The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has opened a six-month public consultation to gather stakeholder views on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foams.
The HSE acts as the Agency for UK REACH, the regulation governing use of chemicals in the UK. REACH stands for registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals, and UK REACH applies to the majority of chemical substances that are manufactured in or imported into Great Britain.
This can be a substance on its own, a substance in a mixture, such as ink or paint, a substance that makes up an ‘article’ – an object that is produced with a special shape, surface or design, for example a car, furniture or clothes.
HSE has opened UK REACH consultation links to the publication of the Annex 15 restriction report, which presents HSE’s scientific analysis and evidence base for potential restrictions on PFAS use in firefighting foams in Great Britain.
The consultation is said to provide an opportunity for those who use foams from industry, and other stakeholders, such as trade associations, to comment on the proposals before the opinions are made and sent to the Defra Secretary of State, and the Scottish and Welsh Governments for a decision on whether to bring a restriction into law.
Dr Richard Daniels, HSE’s Director of Chemicals Regulation Division, said: “HSE’s proposals have been developed through robust scientific methodology and where possible we have spoken with interested parties from across Great Britain. Now we are looking for more information from our stakeholders.
“We’re seeking evidence-based feedback on our analysis to ensure any future restrictions are proportionate, effective and tailored to Great Britain’s specific needs.”
This work takes forward the recommendation from analysis in 2023 that PFAS in firefighting foams are prioritised for action ahead of other uses of PFAS, as firefighting foams are one of the largest sources of direct releases to the environment.
The consultation runs until 18 February 2026 and full details, including the restriction report and supporting documents, are available here. HSE has also published a Q&A document (PDF) to help stakeholders understand the scope and limitations of the consultation.
