AFIRM 2025 RSL Midyear Update – Version 10.1 Released

SG 170/25

The AFIRM Group published Version 10.1 of the 2025 Restricted Substances List (RSL) on October 31, 2025. The updated list became effective upon issuance.

The AFIRM Group has published Version 10.1 of the 2025 Restricted Substances List (RSL), which became effective on October 31, 2025. While most requirements remain unchanged, several updates have been introduced to simplify testing and maintain alignment with evolving global regulations.

Key updates:

• Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) – the following substances have been removed from RSL v10.1: 10:2 FTI, 12:2 FTI, H2PFDA and the salts of PFOS, PFOA and PFHxS, thereby reducing the number of substances subject to testing
• Updated PFAS test method:
  • Textiles and other materials (excluding leather and polymers): PFAS test method has been updated to EN 17681-1:2025 (with alkaline hydrolysis). Some substances which are hydrolyzed in the alkaline hydrolysis conditions will be reported as the related substances. Examples: 8:2 FTA and 8:2 FTMA will be reported as 8:2 FTOH
  • Polymers test method has been revised to use a modified EN ISO 23702-1:2023 methodology with an updated sample extraction process
  • Leather testing method remains unchanged 
  • New total fluorine screening option (EN 17813:2023) introduced to meet growing market and regulatory expectations
• Ultraviolet (UV) absorbers/stabilizers:
  • UV 329 – added with a limit of 1000 mg/kg, following its inclusion on the EU REACH SVHC list
  • UV 328 – limit tightened to 100 mg/kg under new EU POP restrictions
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs): 2,4-toluene diisocyanate (2,4-TDI) has been removed from the VOC list due to testing challenges
  
   

Associated guidance updates:

• AFIRM PFAS Phaseout Guidance has been revised to align with the new test methods and limits for PFAS and total fluorine
• New AFIRM VOCs Testing Guidance document introduces a practical, semi-quantitative GC/MS headspace screening method covering 16 existing VOCs plus 21 additional high-hazard VOCs 

Brands, suppliers and manufacturers should review material inventories, update testing protocols and collaborate across the supply chain to ensure full compliance with the updated RSL and associated guidance documents.

Reference: 

AFIRM RSL Version 10.1

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