treatment purification. By the 1920s, chlorination was a well-established primary means of disinfecting drinking water nationwide.
Today, millions of Americans have access to safe, affordable and abundant drinking water filtered and safely treated with chemical disinfectants due to Leal’s and Fuller’s pioneering engineering triumph.
Mechanism of Chlorination
Chlorination involves the addition of chlorine, either in the form of chlorine gas, sodium hypochlorite (liquid bleach), or calcium hypochlorite (solid granules), to water sources. Upon introduction, the chlorine reacts with various organic and inorganic substances in the water.
Formation of Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl):
Chlorine gas reacts with water (H2O) to form hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and hydrochloric acid (HCl). Hypochlorous acid is the active and most effective form of chlorine for disinfection.
Cl2 + H2O → HOCl + HCl
Disinfection Process:
Hypochlorous acid acts as a powerful disinfectant, attacking and destroying harmful microorganisms by penetrating their cell walls and interfering with enzymatic processes essential for survival. This disrupts the microorganisms’ ability to reproduce and spread, effectively neutralizing the threat of waterborne pathogens.
Chlorine Residual:
Maintaining a chlorine residual in the treated water is crucial to ensure continuous disinfection throughout the distribution system. A chlorine residual refers to the small amount of chlorine that remains in the water after the initial treatment. This residual concentration is a protective barrier against potential contamination during water distribution.
Challenges and Concerns
While chlorination has been a transformative and life-saving water treatment technique, some challenges and concerns are associated with its use.
Disinfection Byproducts (DBPs)
The reaction of chlorine with organic matter in water can lead to the formation of disinfection byproducts (DBPs), such as trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs). Some DBPs have been linked to potential health risks, including an increased risk of cancer. To address this, water treatment facilities have implemented strategies to minimize DBP formation.
Chlorine Resistance
In recent years, certain microorganisms have shown varying degrees of resistance to chlorine, making it necessary to explore alternative disinfection methods or combine chlorination with other treatment processes.
Conclusion
The science behind chlorination has revolutionized public health by providing access to safe and clean water on a large scale. The disinfection power of chlorine has proven pivotal in reducing waterborne diseases and preventing epidemics. Although challenges persist, ongoing research and advancements in water treatment technology will continue to refine the chlorination process, ensuring that future generations enjoy the benefits of safe and potable water.
Visit rk-water.com for more information.
At RK Water, we specialize in providing custom water treatment systems to meet the unique needs of our clients. We take care of every part of the fabrication process, from identifying treatment needs to delivering a fully functional operational water treatment system.
Identifying Water Treatment Needs, Goals and Approach
Every custom water treatment project begins with a thorough assessment of site-specific treatment requirements. By understanding our client’s needs, we design comprehensive water treatment solutions that align with desired outcomes. This includes considering contaminant levels, flow rates, and water quality standards. Our team will engineer a system that meets or exceeds desired standards to meet environmental regulations. Based on the needs and treatment goals, RK Water will explore the best available technologies, such as reverse osmosis, medias, resins and chemical treatment.
Creating Schematic Design and CAD Fabrication Drawing
With the treatment approach determined, our experienced engineers create a schematic design that serves as a blueprint, outlining the treatment system’s layout, equipment arrangement and process flow. Using cutting-edge CAD software, RK Water generates detailed drawings of the fabrication process. These drawings provide precise specifications for each component, including dimensions, materials, connections and assembly instructions.
Procurement, Fabrication and Testing
Our in-house team of plumbers and pipefitters will fabricate the designed water treatment systems. By working with other RK business units, we have the in-house capabilities and facilities to ensure every component is installed correctly and according to the design specifications. Once fabrication is complete and signed off, the completed fabricated system is carefully packaged and prepared for shipping to the installation site.
Operational Treatment System
If desired, the RK Waters field team will install the treatment system upon arrival at the site. Before system operation begins, we’ll ensure that all components are properly connected and calibrated, guaranteeing a smooth start-up sequence. Furthermore, RK Water offers ongoing operational and maintenance services, including technical assistance, to keep the treatment system operating at peak performance.
At RK Water, we understand that each water treatment project is unique and requires a tailored approach. Our fabrication process ensures that our clients’ water treatment goals are effectively and efficiently achieved. If you’re looking for a reliable partner in water treatment, count on RK Water to provide comprehensive solutions.
Learn more at rk-water.com.
Spring is a great time to consider your facility’s cooling tower system. As the weather warms up, many comfort cooling systems shut down in the late fall and winter will soon be put back into operation. Following a few “good housekeeping” procedures are important before these systems are filled with water and started up. These steps allow facilities managers to save money and avoid headaches during the cooling season.
