In the unlikely event you’ve been keeping an eye on fire safety news (and if not, that’s our job – but it’s still wise to stay on top of regulations and updates), you might have heard about PFAS.
PFAS are Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances. That is, chemicals, often used in fire extinguishers. The EU propose a ban on these chemicals from 2030 – so what’s being done about them here in the UK? And what does it mean for you and your business?
Fire Extinguishers and Chemicals – the Science Bit
When you first glance at the video, or hear about PFAS, you might think it’s another one of those technical doodahs – you know, something only scientists or regulators need to worry about. However, the truth is, this affects us all, and especially when it comes to the fire extinguishers we may have to rely on to keep people and properties safe.
As we said above, yes, it’s our job to know about this stuff and to act on it. However, it makes good sense for you to keep informed, too. Read on and we’ll break it down and explain what’s happening, why it matters, what we’re doing about it – and what YOU need to do about it.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS stands for Per- and Poly-fluoroalkyl Substances. They’re a group of man-made chemicals, known for their water repellent properties, which are used in all kinds of things – from non-stick pans to waterproof clothing. They’re also present in certain types of firefighting foam found in extinguishers, most commonly aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs). AFFFs are used to extinguish flammable liquid fires.
The problem is that PFAS don’t break down easily in the environment. In fact, they’re often known as ‘forever’ chemicals, because they hang around for a very long time. Studies have shown they can build up in people and wildlife, potentially causing harm to health and the environment.
What’s the Problem with PFAS?
The main problem with PFAS is environmental contamination. This is made all the more serious by their longevity.
PFAS can enter the environment through manufacturing processes, the use of PFAS-containing products, and leaching out from landfill. Worryingly, they can contaminate water sources, including drinking water, through industrial discharges, run off from firefighting foam, and other sources. The fact that they can persist in the environment for long periods and accumulate in living organisms – including humans – means action is necessary.
What’s Changing with PFAS and AFFFs?
The government, and many other governments around the world, is tightening the rules around PFAS. In fact, there’s a full UK REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) European Union restriction proposal, already in motion, which may lead to a ban – or certainly a strict restriction – on the use of PFAS-containing foams2.
In a nutshell, that means that certain types of AFFF foam fire extinguishers – those containing fluorine-based PFAS are likely to be phased out or banned entirely. The REACH restriction proposal for PFAS, although focusing initially on firefighting foams, will also explore wider restrictions on uses in textiles, furniture, cleaning products, and other consumer items. The Health and Safety Executive is leading this effort, with support from the Environment Agency. The aim is to address not only the environmental concerns but also the potential health risks associated with PFAS.
What Are the Alternatives?
The good news is that PFAS-free fire extinguishers are already here. And they work. The new-generation fluorine-free foam extinguishers are designed to deliver the same performance on Class A and B fires (that’s solid combustibles and flammable liquids), without the long-term environmental impact. Francis Fire, as the Cheshire Fire Extinguisher Company, is already committed to supplying quality and environmentally friendly PFAS-free Fire Extinguishers. Ours are the industry-leading The Green Range, from our core trade partner CheckFire.
The proposed EU ban on PFAS ‘Forever Chemicals’ is earmarked for December 2030. However, getting ahead, our fire extinguisher ranges, including Commander and CommanderEDGE brands, are now entirely PFAS-free.
All the above ranges are fully Kitemarked to BS EN3 and PFAS-free, underlining our commitment to sustainable, market-leading fire extinguishers here in Cheshire. That means they’re safer for people – and better for the planet. Crucially, they’re just as effective when it really matters. Because that’s what really matters.
Why Our Experience Matters
As a company founded by an ex-fire officer, we know the importance of the right equipment to fight the right fire. We also know how crucial it is to keep on top of changes in legislation, and we constantly tell everyone the importance of siting and servicing appropriate extinguishers properly. Wayne has seen, first hand and too often, the importance of having the right equipment in place – and the dreadful results of not doing so.
That’s why we’ve been following the PFAS discussion closely to ensure our customers stay ahead of the curve. We’ve already started transitioning clients to fluorine-free extinguishers, and we only recommend options we know we can trust in a real emergency. With decades of frontline firefighting experience behind us, we know what works in the heat of the moment. And we’ll never, ever compromise on safety – or on doing the right thing for the environment.
What Should You Do?
If you’re a business owner, landlord, facilities manager or anyone responsible for fire safety, now’s the time to:
- Check your existing extinguishers, particularly if you have AFFF foam types.
- Speak to a trusted fire safety provider such as Francis Fire about upgrading to fluorine-free options.
- Plan ahead. Regulations are changing, and it’s better to be proactive than caught out.
We’re here to help, so if you need advice, or you’re unsure what type of extinguishers you have – or what type of extinguishers you should have – then get in touch and we can go through your options.
We’ll go through everything in plain English with no jargon and no scare tactics – just honest, expert advice from a helpful expert who’s been on the front line.
Fire safety is about protecting assets – and even more important, protecting lives. That’s something we’re proud to take seriously.