top of page

Legislative Update: Phasing Out AFFF Foam Fire Extinguishers

Writer's picture: KVFKVF

Phasing Out AFFF Foam Fire Extinguishers

by Callum Doolan-McCullough




Many recent reports and articles have been published regarding the use and the banning of AFFFs (aqueous film forming foams). Unfortunately, this has led to conjecture and false information being passed around, making it difficult to figure out exactly what’s going on.



Below, we explain what’s actually happening with the upcoming ban, how it will affect businesses and whether you actually need a foam extinguisher at all.

 

In 2022, The Environment Agency released a document regarding compliance and advice in relation to PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid) in class B foam extinguishers which suggested that all AFFFs must be removed from service by July 4, 2025. This seems to be where things get misinterpreted; this document primarily targets fire-fighting foams containing PFOS (Perfluorooctane sulfonate), PFOA, and PFHxS (Perfluorohexanesulfonic acid) which are typically found in fixed fire suppression systems and certain foams used by fire brigades.


Current understanding via manufacturers indicates that portable foam fire extinguishers produced from 2016 onwards use AFFF that exclude the restricted chemicals. So, if your current fire extinguishers have been routinely serviced, replaced or refilled every five years, then they are likely to remain compliant; therefore not affected by the new legislation and can still be used beyond the July 2025 deadline.


Further consultation to determine a date for phasing out AFFF in portable fire extinguishers using the component ‘PFHxA’ is underway. However, it’s very unlikely that this will be before 2030, so shouldn’t be an immediate cause for concern.

 

What are AFFF Extinguishers?

AFFF extinguishers are designed to tackle Class A fires (flammable solids like wood, paper, textiles etc) and Class B fires* (flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel, and paint). They achieve this by forming an aqueous film and a foam barrier over the fire.


This foam consists of water mixed with specific chemicals, which enable the foam to spread effectively. The foam creates a thin film over burning liquids, cutting off oxygen and suppressing vapours, which extinguishes the fire. Simultaneously, the foam blanket prevents re-ignition by isolating the fuel from air. Unfortunately, due to them not breaking down easilybut spreading quickly in water, they can cause widespread environmental damage and adverse health effects are thought to be linked to PFAS (Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) exposure.


*It’s worth noting that, while foam extinguishers are great at tackling flammable liquid fires, this is really only the case if the fire is ‘contained’. For ‘running fuel’ fires (spillage of fuel) the foam is not able to create a sufficient barrier on the liquid and will run off of the top, therefore, not effectively tackling the fire and creating even more of a mess.

 

Do I Need Foam Extinguishers?

The short answer is: No, probably not. Foam is primarily designed to tackle Class B fires, which involve flammable liquids in open containers. While they do have their place in some industries, it’s unlikely that the majority of work places will ever require foam - how often are you likely to find an open container of fuel in a hotel/office/shopping centre/hospital etc.?

"But foams also tackles class A fires as well don’t they?" Yes, they do, and so does water - and water is far less messy and a lot more environmentally friendly. It’s also worth pointing out that most foam extinguishers will also be found paired up next to a CO2 extinguisher, which, as well as fighting electrical fires, also tackles class B fires. Unlike foam, CO2 doesn’t leave any mess or require any clean up and is non-toxic.


Why do so many Sites have Foam Extinguishers if they don't need them?

There’s a very long answer to this question, but here’s the short version:


When foams first entered the market in the late 70s / early 80s, they were able to achieve a better fire rating in smaller quantities. This meant that you didn’t need bulky, heavy 9 litre water extinguishers. Instead, you could have a lighter, more compact foam extinguisher and achieve the same rating coverage. However, with the introduction of water sprays, water mists and water additive fire extinguishers in the 90s, water extinguishers also became less bulky and were able to cover the same fire rating.


One reason foams have remained in workplaces and areas that don’t need class B coverage is because extinguisher salesman mostly work(ed) on commission, and foams generally cost more than water. So, the more they sold, the greater their income. Add to this, that some extinguisher technicians completing an annual service may service/replace only what was already in place and not conduct a full, thorough assessment of what is actually needed on site, is another reason that foams have stuck around for as long as they have.

 

Are There Alternatives to Foam?

Yes. When it comes to a Class A fires, a water/water variant will do the job, But for tackling class B fires, other extinguishing agents are available, including:


Dry Powder Extinguishers: Also known as ABC powders, these extinguishers release a chemical powder that interrupts the fire's chemical reaction, making them effective for various types of fires, including Solid fuels (A) flammable liquids (B) and flammable gases (C). They also have an incredibly fast ‘knock down’ rate and work well on running fuel fires. This is why you’ll usually see these at petrol stations.

CO₂ Extinguishers: Carbon dioxide extinguishers work by displacing oxygen and smothering the fire, which makes them suitable for Class B fires and extremely efficient on electrical fires.

Choosing the right replacement depends on the specific fire risks in your environment and the type of materials present. Your extinguisher servicing company should carry out a full assessment of your site at every visit and make you aware of any recommendations and suggest alternatives that are more suitable.

 

Hopefully, the above has helped clear up some of the confusion around what is – and what isn’t- happening with the use of AFFF extinguishers, and offered some clarity about whether or not you actually need a foam extinguisher on your premises at all.  However, If you’re still confused or just can’t be bothered to read through it, I’ll add a brief summary below.

 

Q&A Summary

Q. Do I have to replace my foam extinguishers by July?

A. As long as they’ve been regularly serviced or replaced since 2016, no.

 

Q. Is foam likely to be banned in the future?

A. Almost certainly, but this probably won’t be for another few years.

 

Q. Do I actually need a foam extinguisher?

A. Probably not.

 

Q. Can KVF now provide annual servicing of fire extinguishers by a qualified technician at a very reasonable price?

A. We sure can! To find out more, contact a member of our friendly team on 0330 133 2977 or info@kvf-consultants.co.uk?


Q. Where can I read more about class A & B fire ratings?

 


* Sources:

The UK fire association: www.uk-fa.org/

Fire Industry association (FIA): www.fia.uk.com


Look out for our regular blogs and if there are any subjects you want to see included, let us know at info@kvf-consultants.co.uk


5 views

Recent Posts

See All
bottom of page