OHEAP, a leading advocate for sustainable fire safety solutions, welcomes the UK government’s decision to phase out Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS) and Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) in firefighting foams.
In 2014, there were concerns raised regarding the additives (PFOA/ PFOS) used in foam extinguishers. This resulted in a ban on PFOS in the production of foam fire extinguishers more than ten years ago and an almost complete cessation of the use of PFOA. The official, complete ban on PFOA, takes effect on 4 July 2025, aligning it with growing global efforts to eliminate persistent organic pollutants that pose serious environmental and health risks.
The impact of this ban has sent much of the industry into a tale-spin with the misinterpretation of the ban resulting in some companies removing their current PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) or fluorine foam fire extinguishers. Something which OHEAP want to reassure companies, is not necessary currently.
There is further change on the horizon with legislation planned which will result in foam extinguishers that use PFAS being banned. However, this is not expected to be ratified until 2026, with a ban and removal of PFAS extinguishant not likely until circa 2030/31.
Impact on the Fire Safety Industry
The ban will potentially affect the fire protection sector in the future, requiring a transition to fluorine-free alternatives. However, no legal restriction exists on C6 fluorotelomer-based fire extinguishers. The new regulations will prohibit any product containing PFOS, PFOA, or PFHxS above prescribed limits.
As the Fire Industry Association (FIA) advises, organisations should begin to consider proactively transitioning to fluorine-free foams with a view to mitigating environmental impacts.
Managing Director of OHEAP Fire and Security, Nicholas Heap explains “We want to make sure every person responsible for fire safety understands what is banned and when. There are so many mistruths out there, that people are making decisions about fire safety that they may not need to.
The truth is that the ban in July 2025 will not affect many units at all as the chemical that is being banned hasn’t been used for more than 10 years. But the ban is still an important step into creating a greener, safer, more sustainable environment.
At OHEAP, we fully support this initiative and are committed to helping our clients navigate this transition smoothly. As an industry, we must prioritise environmental responsibility without compromising safety standards, and whilst a ban on PFAS is still a way off yet, our team is actively implementing fluorine-free firefighting solutions across our services.”
Planning for the Future
The anticipated timeline for a full ban of the current fluorotelomer chemistry (or PFAS), currently used in
most foam fire extinguishers, may vary by application, with some sectors facing immediate restrictions and others having transition periods extending up to 2030.
In the UK there is currently a consultation underway that is looking into the impact of banning PFAS in firefighting (in all forms) with any resulting restriction not being put in place before 2026. Further information on the use of PFAS can be found on the FIA website.
The Next Generation of Fire Extinguisher
OHEAP Fire & Security have launch an exclusive new HYDREX ECO 3ltr Water ECO Extinguisher. This unit combines a light weight and compact design with a performance of 13A thanks to its PFAS-free wetting agent. Crucially, this means you get the same A class fire rating as a 6ltr Water Fire Extinguisher, but in a much easier to use and store unit.
Whilst PFAS-containing foam fire extinguishers aren’t currently banned, OHEAP Fire & Security are ready for the future of fire safety with this outstanding Hydrex ECO unit – ideal for your class A rating fire cover to accompany your CO2 extinguisher.