Step 1: Clean Cooling Tower Fill, Basin and Hot Deck
To prepare a cooling system for the upcoming season, clean the cooling tower fill, basin and hot deck. Dirt and debris from the previous cooling season and winter months can build up and must be removed. Failure to remove this debris can foul and plug system components, leading to poor cooling system performance.
Additionally, debris can be a food source for microbiological growth, which can cause corrosion and fouling of heat exchange surfaces and can lead to airborne pathogens such as Legionella. To avoid these issues, debris should be removed from the hot deck and distribution holes. Any broken sprayers or distributors should be repaired or replaced, and the system should be sanitized before being returned to service.
Step 2: Clean and Calibrate Cooling Water Controller
To ensure the optimal functioning of your cooling systems, it’s crucial to clean and calibrate various components. These include the cooling water conductivity controller, probes, flow switch, level controls and chemical metering pumps. Conductivity, pH, and ORP probes that have not been serviced for several months should be cleaned and calibrated. Chemical metering pumps may also need to be cleaned and primed with fresh chemicals before calibration.
Components not properly maintained during the previous season may need to be repaired or replaced to help your cooling systems run smoothly and efficiently. Check that all parts function correctly to keep the cooling water’s chemical balance and prevent scale buildup and corrosion.
Step 3: Clean and Lubricate Fans and Motors
The final step in preparing for the cooling season is cleaning fan housings, lubricating fans and motors, and checking for oil leaks. Ensure fan belts are tight and in working order and replace them if necessary. Oil leaks in fan motors can foul the cooling water system, reducing heat transfer efficiency and causing microbiological growth.
RK Water can assist with your facility needs by providing maintenance services for cooling tower systems, including cleaning and disinfecting the water tanks, checking and repairing leaks, and ensuring that the system is functioning correctly before the start of the cooling season. RK Water’s expertise can help you save money on energy costs and avoid costly repairs down the line.
PFAS, also known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are thousands of chemicals belonging to a single chemical class. PFAS contaminants are found in drinking water as a result of industrial releases and the use of firefighting foam. However, PFAS may also be used in a wide range of products, from food packaging to stain-resistant furniture, and our exposure comes from multiple sources and routes. PFAS does not break down in the environment and moves through soil to drinking water, which is why many scientists refer to them as “forever chemicals.”
What products contain PFAS?
Everyday products may be made with PFAS compounds, such as:
• Clothing like raincoats, yoga pants, shoes and accessories
• Paper packaging, including microwave popcorn bags and takeout packaging
• Stain-resistant carpets, rugs and furniture
• Non-stick cookware
• Firefighting foams and ski wax
Exposure to PFAS is virtually everywhere, from food, air and water, resulting from manufacturing releases and use of PFAS-containing products. Fortunately, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been taking active steps to update drinking water health advisories to replace those issued in 2016. The updated advisories indicate that some adverse health effects occur with concentrations of PFAS in water near zero and below the EPA’s ability to detect. Essentially, the lower the level of PFAS chemicals, the lower the risk to public health.
In addition, EPA is encouraging states, drinking water utilities, and community leaders that find PFAS in their drinking water to inform residents, undertake additional monitoring to assess the level, scope, and source of contamination, and examine steps to reduce exposure. Individuals concerned about levels of PFAS in their drinking water should consider actions that may reduce exposure, including installing a home or point-of-use filter.
How to reduce PFAS contamination?
Under the State of Colorado’s guidance, over 100 communities are retesting drinking water to create dilution or treatment plans if PFAS levels are high. The EPA’s drinking water guidance for PFAS was formerly no more than 70 parts per trillion. However, in June 2022, the EPA’s guidance for two forms of PFAS, PFOA and PFOS, was cut to 0.004 parts per trillion and 0.02 parts per trillion, respectively.
While the EPA has only proposed guidelines for PFAS levels in drinking water, states across the country are implementing enforceable drinking water standards and pursuing litigation against manufacturers of PFAS chemicals for contaminating water supplies and other natural resources.
With more data being shared with government entities about PFAS contamination and states adopting more policies to protect their residents, restrictions will get more rigorous to help eliminate PFAS chemicals. Local governments, state governments and businesses need to work together to help protect those in their communities by taking proper action now.
