Phasing Out
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) fire extinguishers are being phased out in the UK due to environmental and health concerns related to their chemical components, particularly perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and other per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as “forever chemicals.” These substances are persistent in the environment and have been linked to serious health issues, including cancer and liver damage.
Key Details on the Phase-Out
Legislation and Timeline:
The UK is expected to prohibit the manufacture and sale of AFFF fire extinguishers containing PFOA by **4 July 2025**, with a complete ban on their use following shortly after.
Since **January 2023**, the use of AFFF foam has been restricted to scenarios where all released foam can be fully contained, severely limiting its use in most commercial settings.
Extinguishers containing PFOA should have been removed from service by the end of **2022**, unless proper containment was ensured.
Why the Phase-Out?
AFFF contains PFAS, including PFOA, which are environmentally persistent and toxic. These chemicals contaminate soil, water, and ecosystems, posing risks to human health and the environment.
Earlier bans on related chemicals, such as perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) in 2011 and halon-based extinguishers in 2003, reflect a broader trend of phasing out harmful firefighting agents
Current Status
Many AFFF extinguishers in use since **2015/16** may contain C6-based PFAS (e.g., PFHxA), which have shorter carbon chains and are less harmful but still under review for potential restrictions. A phase-out of PFHxA-based foams is anticipated by **2030**
Some manufacturers, like Safelincs and Britannia, have already discontinued AFFF extinguishers, and companies like Johnson Controls stopped producing fluorinated foams by **June 2024**
Alternatives:
**Fluorine-Free Foam (F3)**: Environmentally friendly and effective for Class A and B fires, forming a protective layer without PFAS.
**Water Mist Extinguishers**: Suitable for Class A, B, C, and electrical fires; non-toxic and easy to clean.
**Dry Powder Extinguishers**: Effective for multiple fire types, though indoor use requires health and safety assessments
**CO₂ Extinguishers**: Suitable for Class B and electrical fires, often paired with other alternatives.
**Wet Chemical Extinguishers**: Ideal for Class F fires (cooking oils and fats).
Disposal
AFFF extinguishers are classified as hazardous waste and must be disposed of by certified hazardous waste disposal companies via high-temperature incineration to prevent environmental contamination. Local authorities or accredited companies can assist
Businesses are advised to avoid stockpiling AFFF and to notify regulators if holding more than 50kg of PFOA-containing foam.
Recommendations
Check existing extinguishers for PFOA or PFHxA content (safety data sheets from suppliers can confirm this).
Begin transitioning to fluorine-free alternatives, especially during routine servicing or five-year discharge testing, to spread costs and ensure compliance.
Consult with fire safety experts or suppliers to ensure alternatives meet specific fire risk requirements.
Clarifications:
Not all foam extinguishers are banned; only those containing PFOA or other restricted PFAS are targeted. Modern AFFF with C6-based foams (e.g., PFHxA) remains legal but may face future restrictions.
The UK Fire Association notes that confusion stems from ambiguous Environment Agency guidance in 2022, which primarily targeted foams in fixed systems and fire brigades, not necessarily portable extinguishers made after 2015/16.
Critical Note:
While the phase-out is driven by environmental and health concerns, the regulatory process has been criticized for being slow despite decades of warnings about PFAS risks (e.g., since Rachel Carson’s *Silent Spring* in the 1960s). The gradual transition and exemptions for certain uses (e.g., large industrial sites until 2030) suggest a balance between safety and practical challenges, but some argue this delays necessary action. Always verify the chemical composition of your extinguishers and stay updated on regulations, as further PFAS restrictions are likely.
For the latest guidance, check with the Environment Agency or consult resources like the Fire Industry Association’s September 2024 update. If you need specific advice, contact a fire safety professional or your extinguisher supplier.