The HSE, acting as the UK REACH Agency, was asked by Defra, with the agreement of the Scottish and Welsh Governments, to assess a potential restriction on PFAS in firefighting foams. Following a six-month public consultation and advice from independent scientific experts, HSE concluded that restricting the placing on the market and use of PFAS in firefighting foams is an appropriate measure to reduce risks to human health and the environment. A 60-day consultation is now open on the draft socioeconomic opinion, seeking comments only on the socioeconomic impacts of the proposed restriction.
This consultation closes on 7 September 2026.
Source: HSE.