The harmful environmental impact of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) is resulting in a shift towards fluorine-free alternatives across the fire industry. Here Mark Thewlis, Operations Director at fire-suppression system providers Alpine Fire Engineers, discusses the implications of updated regulations and explains why taking a proactive approach to the upcoming changes is vital.
Fluorine-containing foam, known as Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), has long been a cornerstone of the fire-suppression industry, particularly in high-hazard sectors like chemical plants, oil refineries, airports and military facilities. These foams are highly effective in combatting flammable liquid fires (Class B fires) and are essential in environments where there is a significant risk of large-scale fires involving fuels and other hazardous materials.
Environmental concerns
Despite their effectiveness, however, AFFF foams contain ‘forever chemicals’, specifically long-chain polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which do not break down in the environment and also pose considerable ecological risks.
The harmful impact of PFAS has caused leading industry bodies to act. In April 2023, the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) published a Risk Management Options Analysis (RMOA) on PFAS, highlighting the environmental and health risks associated with these substances.
Key concerns from the HSE’s analysis include the persistence of PFAS in the environment, and the uncertain long-term impacts on human health and ecosystems. These findings prompted the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) to work alongside the HSE to initiate consultations with the fire industry to gauge the extent of AFFF use in fire-safety systems.
Following these discussions, it now seems likely that a ban on fluorine-containing AFFFs is imminent, with sales likely to be restricted by 2025 and a complete prohibition to come into force by 2030.
Phasing out over time
Indeed, a timeline has already been set out for the future restrictions of PFAS, notably in relation to two specific types of AFFF: C6 and C8:
- 2020: C8 PFAS foam banned for training; testing allowed only if all releases are contained.
- 2021: Mandatory declaration of C8 foam stocks.
- 2023: HSE report confirms PFAS risks; C8 foam use restricted to situations with guaranteed containment.
- 2025: Anticipated restrictions on C6 foam.
- 2030: Prohibition on sales of fluorine-containing AFFF.
It’s therefore clear – thanks to the HSE’s report and the industry’s drive to achieve a greener and cleaner future – that a move to phase out AFFF systems is coming.
Planning for the future
With this in mind, organisations must now proactively plan for a fluorine-free future, and those with AFFF fire systems need to begin taking steps to comply with evolving regulations.
A starting point would be to assess all existing fire-suppression systems and replace any that contain C8 AFFF, as well as preparing to transition away from C6 AFFF. Taking the initiative will help limit costly changes further down the line.
Of vital importance is exploring fluorine-free alternatives like synthetic fluorine-free foams (SFFF). These alternatives often require larger quantities and longer application times, necessitating redesigns of fire-suppression systems, including new sprinkler heads, larger pipes and enhanced water-storage capabilities. Reviewing and testing current systems for compatibility with new foams will ensure they work effectively with existing infrastructure.
Prepare properly with the right partner
Of course, transitioning to a new foam will seem daunting and complex to many. That’s why we’ll be working closely with our customers to help them find the most cost-effective options to ensure system compliance while minimising capital expenditure.
Our experts are poised to advise on regulations too in order to help companies prepare for future restrictions through proactive system evaluations – and redesigns if necessary – to ensure continued compliance, all while maintaining the highest fire-safety standards and delivering effective fire suppression.
As the UK’s leading ESG fire-suppression company, we’re offering free initial consultations to help companies navigate these changes. Contact us at info@alpinefire.co.uk or via 0161 791 4500 for more information. Let’s work together to protect people, property, and the environment.
Our commitment to sustainability
It isn’t just in relation to foam where we’re trying to effect positive change from an environmental perspective. As the UK’s leading specialist in the design and maintenance of active fire-suppression systems, we’re dedicated to championing environmental sustainability, which is demonstrated through initiatives like our Alpine Fire Campaign, launched in 2023.
In partnership with the London School of Architecture (LSA) and the award-winning architecture practice Orms, we initiated a project where LSA students from the 2023/2024 master’s programme were tasked with designing a future-proof fire-suppression system. This dedicated module, informed by workshops with our Operations team, aims to create innovative solutions for sustainable fire suppression.
While working on these future solutions, we are also addressing current environmental impacts. Recognising that billions of litres of drinking water are lost annually in the UK due to mandatory and vital weekly fire-suppression system tests, we are taking action to mitigate this.
Our campaign to reduce, recycle and reuse test water has caught the attention of policymakers, including former DEFRA Secretary and MP, George Eustice. We are working with DEFRA and other public bodies to explore regulatory changes that can address this issue. This initiative not only aims to conserve water but also underscores our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.To learn more about our campaign and see how we provide fire-suppression solutions with a focus on ESG, go to www.alpinefire.co.uk/
About the Author
Mark Thewlis
Mark has a lifelong (30+ years) background in the automatic sprinkler system industry, working with Alpine Fire Engineers for the last 18 years growing with the company and being integral in their current position as one of the largest providers of automatic sprinkler systems and fixed fire protection in the UK.
Mark regularly works with clients to develop specifications and engineered solutions and works with key insurance bodies to ensure risks are mitigated wherever possible in a wide variety of sprinkler applications. Mark has also recently been appointed as lead for the water saving sub-group of the BAFSA technical committee to further water saving in fixed fire fighting systems.
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