News Details
UK Opens Consultation on Restricting PFAS in Firefighting Foams
The UK Health and Safety
Executive (HSE) has launched a six-month public consultation on a proposed
restriction of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foams
under UK REACH. The consultation will run until 18 February 2026.
Scope of the Proposal
The restriction targets PFAS used
in firefighting foams, covering their manufacture, placing on the market, use,
storage, and disposal. PFAS are defined to include substances containing at
least one fully fluorinated carbon atom (-CF₂ or -CF₃) without hydrogen,
chlorine, bromine, or iodine substituents. The proposal includes transition
periods tailored to sectors to allow operators time to adopt PFAS-free alternatives.
Risks and Rationale
According to the Annex 15
restriction dossier, PFAS in firefighting foams present significant threats to
human health and the environment. Their persistence, mobility, and potential
for bioaccumulation mean that existing controls are insufficient to protect
against exposure. Firefighting foams are highlighted as a key source of PFAS
emissions, especially via runoff into soil and water systems when used
outdoors.
Next Steps
Once the consultation closes, the
HSE will review stakeholder submissions and issue its final opinion. That
opinion will be forwarded to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food &
Rural Affairs and to the devolved administrations for a decision.
The consultation documents,
including the full Annex 15 dossier, are available on the HSE site here
We acknowledge that the above information has been compiled from HSE.
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