The United Kingdom’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recently announced a public consultation concerning the utilisation of firefighting foams which contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). This comprehensive dialogue, scheduled from 4th April to 3rd June 2024, aims to engage various stakeholders to evaluate the potential risks these substances pose to human health and the environment.

Reassessing the Use of PFAS in Firefighting Foams

Firefighting foams are crucial in battling high-intensity fires, particularly in scenarios involving flammable liquids. However, the integration of PFAS in these foams has raised significant environmental and health concerns. PFAS, known for their persistence, have the potential for widespread environmental dispersion and long-term adverse effects, prompting a re-evaluation of their use in firefighting applications.

Call for Evidence: Objectives and Stakeholder Engagement

The HSE’s call for evidence aims to gather detailed information on various aspects of firefighting foams, including their manufacture, import, usage, and alternatives to PFAS-containing products. It also seeks insights into the environmental fate and waste management of these foams, alongside data on their hazardous properties and the potential barriers to adopting safer alternatives.

Stakeholders, such as manufacturers, importers, professional users of firefighting foams, trade and environmental organisations, and the public, are encouraged to contribute. Participants can submit their evidence through the dedicated survey link provided by the HSE, with an option to attach detailed documents and data to support their contributions.

This consultation represents a critical step in the UK’s efforts to address the environmental and health impacts of PFAS. By collaborating with stakeholders, the HSE aims to develop a well-informed UK REACH restriction report, potentially leading to the introduction of regulations restricting the use of PFAS in firefighting foams within Great Britain.

Importance of Confidentiality in Submissions

The HSE assures participants that all submissions will be treated with confidentiality, in line with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and Freedom of Information Act. Stakeholders are encouraged to explicitly indicate any confidential information in their responses to ensure appropriate handling.

Public Consultation: The Next Steps

The public consultation period offers a unique opportunity for stakeholders to influence the future regulatory landscape regarding PFAS in firefighting foams. With the deadline set for 3 June 2024, all interested parties are urged to contribute to this crucial environmental and public health issue. The findings from this call for evidence will play a pivotal role in shaping the UK’s approach to managing the risks associated with PFAS, reflecting the country’s commitment to safeguarding both the environment and public health.

Potential Impact on Municipal and County Airports

In light of the HSE’s call for evidence, several municipal and county airports may need to reconsider their use of firefighting foams containing PFAS. This decision could have significant financial implications, particularly for smaller commercial service airports. The cost associated with transitioning to PFAS-free foams, including cleaning the chemicals from fire trucks, could be quite challenging for these smaller airports to manage.

Alternatives to PFAS-containing Foams: The Debate Continues

While the transition to PFAS-free foams is the ultimate goal, the effectiveness of alternative foams approved for use by the Federal Aviation Administration remains a point of contention. Some argue that the current PFAS foams, which contain variations of the chemicals believed to be less harmful to humans, are the most effective at extinguishing hot liquid fires in emergency situations. However, this viewpoint is pitted against the urgent need to mitigate the health and environmental risks associated with PFAS.

Conclusion

The UK’s public consultation on the use of firefighting foams containing PFAS is a noteworthy initiative aimed at safeguarding public health and the environment. It signals a shift towards more sustainable firefighting practices, albeit with potential challenges concerning the effectiveness and affordability of alternatives. As the consultation period progresses, it will be interesting to observe the contribution of various stakeholders and the potential impact on the future regulatory landscape surrounding PFAS in firefighting foams.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified professional or expert before making any decisions or taking any action related to the information mentioned in this article.