AFFF Foam Extinguishers Banned From 4th July 2025

Sites that have Foam fire extinguishers will need to check which type of foam is contained within them. If the foam is Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) or another type that contains chemicals referred to as PFOA, PFOS or PFAS, these will need to be taken out of service by 4th July 2025 and replaced with a suitable legally compliant alternative.

If you are unsure whether they fall into the banned category, check with your fire extinguisher supplier or service contractor.

Background to the Ban
Perfluorooctanoic Acids (PFOAs) are known as “forever chemicals” due to the lasting harmful impact on the environment. In order to meet its commitment to phase out the use of PFOAs from firefighting products the UK Government has announced that Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) fire extinguishers will be banned for use from 4th July 2025, due to their environmental impact – specifically the presence of harmful chemicals called Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) or Perfluorooctane Sulfonate (PFOS). This ban applies across all premises, including educational settings.

What is AFFF?
AFFF extinguishers are commonly used for Class B Fires (flammable liquids) and Class A Fires (general combustible material). They are identifiable by labels marked ‘Foam’ and may be marked with terms such as ‘AFFF’ or ‘Film-Forming Foam.’ Such extinguishers are often used in science classrooms, plant rooms, workshops, and kitchens.

Is this applicable to your site?

• Yes, if you have any fire extinguishers labelled ‘Foam’ or ‘AFFF.’
• No, if you only have water, CO2, or powder extinguishers, although it is worth reviewing your register and doing a physical check around the site.

What you need to do

1. Check your Fire Extinguishers – Review all extinguishers on site. Identify any labelled Foam / AFFF. Record quantities, locations, and expiry dates.
2. Consult with your Fire Safety Contractor – Arrange for safe disposal and replacement of AFFF extinguishers. Replacements should be environmentally compliant and suitable for the risks present.
3. Review your Fire Risk Assessment – Ensure it reflects the removal of AFFF and any changes to your firefighting provisions.
4. Communicate with Staff – Inform Site Managers/Premises Officers and staff responsible for fire safety of this change. If training includes use of extinguishers, ensure updated guidance reflects replacements.

Deadline:

All AFFF extinguishers must be removed from service by 4th July 2025.

If your fire extinguishers have been regularly serviced, refilled, or replaced every five years, its likely they do not contain PFOS, PFAS or PFOA – but please confirm with your Fire Safety Contractor.

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