Fire safety regulations are evolving, and one significant change on the horizon is the phase-out of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) fire extinguishers. By 4 July 2025, the use of AFFF foam extinguishers will be completely banned. Chris Goodman, Fire Safety Manager at Shield Safety explains why AFFF is being phased out, the risks associated with its use, and the alternatives your business should consider for maintaining fire safety.
Why is AFFF Firefighting Foam hazardous?
AFFF foam has been a staple in fighting Class B (flammable liquids) and Class A (flammable solids) fires, once considered the ‘gold standard’ for fire suppression. However, it contains Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and other toxic chemicals from the Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) group, known as ‘forever chemicals’ due to their environmental persistence.
PFAS chemicals do not break down easily and can dissolve quickly in water, spreading through soil, streams, and rivers. This contamination can reach drinking water supplies and food chains, causing widespread environmental damage.
Health risks
PFAS chemicals accumulate in the bodies of animals and humans, increasing in concentration over time. This bioaccumulation can lead to serious health issues, including liver and kidney disease, decreased fertility, cardiovascular disorders, and certain cancers. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has highlighted the adverse health effects linked to PFAS exposure, emphasising the need for regulation.
How are AFFF Fire Extinguishers being phased out?
In May 2019, PFOA was added to the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Regulation, initiating the phase-out process. As of July 2020, the sale of AFFF extinguishers containing PFOA has been prohibited in the UK, and their use for training is no longer allowed. Existing stocks can be used until 4 July 2025, but only under strict conditions regarding containment and disposal, with mandatory notification to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
After this date, the use of AFFF extinguishers will be entirely banned, and any remaining stock must be disposed of properly by an accredited disposal company.
Safe alternatives to AFFF Fire Extinguishers
With the impending ban on AFFF foam extinguishers, it is essential to consider safe and effective alternatives for your organisation’s fire safety needs.
For Class A Fires
- Water Extinguishers: Effective for most common fires involving solid combustibles.
- Water Mist Extinguishers: Versatile and environmentally friendly, suitable for Class A, B, C fires, and fires involving electrical equipment.
- Wet Chemical Extinguishers: Ideal for fires involving cooking oils and fats.
- Dry Powder Extinguishers: Suitable for a variety of fire types, though indoor use requires a specific health and safety assessment.
For Class B Fires
- Fluorine-Free Firefighting Foam (F3): An environmentally friendly alternative that forms a protective layer over flammable liquids, preventing vapor release and suppressing the fire.
- Dry Chemical Agents: Including sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, monoammonium phosphate, and ammonium phosphate, these agents interrupt the chemical reaction of the fire and smother the flames.
- C6 Firefighting Foam: Contains shorter-chain PFAS chemicals, which break down more easily in the environment. However, its safety is still under scrutiny by the EPA.
- Water Mist Extinguishers: Suitable for multiple fire types, including those involving flammable liquids and electrical equipment, offering a non-toxic and easy-to-clean solution.
Why is AFFF being phased out now?
Concerns about PFAS chemicals have been raised for decades, with significant attention since Rachel Carson’s 1960s book, “Silent Spring.” Despite early warnings, regulatory actions have lagged. Major steps began in 2002 when 3M stopped producing PFOS, a PFAS chemical used in AFFF, due to health risks. Subsequent regulations have led to the current phase-out of AFFF foam extinguishers.
It is not recommended to dispose of AFFF foam extinguishers yourself. AFFF extinguishers are considered hazardous wastes.
Instead, the contained AFFF extinguishers should be picked up and transported by a certified hazardous waste disposal company. Accredited companies possess the necessary expertise, resources, and precautions to carry out this process safely and effectively. Your local hazardous waste disposal company should be listed. Alternatively, your Local Authority’s more significant disposal sites may be able to dispose of these extinguishers.
Preparing for the change
Organisations need to act now to comply with the upcoming regulations. Assess your current fire safety equipment and plan for the transition to safer alternatives. Proper disposal of existing AFFF foam extinguishers is crucial to avoid environmental contamination and adhere to legal requirements.
Ensure compliance with our Fire Safety services. Our expert team can guide you through the changes and help you meet regulations. Get in touch today to find out how we can support you in making every day safer.
