This ebulletin relates to HSE's work with the Environment Agency to assess the risks of PFAS in firefighting foams within GB

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Deadline extended: HSE call for evidence on PFAS in firefighting foams

Deadline: 24 June 2024

HSE has recently opened a call for evidence to support the preparation of a restriction dossier on PFAS in firefighting foams. To allow additional time for stakeholders to respond, the deadline for the call for evidence has now been extended.

As part of our role as the Agency for UK REACH (UK Registration Evaluation Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals regulation) HSE is working with the Environment Agency to prepare a restriction dossier that will assess the risks of PFAS in firefighting foams.

Restriction is a measure within the UK REACH framework that limits, prohibits, or sets conditions on the manufacture, placing on the market or use of a substance or group of substances due to an unacceptable risk posed to human health and/or the environment.

PFAS are used in a number of firefighting foams, including those used to combat class B (liquid and gas) fires.

To help compile the restriction dossier, HSE has opened a call for evidence and invites interested parties to respond with information on:

  • the use, storage, and management of PFAS-containing firefighting foams on sites within Great Britain
  • the use, manufacture/formulation, import and/or distribution of firefighting foams in Great Britain which contain PFAS
  • the transition away from PFAS containing firefighting foams and the suitability of alternatives

We would also like to have follow-up discussions with stakeholders on the information provided.

The closing date for the consultation has been extended to 24 June 2024.

The finalised dossier, including any restriction proposals, will be published on HSE's website for further public consultation, expected to be in March 2025.

Further information can be found in our accompanying YouTube video.

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