With continued headlines about PFAS in firefighting foam and confirmed regulatory changes in the EU, OHEAP Fire & Security is urging UK businesses not to panic. As one of the UK’s leading fire safety specialists, OHEAP Fire & Security is reassuring customers that no UK ban is currently in place, and no UK-based organisation is required to replace PFAS-containing extinguishers at this time.
EU Regulations vs UK Position, Understanding the Facts
The EU has recently introduced a PFAS ban under Regulation 2025/1988, which came into force on 23rd October 2025. This change includes:
A ban on selling PFAS-containing foams after 23rd October 2030
Complete removal of PFAS-containing extinguishers by 31st December 2030
However, these regulations do not apply to the United Kingdom.
The UK Government and the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) are taking their own approach. The HSE launched a 6-month consultation on PFAS use in firefighting foam starting 18th August 2025, which will conclude on the 18th February 2026. Only after this review will decisions be made.
In short: nothing has changed for UK businesses, and all existing fire safety equipment remains compliant.
OHEAP Fire & Security’s Message to UK Businesses: “We’re Here to Help and There’s No Rush”
OHEAP Fire & Security is calling for calm and clarity.
“There is a lot of misinformation circulating, and we want to reassure our customers,” says OHEAP Fire & Security Managing Director, Nicholas Heap. “The UK has not introduced any PFAS ban, and UK businesses do not need to remove or replace equipment at this time. OHEAP Fire & Security will guide customers through any future changes in a planned, cost-effective way.”
As trusted fire safety experts serving thousands of UK organisations, OHEAP Fire & Security is already preparing for potential regulatory updates but stresses that any changes will come with years of notice.
What Could Happen Next?
Although no decisions have been made, early indications suggest:
- The earliest possible UK ban would be late 2026
- A 5-year phase-out period is likely
- Existing PFAS foam extinguishers might not need removal until 2031 or later
This gives businesses plenty of time to plan budgets, schedule replacements sensibly, and avoid unnecessary disruption.
Support From OHEAP Fire & Security
As experts with a 60-year heritage in the fire safety industry, you can rely on OHEAP Fire & Security to:
- Continue monitoring all legislative developments
- Provide clear, factual updates to customers
- Offer expert guidance on replacement options only when required
- Help organisations transition smoothly and cost-effectively if UK regulations eventually change
OHEAP Fire & Security Already Leading the Transition to PFAS-Free Solutions
While no UK ban currently exists, OHEAP Fire & Security has already taken proactive steps to support customers preparing for the long-term future. The company has begun transitioning organisations to the Hydrex ECO Fire Extinguisher, a completely PFAS-free, environmentally responsible alternative that aligns with the regulatory direction expected in the coming years. This ensures that OHEAP Fire & Security customers can upgrade at their own pace, with confidence that their equipment already meets the highest environmental standards and anticipated future requirements.
A Final Word of Reassurance
There is no need to replace PFAS foam extinguishers in the UK right now. Any suggestions to the contrary are misinformation.
As always, OHEAP Fire & Security remains committed to keeping UK businesses safe, compliant, and informed, without unnecessary cost or panic.
About OHEAP Fire and Security
OHEAP Fire and Security has been a trusted name in fire protection and security for over 60 years. Specialising in a wide array of services ranging from fire extinguisher servicing and risk assessments to cutting-edge security technology, OHEAP is committed to providing businesses with the tools they need to protect their people and premises. With the new addition of safety risk management solutions, OHEAP continues to grow and adapt to meet the ever-changing needs of its customers.
For further information, please contact: chrisb@oheap.co.uk
