Regulatory pressure on PFAS is growing in Europe and the U.S. The VDMA online experience-sharing session highlighted current EU restrictions as well as new reporting, labeling, and approval requirements in several U.S. states.
PFAS regulation is evolving rapidly worldwide and poses significant challenges, particularly for companies in the machinery and plant engineering sectors. Against this backdrop, ProduktionNRW and VDMA Nord organized the online experience-sharing event “Update on PFAS Developments in the EU and the U.S.” The goal of the event was to inform companies about current regulatory developments and provide them with practical guidance on how to address the new requirements.
Following the opening remarks, the results of a preliminary survey of the participants were presented. The survey revealed that many companies suspect PFAS are present primarily in components such as seals, fasteners, or sliding systems and are already conducting supplier inquiries. At the same time, many companies still face uncertainty regarding the comprehensive identification of products and materials containing PFAS.
In the first technical presentation, Svenja Heinrich from VDMA Environment and Sustainability provided an overview of the current status of the PFAS restriction initiative in the EU. The focus was on the ongoing regulatory processes, their significance for the industry, and potential impacts on products, supply chains, and innovation processes in the machinery and plant engineering sector. The speaker explained current developments at the European level and addressed the challenges that companies may face as a result of the future structure of PFAS regulation.
Alena Knauz from VDMA Environment and Sustainability then presented the latest developments in PFAS regulation in the U.S. A key focus was on the reporting and record-keeping requirements under Section 8(a)(7) of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). She explained which companies are affected, the reporting deadlines—which have been postponed several times—and the adjustments to reporting requirements planned by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Particular interest was shown in the proposed exemptions for imported articles, byproducts, and certain research and development activities.
In addition, the speaker reported on the growing significance of individual state laws. Using Minnesota as an example, she presented the state’s PFAS reporting requirements, which oblige manufacturers to report products containing PFAS via the PRISM electronic system. Participants gained insights into the status of implementation, as well as the requirements for reporting and documentation, and potential exemptions for so-called “Currently Unavoidable Uses” (CUU).
Another key focus was New Mexico’s new PFAS regulation. The presentation covered the extensive reporting and labeling requirements, as well as potential exemptions for products containing intentionally added PFAS. Particular attention was given to the labeling requirements for so-called “complex durable goods,” which can include numerous machines and technical equipment. In addition, the requirements for CUU applications and potential penalties for violations of labeling or reporting obligations were explained.
The presentation was rounded out with an overview of further regulatory developments in states such as Maine, as well as the varying timelines for future PFAS restrictions in the U.S. It became clear that companies must increasingly adapt their products, supply chains, and reporting systems to a complex and federally structured regulatory environment.
In the ensuing discussion, the speakers answered numerous questions from participants regarding reporting requirements, product exemptions, labeling requirements, and the practical implications of U.S. and European PFAS regulations. The exchange of experiences made it clear that an early overview of the PFAS used, close collaboration with suppliers, and continuous monitoring of regulatory developments are crucial for successfully meeting future requirements.
Organizers
The event was organized by ProduktionNRW and VDMA Nord. ProduktionNRW is the cluster for mechanical engineering and production technology in North Rhine-Westphalia and is managed by VDMA NRW. ProduktionNRW serves as a platform to connect, inform, and promote companies, institutions, and networks with one another and along the value chain. Significant portions of the services provided by ProduktionNRW are funded by the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Protection, and Energy of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia.