Rhode Island Expands PFAS Ban to Firefighting Protective Gear


Posted June 26, 2025 by BenChristie

SGS highlights that Rhode Island has expanded its PFAS ban to prohibit intentionally added PFAS in firefighting personal protective equipment, effective January 1, 2027.

 
Geneva (June 26, 2025) – SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 087.25, summarizing recent legislative changes in Rhode Island that broaden the state’s restrictions on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

On June 10, 2025, the governor of Rhode Island signed Senate Bill 241 (companion bill H5019) into law. The amendment updates the state’s Consumer PFAS Ban Act of 2024 by prohibiting the intentional addition of PFAS in firefighting personal protective equipment (FPPE), effective January 1, 2027.

Previously, manufacturers and importers of FPPE were only required to disclose the presence of PFAS, with that requirement taking effect in January 2025. The new legislation transitions this disclosure rule into a full ban on PFAS in FPPE, defined to include gloves, helmets, jackets, pants, footwear and respiratory gear designed for firefighting and rescue operations.

This amendment complements Rhode Island’s broader PFAS restrictions on products such as carpets, cookware, cosmetics, outdoor apparel and ski waxes, introduced under the 2024 Act.

SGS publishes SafeGuardS to keep stakeholders informed of important regulatory developments. SafeGuardS 087.25 provides a table summarizing Rhode Island’s recent PFAS-related legislative changes.
Stakeholders are encouraged to review SafeGuardS 087.25 for further details.
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. [www.sgs.com/en/services/chemicals-testing]

SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full Rhode Island, USA, Expands Scope of PFAS Ban to include FPPE SafeGuardS. [www.sgs.com/en/news/2025/06/safeguards-08725-rhode-island-usa-expands-scope-of-pfas-ban-to-include-fppe]

Subscribe today and receive SGS SafeGuardS direct to your inbox. [http://www.sgs.com/subscribes]

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

Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines
LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products

About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.

Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.

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Issued By Ben Christie
Phone 07933 563883
Business Address 1, Mons Calpe
Chitcombe Road
Country United Kingdom
Categories Business , Consumer , Manufacturing
Tags pfas , ppe , fppe , firefighting protective gear , sgs
Last Updated June 26, 2025