SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 021.24 to provide stakeholders with an overview of the US state of New Jersey’s ban on intentionally added per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foams.
The state governor signed AB 4125 into law on January 8, 2024. This bans the sale, manufacture, distribution and use of Class B firefighting foams (FFF) containing intentionally added PFAS. These are defined in the law as any member of the class of fluorinated organic chemicals containing at least one fully fluorinated carbon atom.
Derogations contained in the new law include:
– Use of PFAS as required by federal law (e.g. 14 CFR 139.317 ‘Aircraft rescue and firefighting: Equipment and agents’)
– Use of PFAS-containing FFF by certain facilities that have fixed foam fire suppression systems for Class B fires (temporary exemption)
– Use of PFAS-containing FFF by oil refineries and petroleum terminals (temporary exemption)
The new law comes into effect on January 8, 2026. However, manufacturers of Class B FFF containing intentionally added PFAS must notify sellers of the provisions of the law by January 8, 2025. They must also, unless authorized, recall products sold after January 8, 2025, within 27 months of the effective date and reimburse the retailer or other purchaser.
Stakeholders are advised to now check their products to ensure compliance with the new law.
SGS Chemical Testing
SGS offers a comprehensive range of testing services to help manufacturers and suppliers ensure their products are safe and comply with national and international regulations concerning harmful chemicals. In the end, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS Chemical Testing Services.
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For further information contact:
Dr. HingWo Tsang
Global Information and Innovation Manager
Tel: (+852) 2774 7420
Melanie Tamayo
Senior Technical Manager, SGS NA.
Tel: + 1 312 414 9394
Email: cp.media@sgs.com
Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines
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