Responding is Emma Holmberg, product specialist, chemical management, EcoOnline, Gothenburg, Sweden.
As a specialist in chemical management, I get a lot of questions on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. Commonly referred to as PFAS, they’re a group of chemicals used in food packaging, firefighting foam, many industrial processes and more. They’re also referred to as “forever chemicals.” That’s because they don’t break down easily, meaning they can build up in the environment and in an exposed person’s body.
I understand the concern, and there are things related to PFAS that are still not fully clarified. We don’t yet have full agreement on:
- How many PFAS are out there? The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development lists 4,700, while the Environmental Protection Agency counts nearly 15,000 by chemical identity. The difference reflects the fact that PFAS can be defined in different ways.
- What exposure levels are safe? EPA has a drinking water maximum contaminant level, or MCL, for a number of PFAS, which are enforceable standards, although the timeline for full compliance is still ongoing. State-based MCLs vary by level and chemical type.
- OSHA has no PFAS-specific permissible exposure limits yet, but hazard communication for PFAS is required, and factory workers and firefighters have won legal settlements based on product liability and negligence claims.
So, where does that leave businesses that aim to do right by their workers, communities and consumers? The answer: Take action before regulations catch up. Businesses that act early will be better prepared to meet compliance obligations, adapt to supply chain demands and fulfill stakeholder expectations.
We do know enough to take the first step – gain visibility. Leaders must build a reliable inventory of the chemicals in their products and across their supply chains. Without this foundation, there’s no way to assess exposure or demonstrate control. PFAS present a unique challenge because they scale thousands of substances, with new ones emerging regularly. Horizon scanning, continuous monitoring and consistent supplier engagement are key to avoiding blind spots.
Chemical substitution is the next step. To simplify the process of identifying safer alternatives, businesses can use digital chemical management tools that centralize all information about substances and products in one place. These tools enable quick, side-by-side comparisons of multiple products, making it easier to evaluate hazardous properties and spot safer options without manually sifting through data. With clear comparison tables, businesses can make more informed, efficient decisions. Where alternatives are available, substitution can be embedded into approval processes from the start. Where no alternatives exist yet, documenting evaluations and participating in joint research signals accountability and drives further innovation.
Supply chain transparency is critical. Too often, employers only look at what’s currently regulated, missing the bigger picture. Trace levels, gaps in disclosure and multitiered suppliers create hidden risks. Requiring deeper transparency from partners helps employers avoid surprises and build resilience. Additionally, customers will expect proof that PFAS are being managed responsibly, and companies unable to show this risk losing business opportunities.
Finally, there’s reputation. PFAS are no longer just a regulatory issue – they’ve become part of the public conversation. We know increased PFAS regulation is coming. High-profile legal settlements have increased awareness, and the results of a recent survey conducted by Data for Progress shows that more than 70% of Americans want their government to do more to restrict use. Stakeholders expect companies to act with urgency and transparency.
Those who address PFAS early – even acknowledging ongoing challenges – demonstrate leadership. Those who delay may lose trust when change is eventually forced.
PFAS are one of the most complex chemical challenges we’ve seen. Although difficult, proactive steps can help significantly reduce the risks. Leaders can make progress now by improving data collection, integrating substitution into decision-making, pushing for supply chain transparency and communicating openly. These steps not only mitigate regulatory uncertainty but also strengthen long-term competitiveness in a market where accountability and sustainability are becoming defining standards.
Editor’s note: This article represents the independent views of the author and should not be considered a National Safety Council endorsement.
