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) in March 2020.
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).
In addition, proposals for the restriction of all PFAS in firefighting foam have been submitted with the opinion of the RAC and SEAC committees expected mid-2023. Proposed exemptions under this include 18 months for miscible fire services, 5 years for most industries and 10 years for Seveso-III establishments and exports.
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.
We also believe the submission by Mike Willson of Willson Consulting to ECHA is a highly substantial and thorough investigation into the key issues surrounding AFFF alternatives: a copy of his submission can be downloaded here.
