Phasing Out of AFFF Foam Fire Extinguishers

22/04/2025

UK to Ban AFFF Fire Extinguishers by July 2025: Key Actions for Organisations

The UK government has confirmed that the use of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) fire extinguishers will be prohibited from 4 July 2025. This decisive move is part of a broader national strategy to eliminate harmful per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as "forever chemicals", due to their persistence in the environment and potential to cause serious health problems.

With the phase-out date approaching, it is essential that organisations begin planning to replace existing AFFF extinguishers with sustainable alternatives and ensure their safe disposal through accredited providers.

Understanding AFFF and Its Environmental Impact

AFFF extinguishers have long been relied upon in industries dealing with flammable liquids, such as aviation, petrochemicals, and heavy industry. They are highly effective against Class B fires by creating a film over the surface of the burning liquid, cutting off oxygen and suppressing flames.

However, the same PFAS chemicals that give AFFF its performance characteristics are now recognised as major environmental pollutants. PFAS compounds are resistant to natural breakdown, leading to long-term contamination of soil and water, and posing risks to both wildlife and human health.

Why Are AFFF Extinguishers Being Banned?

The UK's decision aligns with growing international restrictions on PFAS substances. AFFF extinguishers have been linked to widespread pollution and increasing evidence of serious health concerns, prompting urgent regulatory action.

Environmental Considerations

Persistent Contamination: PFAS remain in the environment for decades and are resistant to degradation.

Water Supply Impact: PFAS have been detected in groundwater and drinking water near industrial and aviation sites.

Bioaccumulation: These substances accumulate in wildlife, disrupting ecosystems and entering the food chain.

Health Risks

Research suggests long-term PFAS exposure can lead to:

Raised cholesterol and cardiovascular risks
Weakened immune system responses
Increased likelihood of certain cancers
Reproductive and developmental health effects
Liver inflammation and potential damage

This growing body of evidence has driven the government to legislate the removal of PFAS from fire protection systems.

Implications for UK Businesses

All organisations using AFFF extinguishers must plan for their complete replacement and disposal before July 2025. Failure to do so could result in regulatory penalties, liability for environmental harm, and non-compliance with fire safety legislation.

Legal and Environmental Compliance
Businesses retaining banned extinguishers after the deadline may be in breach of environmental protection laws and face associated legal consequences. There is also a risk of being held financially responsible for contamination and cleanup costs.

Maintaining Fire Protection Standards
While addressing environmental concerns is essential, businesses must also continue to comply with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, ensuring alternative extinguishers provide effective protection for site-specific fire risks.

Steps to Ensure Compliance with the AFFF Phase-Out

1. Identify and Audit Existing Equipment

Begin by auditing your fire protection systems:

Asset Register: Catalogue all fire extinguishers across premises and identify units marked as AFFF, PFAS, or fluorinated foam.
High-Risk Zones: Pay particular attention to areas where flammable liquids are stored or used, such as plant rooms, refuelling areas, and workshops.

2. Select Safer, PFAS-Free Alternatives

Modern fire extinguishers now offer effective fire suppression without environmental harm:

Fluorine-Free Foam: Designed to suppress Class B fires without the use of PFAS.
Dry Powder Extinguishers: Versatile across Classes A, B, and C; suitable for many industrial settings.
CO₂ Extinguishers: Ideal for electrical fires and clean environments where residue must be avoided.

3. Arrange Certified Disposal

The disposal of AFFF extinguishers must be handled as hazardous waste:

Licensed Contractors: Only accredited waste management providers should collect and process these extinguishers.
Documentation: Maintain thorough records of disposal, including waste transfer notes, certificates, and provider details for compliance purposes.

4. Update Fire Safety Procedures and Training

Replacing extinguishers requires changes to your fire safety framework:

Fire Risk Assessments: Review and revise to reflect changes in fire-fighting equipment.
Employee Training: Conduct refresher sessions to ensure staff are trained in the use of new extinguishers.
Signage and Instructions: Update on-site signage and safety instructions to reflect the changes in equipment and procedures.

In 2023, The FIA published "Guidance on Applicable standards for class B foams" available to download from the FIA here: https://www.fia.uk.com/resourceLibrary/guidance-applicable-standards-for-class-b-foams--pdf.html (external link).

Every effort is made to ensure that the information provided is accurate and up to date as of time of publishing. Any sources of information are stated appropriately. No legal responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions.