Mandatory PFAS testing for firefighting foams and portable fire extinguishers under Commission Regulation (EU) 2025/1988

What’s changing in the EU

Commission Regulation (EU) 2025/1988 introduces a new REACH Annex XVII restriction on PFAS in firefighting foams, including foams used in portable fire extinguishers.

From 23 October 2030, firefighting foams with PFAS at ≥ 1 mg/L (based on the sum of all PFAS) may not be placed on the market or used, unless a specific derogation applies.

Key dates for suppliers, importers, distributors, and operators

• Until 23 October 2026: PFAS-containing foams may still be placed on the market in portable fire extinguishers.
• Until 23 April 2027: PFAS-containing alcohol-resistant firefighting foams may still be placed on the market in portable fire extinguishers.
• From 23 October 2026: the use of PFAS-containing foams at ≥ 1 mg/L (sum PFAS) becomes subject to defined conditions of use in the restriction, and specific labelling requirements apply to certain PFAS-contaning foams placed on the market (with carve-outs stated in the legal text).
• From 23 October 2030: the general prohibition on placing on the market and use applies at ≥ 1 mg/L (sum PFAS), unless a derogation applies.

ALS’ PFAS capability for EU compliance decisions

ALS provides PFAS analysis within the scope of accreditation, designed to support decision-making against Regulation (EU) 2025/1988:

• Targeted determination of individual PFAS
• PFAS precursor detection / screening
• Regulation-aligned interpretation against Regulation (EU) 2025/1988
• PFAS-free conformity assessment support (documentation for tenders, audits, and buyer requirements).

What does ALS’ PFAS testing capability enable?

ALS testing and compliance-focused reporting can help you to:

• Demonstrate compliance and support EU market access
• Identify regulatory risk early against the 2026/2027/2030 milestones
• Support decisions on substitution, withdrawal, reformulation, inventory strategy and commercialization.

Next steps

Need a PFAS compliance testing plan for firefighting foams or portable fire extinguishers?

Please contact your ALS Project Manager or ALS Client Services to discuss sampling options, turnaround times, and reporting aligned to Regulation (EU) 2025/1988.