On 20 August 2025, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) released the updated 14th edition of its PFAS restriction proposal (“Background Document”). The revision broadens the scope to include eight additional industry sectors and introduces new regulatory pathways.

Key Highlights

1. Expanded Sector Assessments Alternatives and cost implications are now evaluated for:

a. Printing

b. Sealing

c. Machinery

d. Medical (e.g., packaging & excipients)

e. Military

f. Explosives

g. Technical textiles

h. Industrial uses (e.g., solvents, catalysts)

2. New Regulatory Pathway Beyond full bans and exemptions, the proposal introduces “continued use under risk-controlled conditions” — applicable to PFAS use in sectors such as manufacturing, transport, electronics, energy, sealing, machinery, and textiles.

3. Proposed Thresholds

a. 25 ppb: Single PFAS (excluding polymeric PFAS)

b. 250 ppb: Total PFAS (excluding polymeric PFAS)

c. 50 ppm: Total PFAS including polymeric PFAS

d. If >50 mg F/kg, proof required that fluorine is not from PFAS

Next Steps

ECHA’s Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) and Socio-Economic Analysis Committee (SEAC) will review the proposal before submitting a joint opinion to the European Commission. Final restrictions will be determined in consultation with EU Member States.

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