EU Moves Toward PFAS Ban in Firefighting Foams

Regulatory Framework: REACH Regulation
Expected Final Restriction: Late 2025

PFAS substances in firefighting foams are persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic, with no safe exposure threshold. ECHA’s recent “State of Play” report confirms the EU’s intention to restrict all PFAS substances in firefighting foams, targeting approximately 470 tonnes of annual PFAS releases in Europe from fire response and training.

Key Features of the Proposal

• Group-based restriction: Covers all PFAS substances rather than a limited subset, reflecting their shared hazardous profile.
• Full phase-out goal: Eliminate PFAS use in firefighting foams across all sectors.
• Transition exemptions: Temporary use allowed in critical sectors where alternatives are not yet available:

o Military defense
o Civil aviation and airports
o Petrochemical and chemical industries

Risk and Environmental Management

• Users must implement PFAS management plans, including:

o Controlled use protocols
o Containment strategies to minimize environmental releases

• Decontamination standards:

Post-phase-out, all equipment (tanks, vehicles, mobile systems) must be cleaned to reduce PFAS residues below 1 mg/L to avoid secondary contamination during use of alternative foams.

Alternative Foam Development

• Fluorine-free foams (F3/SFFF) are being assessed for performance equivalence.
• While many alternatives meet general standards, challenges remain in extreme or rapid-fire conditions, especially in:

o Chemical fires
o Aviation
o Fuel storage

Industry Recommended Actions

Outlook

This restriction will establish a comprehensive, group-wide PFAS control in a major product category, setting a precedent for further EU PFAS phase-outs. Final adoption is expected by late 2025, positioning the EU as a global leader in PFAS regulation.

Reference:

ECHA State of Play Report on PFAS in Firefighting Foams (June 2025)