Deadline: 3 June 2024 

 

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, bans 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. HSE is aware that a large number of COMAH sites are currently using firefighting foams containing PFAS.  

 

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 COMAH 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 is 3 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. 

 

View the call for evidence on HSE's website. 

 

Further information can be found in our accompanying YouTube video.