PLM & Compliance Blog English

EU PFAS Restriction in Firefighting Foams Now in Force

Written by Trace One | Oct 28, 2025 3:48:01 PM

 

The European Commission has adopted Regulation (EU) 2025/1988, significantly tightening restrictions on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foams. This amendment to Annex XVII of REACH (Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006) reflects growing concerns over the environmental and health risks posed by PFAS, often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence.

Key Provisions of Regulation 2025/1988

  • Restriction 82: Sets a concentration threshold of 1 mg/L for the sum of all PFAS in firefighting foams. Products exceeding this limit are prohibited from use and from being placed on the EU market.
  • Mandatory Labelling (from October 23, 2026): Any firefighting foam (excluding portable fire extinguishers) with PFAS concentrations ≥ 1 mg/L must include the following warning label when placed on the market:

"WARNING: Contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) with a concentration equal to or greater than 1 mg/L for the sum of all PFAS".

These measures aim to reduce PFAS exposure through one of its major industrial uses while allowing industry time to adapt formulations.

Who Is Affected?

The regulation primarily impacts chemical manufacturers, suppliers of firefighting products, and users across industrial, municipal, and aviation fire safety sectors. Companies placing PFAS-containing foams on the European market will need to begin preparing reformulations or ensure compliant labelling practices are in place by 2026.

Compliance Timeline

  • In force: October 23, 2025
  • Labelling requirement: Begins October 23, 2026
  • Full restriction applies: From October 23, 2030

Businesses should use the lead time to assess inventories, update technical documentation, and align with long-term product safety goals.

Regulatory Summary

  • Announcement Date: October 3, 2025
  • Link to Regulation: Commission Regulation (EU) 2025/1988
  • Food & Ingredients Impacted: None; applies to firefighting foams
  • Deadline for Public Comments: Not applicable
  • Effective Date: October 23, 2030

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Trace One SDS solution empowers businesses to manage compliant SDS documentation across global markets—helping you proactively navigate PFAS bans and other chemical safety regulations.

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Equip your compliance team with the tools needed to stay efficient, accurate, and fully compliant—no matter how fast chemical regulations evolve.

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