PFAS Chemical Treatment and Disposal
RK Water has the knowledge and expertise to guide your business through treatment selection, system sizing and ongoing operation. As water treatments experts, RK Water will:
• Perform initial PFAS sampling and testing through DOD certified laboratories
• Evaluate the characteristics of the PFAS requiring treatment
• Take into account site-specific conditions, sustainability of the treatment methods, and cost-effectiveness of viable treatment options
• Perform CAPEX vs. OPEX evaluation of competing treatment options
• Design and install temporary or long-term equipment, including treatment media
• Operate and maintain equipment and treatment systems, including media changeouts
• Compliance testing and reporting
• Manage disposal of media
The result is the reliable treatment of PFAS contamination to desired treatment goals. RK Water has you covered with in-house technical expertise. As RK Water is not committed to one proprietary product line, you are ensured that you will receive the best treatment options available in the market and client-focused attention throughout the process.
Learn more about RK Water’s PFAS treatment services.
Written by Ileana Morales
EPA Announces New Drinking Water Health Advisories for PFAS Chemicals, $1 Billion in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funding to Strengthen Health Protections, accessed July 29, 2022, Environmental Protection Agency
Get the Facts: PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), accessed July 29, 2022, Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families
South Adams County water district is buying Denver’s water to dilute “forever chemicals,” accessed July 29, 2022, The Colorado Sun
Companies are always on the lookout for employees who will stay long-term and are committed to growing and improving. Likewise, employees want to work for companies that will provide them with opportunities to develop their skills.
Mentorships are a great way to help employees, both new and experienced, expand their knowledge and personal development. They focus on positive workplace behavior and performance, providing employees with the training needed to be successful.
Traditionally, mentoring relationships have involved senior employees guiding their younger colleagues, but hierarchy and age aren’t necessarily important in modern workforces. As long as mentors have experience that can help others learn, this is all that matters. For instance, younger employees can teach older employees about ever-changing technology in the workplace.
Successful mentoring relationships can also naturally create a rich multigeneration office culture by combining the top qualities of each participant. Senior employees traditionally have a great work ethic, loyalty and dedication. Whereas, younger employees may come to work with new ideas and passion. Together, they can make for a positive and effective team.
Research has shown that workers who have a mentor enjoy greater job satisfaction, and mentors learn from those they are guiding. But, mentoring in the workplace not only benefits the mentors and mentored, it also benefits companies with increased employee retention and knowledge sharing. On top of that, mentoring programs have shown to increase company diversity, with participation expanding minority representation in management-level positions.
Top Benefits of Mentorship in the Workplace
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Something important to note is that mentoring relationships should never be forced. This can cause employees to resent the idea as an obligatory task. Instead, sharing the positive benefits with employees and offering to help connect them with a mentor, when and if they are ready, is most effective. To be prepared, companies should gather information about employee skills, communication styles and career goals. A major key to successful mentorship relationships is connecting employees who communicate well together, can connect on a personal level and are working toward attaining similar goals.
In the end, mentors need to feel that their time is valued in order to achieve a successful mentorship relationship. Those who are mentored must think of the experience as an investment in their growth, rather than a sure path to promotion.
Apprenticeships prepare workers for highly skilled construction jobs. Employers invest time and money in hands-on training, often along with regular classes. The model provides valuable real-world experience and educational instruction for workers who would like to break into an industry that is new to them. The end goal of an apprenticeship is attaining national skills standards and becoming licensed in a particular skilled trade.
There are many benefits to apprenticeship. However, many people often overlook apprenticeships, instead opting to attend college or beginning their career with an entry-level position.
Here are the top three reasons to consider an apprenticeship:
- Learning While Earning
Going off to college or a trade school can be a great educational experience, but it can cost a lot of money that many simply do not have. On top of that, it can be challenging to hold a full-time job in order to pay for expenses while in school.
Apprentices are paid a basic living wage (the national average is $15/hour) to start while also learning and gaining experience every day. As an apprentice’s skills grow, wage increases and promotions often follow.
- Access to Ongoing Mentoring
Apprentices are usually assigned a mentor who is an experienced construction professional. The mentor’s role is to help plan and guide an apprentice’s learning along the way. They provide valuable feedback and support to improve an apprentice’s skills and are always available to answer questions. - Increased Future Opportunities
Being involved with the day-to-day operations of a business during an apprenticeship, which usually takes two to four years to complete, allows apprentices to make connections with many important people within the industry.
Future employers will also see the hard work that was required to complete the apprenticeship and will surely value that education and work ethic when considering hiring an individual.
In addition, apprentices have the potential to earn college credit toward a degree through their apprenticeship program, should they decide to work towards gaining an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree at a later date.
The apprenticeship model prepares workers to compete in today’s economy. The hands-on training keeps apprentices current with innovations and technology. Moreover, the majority of apprentices stay on as full-time employees upon completion of an apprenticeship, allowing for a successful long-term career with a competitive salary without college debt.
The RK Apprenticeship Program helps provide skills for a much needed construction workforce. If you are interested in starting an apprenticeship in construction, click here to learn more about what our program offers.