Understanding PFAS and the Impact on Floor Care

Current & Future Regulations

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)

have been widely used in various industries for decades, including floor care products, due to their resistance to water, oil, and stains. However, growing environmental and health concerns have led to increased regulatory scrutiny and a push towards PFAS-free alternatives. It’s important for product formulators, as well as consumers to understand what PFAS are, why they are being phased out, and the current and future regulations that will impact the floor care industry.

What Are PFAS and Why Is There a Concern?

PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been used in a wide range of consumer products since the 1940s. Known for their durability and resistance to heat, water, and oil, PFAS have been valuable in products like non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, and, notably, floor care products.

However, these chemicals are highly persistent in the environment and human body, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.” Since PFAS do not break down easily, there is now an overabundance saturating the environment and affecting human and animal life.

Alarmingly, studies estimate that over 98% of the U.S. population has detectable levels of PFAS in their blood, a fact that underscores the pervasive nature of PFAS contamination. This widespread exposure is linked to various health issues, including liver damage, thyroid disease, decreased fertility, and an increased risk of cancer. Due to these potential risks, regulatory agencies worldwide are taking steps to limit or ban the use of PFAS in many products.

Current Regulations on PFAS in Floor Care

In response to growing concerns, several countries and regions have implemented regulations to control the use of PFAS:

United States:

• The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been actively working on regulating PFAS. The EPA has set health advisory levels for certain PFAS in drinking water and is working towards establishing enforceable limits under the Safe Drinking Water Act.
• Several states, including California, Maine, Minnesota, and Washington, have enacted laws that restrict the use of PFAS in specific products, including those used in floor care. You can learn more here.

European Union:

• The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has listed PFAS as substances of very high concern (SVHC) under the REACH regulation. The European Union is moving towards a comprehensive ban on the use of PFAS in non-essential applications, including floor care products. Read more here.

International Efforts:

• Countries like Canada and Australia are also taking steps to regulate PFAS, focusing on environmental monitoring and limiting industrial emissions of these substances.

Future Regulations and Trends The regulatory landscape for PFAS is rapidly evolving, with stricter controls expected in the coming years. Businesses in the floor care industry must stay ahead of these changes to remain compliant and meet consumer demand for safer, environmentally friendly products.

• Global Ban: There is a growing momentum towards a global phase-out of PFAS, particularly in non-essential uses. Companies should anticipate stricter regulations and begin reformulating products to eliminate PFAS.
• Consumer Pressure: Beyond regulations, consumer awareness and demand for PFAS-free products are increasing. Brands that proactively offer safer alternatives may gain a competitive edge.

Barentz’s PFAS Alternatives for Floor Care At Barentz, we are committed to supporting our customers in navigating this complex regulatory environment. Our portfolio includes a range of PFAS alternative solutions specifically designed for floor care applications. These alternatives not only meet current regulatory standards but also anticipate future requirements, helping you stay ahead of the curve.

Transitioning to formulations with no intentionally added PFAS can be challenging, but Barentz offers comprehensive support throughout the process. Our team of experts can assist with selecting the right ingredients, optimizing formulations, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

As the push towards the removal of PFAS from products gains momentum, it is crucial for businesses in the floor care industry to understand the current and future regulatory landscape. By staying informed and proactive, companies can not only ensure compliance but also meet the growing demand for safer, more sustainable products.

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Sources:

• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). "U.S. State Resources about PFAS." [EPA.gov](https://www.epa.gov/pfas/us-state-resources-about-pfas)
• European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). "Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)." [ECHA.europa.eu](https://echa.europa.eu/hot-topics/perfluoroalkyl-chemicals-pfas)
• American Chemistry Council. "PFAS Overview." [Americanchemistry.com](https://www.americanchemistry.com/chemistry-in-america/pfas)
• CDC National Biomonitoring Program. "Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances (PFAS) Factsheet." [CDC.gov](https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/PFAS_FactSheet.html)