EU position
Proposals for the restriction of PFHxA (C6) and its derivatives have been submitted and supported by the Committee for Risk Assessment (RAC) of the European Chemical Agency (ECHA).
ECHA's Committee for Socio-economic Analysis (SEAC) supported the restriction for certain uses, but its conclusions were limited by remained data gaps and uncertainties. Proposed restrictions are likely to come into force some time in 2023 with exemptions for emergency use (5 years) and large storage tank protection (12 years). SEAC are currently considering feedback from over twenty companies and industrial bodies connected with the firefighting profession.
Proposals for the restriction of all PFAS in firefighting foam have been submitted with the opinion of the RAC and SEAC committees documented here.
SEAC are recommending a derogation of 10 years for the use of AFFF-LFs in the North Sea, bringing it in line with Seveso III sites. This recommendation is now awaiting confirmation from ECHA.
ECHA Transition Periods
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Sector/type of use or placing on the market |
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Transitional period after entry into force |
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10 years |
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5 years |
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5 years |
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18 months |
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5 years |
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3 years |
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3 years |
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18 months |
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10 years |
These restrictions point to the phasing out the use of fluorosurfactant firefighting foams within the European Union in order to reduce persistent PFAS within the environment and promote Fluorine Free alternatives.
