On 14 October 2020, the European Commission published its chemicals strategy for sustainability as part of the European Green Deal. The strategy includes an action program to regulate the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The group of substances includes over 10,000 chemicals, which are mainly used in sealants, paints and coatings. They can be found in industrial and household products. In February 2023, five EU member states including Germany submitted a proposal to ban the entire group of PFAS chemicals after a transition period to address the risks they pose to people and the environment. A decision is expected to be taken in 2025.
As a world-leading supplier of products, systems and digital solutions to control all kinds of media, SAMSON is also affected by this ban. We do not directly use PFAS in our production processes. However, certain seals, diaphragms, linings and various other essential parts that we purchase for our products contain PFAS.
We take the toxicity of PFAS very seriously and fully support the objective of the EU's chemicals strategy for sustainability to protect people and the environment against the risks posed by PFAS. Our environmental experts are working with our suppliers at full speed to identify and document all the PFAS contained in our products.
The success of SAMSON is based on our engineering excellence. SAMSON valves, actuators, sensors and other products are state-of-the-art technology and meet the strictest quality and safety standards. As a result, we have no alternative other than to use parts containing PFAS in our range of highly specialized products.
As an industrial company, we have many years' experience with handling a wide range of chemicals and place great importance on quality and safety. We can guarantee that we will continue to safely handle parts that contain PFAS in the future.
Currently, we are taking part in the public consultation to give our opinion on the planned ban on PFAS. We are in regular contact with our business partners and professional associations concerning this subject.