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The Changing Rules and Role of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF)

The rules surrounding Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) Fire Extinguishers are shifting due to growing worries about its impact on the environment and health. Businesses that use AFFF for fire suppression now face new challenges as regulations evolve, mainly because AFFF contains per- and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS). These substances are under global scrutiny due to their long-lasting risks.
Here’s a simplified overview of the current state of AFFF and what it means for its users.

What Is an AFFF Fire Extinguisher, and How Does It Work?

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) extinguishers are specially designed to fight fires involving flammable liquids (Class B), like gasoline, oil, and other fuels. In some cases, they can also work on Class A fires, which involve solid materials like wood or paper.

How It Works

When activated, the extinguisher releases a foam made of water, foaming agents, and chemicals. The foam stops the fire in several ways:

  1.  Foam Blanket
    A thick layer of foam covers the burning liquid, blocking oxygen and smothering the fire.
  2. Cooling Effect
    The water in the foam cools the hot surface, lowering the temperature and preventing the fire from reigniting.
  3.  Vapor Barrier
    The foam prevents flammable gases from escaping, reducing the risk of the fire spreading or restarting.
  4.  Quick Coverage
    The foam spreads fast and evenly, making it effective for large fires.

Key Features of AFFF Extinguishers

  • Wide Range: The foam spreads quickly, making it ideal for big liquid fires.
  • Dual Use: Works on both flammable liquids and some solid materials.
  • Common Uses: Found in airports, fuel storage areas, ships, factories, and firefighting vehicles.

However, AFFF contains PFAS, which are raising concerns due to their long-term presence in the environment and potential health risks.

Why Is AFFF Facing Criticism?

PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” stay in the environment and the human body for a very long time. Research links PFAS exposure to health problems like cancer and developmental issues. Because of this, there’s growing global pressure to regulate products that contain PFAS, including AFFF.

The Current State of PFAS in AFFF

In the UK, firefighting foams that use fluorotelomer-based (C-6) chemicals are still legal. Over the past decade, these foams have replaced older, more harmful substances like PFOS (Perfluorooctane sulfonate) and PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid), which are now banned.
However, older fire systems or extinguishers may still have traces of these banned substances, which could exceed current legal limits.

Upcoming Rules on PFAS

In the EU

The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is working on new rules to limit PFAS in firefighting foams:

  • PFHxA Restrictions: Starting in September 2024, new regulations will limit the use of PFHxA in firefighting foams. While portable and fixed fire systems are excluded for now, more restrictions are expected in the future.
  • Impact on the UK: While these rules don’t directly apply in the UK, they may affect export regulations and influence the UK’s own decisions.
    In the UK

The UK’s Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) are drafting similar restrictions on PFAS in firefighting foams. Public consultations are planned for next year.

Timeline:

  • 18 Months: Restrictions for training, testing, and municipal fire departments (except major industrial sites).
  • 5 Years: Rules for portable extinguishers, marine, aviation, and defence use.
  • 10 Years: Restrictions for offshore platforms and large industrial sites.
  • Full Ban: Not expected until after 2030.

Recommendations from the Fire Industry Association (FIA)

The FIA advises businesses to start planning for a switch to fluorine-free firefighting agents, even though there’s no legal requirement yet.
When making the switch, it’s essential to choose alternatives that meet fire safety standards and work with the specific fuels being stored or handled. This ensures fire protection isn’t compromised. The FIA will continue offering updates as new rules are finalized.

In Summary

The move toward PFAS-free firefighting solutions is gaining speed. With new regulations coming in both the EU and UK, businesses need to stay informed and prepare for these changes. Switching to fluorine-free alternatives will not only meet future rules but also help create a safer and more sustainable world.