UK HSE Call for Evidence on PFAS in Firefighting Foams

Stakeholder Engagement

In the first instance, stakeholders are encouraged to identify themselves as willing participants in further dialogue with the Agency throughout the restrictions process. The Agency is particularly interested in hearing from those with relevant information on PFAS or alternatives in firefighting foams, especially within the context of Great Britain.

Types of Information Requested

Manufacturing and Importation

• Manufacture of Firefighting Foams: Details on substances used, manufacturing processes, and quantities.
• Import of Firefighting Foam Products: Information on quantities and suppliers of all types of firefighting foams.

Usage and Alternatives

• Use: Data on quantities used, sectors of use, frequency, on-site storage, and specific products used.
• Alternatives to PFAS in Firefighting Foams: Information on availability, cost, performance comparisons, and barriers to switching to non-PFAS alternatives.

Safety and Environmental Impact

• Hazardous Properties: Safety data sheets, studies on intrinsic properties and exposure, and recommended risk management measures.
• Environmental Fate: Information on what happens to the foam post-use and its environmental dispersal.
• Waste: Details on disposal requirements, recycling opportunities, and remediation efforts.

Standards and Regulations

• Standards: Information on product-specific legislation, performance standards, and certification requirements.

Target Audience

This call for evidence targets companies involved in manufacturing, importing, distributing, and retailing firefighting foams, as well as professional users, trade associations, environmental and consumer organisations, and other stakeholders with relevant information.

Consent for Further Contact

Participants are asked to indicate whether they consent to being contacted for further information by answering the relevant question in the survey provided.

Use of Information

The data collected will support the development of a restriction dossier under UK REACH, focusing on the risks to human health and the environment from the use of PFAS in firefighting foams. Contributions should be backed by references and reliable data, including facts and figures.

Background

In April 2023, the Agency published a Risk Management Options Analysis (RMOA) on PFAS, highlighting several concerns:

• Persistence: PFAS substances or their degradation products remain in the environment for long periods.
• Mobility: High potential for widespread dispersal and contamination, including in water environments.
• Uncertainty: Long-term adverse impacts on the environment and human health are not fully understood.

One primary recommendation was to initiate a restriction proposal to address significant environmental emissions from PFAS in firefighting foams.