Fire and Safety Solutions Ltd (FASS), members of the British Fire Consortium (BFC), have issued a comprehensive update to clarify current and proposed restrictions concerning PFAS (Per- and polyfluorinated substances) within the fire safety sector. The update aims to dispel ongoing industry confusion and provide clear guidance on legislation, deadlines, and responsibilities for handling these materials.

PFAS, often referred to as ‘forever chemicals’, are a group of up to 10,000 synthetic compounds with varying levels of toxicity. the BFC has categorised the current landscape into two key areas: C8 and C6 fluorosurfactants. C8 variants such as PFOA, PFOS, and PFHxS have been heavily regulated since the mid-2000s, with a final deadline for disposal now set at 3rd December 2025.

The statement also warns of forthcoming legislation on C6 variants like PFHxA, expected by the end of 2025. Once enacted, this legislation will introduce phased deadlines for industries including fire and rescue, aviation and petrochemicals to eliminate the use of C6-based foams, with disposal requirements similar to C8.

FASS encourages all companies in fire protection, safety systems, and chemical management to familiarise themselves with these evolving regulations and take action if required. Full details of the update are available here: PFAS Restriction Update