New York State has passed a new regulation banning the intentional addition of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to firefighters’ personal protective equipment (PPE). The ban will take effect on January 1, 2028 and aims to improve firefighter safety.
Previously, during the sale of PPE containing PFAS, sellers were required to inform the buyer that it contained PFAS and why it was used. However, Law S3008, passed on May 9, 2025, abolished this disclosure obligation and prohibited the deliberate addition of PFAS in PPE. The ban will also apply if PFAS are present in PPE above a certain threshold.
This step aims to reduce health risks for firefighters and minimize environmental impacts. PFAS chemicals have been linked to serious health problems, such as cancer, and there are growing concerns among firefighters about exposure to these substances. The new regulation is considered an important step towards reducing these risks.
