Reference source : HSE
The UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has published its Risk Assessment Opinion concluding that a restriction on the placing on the market and use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foams is an appropriate measure to reduce risks to the environment and human health via the environment. At the same time, the HSE also launched a 60-day public consultation on the draft Socioeconomic Assessment (SEA) Opinion, which will remain open until 7 September 2026.
Background
The UK Government requested the proposed restriction in March 2024, which was then subject to a six-month public consultation between 18 August 2025 and 18 February 2026. According to the HSE, the published Risk Assessment Opinion reflects comments received during that consultation, as well as advice from the REACH Independent Scientific Expert Pool (RISEP).
Current Consultation
The current consultation is limited to socio-economic considerations. The HSE notes that comments on the risk assessment itself will not be taken into account during this consultation. Following completion of the socio-economic assessment, the Agency Opinion will be submitted to the relevant authorities to inform their decision on whether to introduce a restriction under UK REACH.
Background information on the original restriction proposal can be found here.
