The UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has opened a six-month public consultation to gather views on the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foams.
The initiative aims to collect evidence and feedback from users, industry stakeholders, and trade associations to inform potential legal restrictions on PFAS-based products.
Launched in HSE’s capacity as the agency responsible for UK REACH—the registration, evaluation, authorisation, and restriction of chemicals—the consultation forms part of a broader regulatory response to mounting concern over PFAS pollution. It follows the publication of the Annex 15 restriction report, which presents scientific evidence on the environmental and human health risks associated with PFAS in firefighting foams.
“HSE’s proposals have been developed through robust scientific methodology and where possible we have spoken with interested parties from across Great Britain. Now we are looking for more information from our stakeholders,” said Dr Richard Daniels, HSE’s Director of the Chemicals Regulation Division. “We’re seeking evidence-based feedback on our analysis to ensure any future restrictions are proportionate, effective, and tailored to Great Britain’s specific needs.”
HSE’s 2023 analysis identified firefighting foams as a priority for regulatory action, noting that their use represents one of the largest direct sources of PFAS emissions to the environment. This move toward consultation marks the next phase in that process.
Concerns around PFAS have been growing, particularly in light of findings from a year-long study—previously reported by the Fire Protection Association (FPA)—which suggested that clean-up costs for PFAS contamination in the UK could approach £9.9 billion per year.
The consultation will remain open until 18 February 2026, after which the HSE will submit its recommendations to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), as well as to the Scottish and Welsh Governments. These recommendations will determine whether a legal restriction on PFAS use in firefighting foams should be introduced.
To support the consultation process, HSE has published the full restriction report and a Q&A document aimed at clarifying the scope, methodology, and evidence requirements. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit their responses based on practical experience, environmental impact, and operational implications.
