AFFF, or Aqueous Film Forming Foam fire extinguishers have always been used in offices, schools and warehouses because they were the best option for fire-fighting. However, these extinguishers are now being phased out as they are harmful to the environment. They can also cause health risks and this is making businesses look for safer alternatives.

Why They’re Harmful

AFFF foam extinguishers contain chemicals known as PFAS or Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances. These are often called forever chemicals because they don’t break down in the environment and they can contaminate water, soil and the air.

If people are exposed to these chemicals, they could face serious health risks like problems with their immune systems and damage to organs like the liver, thyroid and heart. These chemicals are also known to cause cancer.

Changing Regulations

The UK and European Union have begun to introduce stricter regulations on PFAS chemicals. Older versions of these extinguishers have already been withdrawn and new legislation is being introduced to limit the manufacture and use of PFAS-containing products. If businesses continue to use these products, they may face legal issues in the future.

Rising Cost of Disposal

Unfortunately, the disposal of AFFF foam extinguishers isn’t simple because it needs special facilities and high-temperature incineration. There are only a few facilities in the UK that are equipped to handle this kind of waste and prices are expected to continue rising as the demand grows.

Safe Alternatives

Businesses should change to using environmentally friendly alternatives like fluorine-free foam and water mist extinguishers. Many of these newer models are also designed to be sustainable, use recyclable materials and have a longer lifespan, thereby reducing both their impact on the environment and long-term costs for businesses. P50 fire extinguishers, such as the examples seen at https://www.lsfiresolutions.co.uk/fire-extinguishers/ecoextinguishers/p50, are an eco-friendly alternative to the AFFF foam extinguisher.

Reducing the use of AFFF foam extinguishers will prioritise human health and environmental protection while still promoting fire safety. The long-term benefits of switching to safer fire extinguishers will soon outweigh the costs of maintaining outdated and potentially harmful equipment.