Euralarm Highlights PFAS Restrictions for Firefighting Gases

Euralarm has released an updated fact sheet focusing on the European Chemical Agency’s (ECHA) proposal to regulate PFAS, particularly in firefighting gases. The proposal, introduced in February 2023 by five European countries, s eeks to limit the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the EU. The fact sheet highlights the importance of gases like HFC-227ea and FK-5-1-12 in fire safety systems, noting that firefighting foams, regulated separately, are not included in this update. These gases, although a small part of fluorinated gas applications, are critical to fire safety, with non-emissive properties until deployed during emergencies.

Given the lack of effective alternatives, the proposal allows a 12-year derogation for firefighting applications, preceded by an 18-month transition period after the law’s expected implementation in 2025. Public consultation, which concluded in September 2023, attracted over 5,600 submissions. ECHA is now reviewing the feedback to refine its recommendations. The updated fact sheet, currently in English, will soon be available in French, German, and Spanish, providing stakeholders across Europe with comprehensive guidance on the proposed restrictions.