Understanding Foam Fire Extinguishers and Recent Regulatory Changes in the UK

Nov 22 2024 9:51AM

As a health and safety consultancy specialising in the supply and servicing of fire extinguishers, staying up to date with the latest regulations is crucial. This blog will provide an overview of foam fire extinguishers, recent changes in UK Regulations, and the transition to environmentally friendly alternatives.

The Role of Foam Fire Extinguishers

Foam fire extinguishers, often referred to as Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) extinguishers, utilise a foaming agent that expands when expelled. This foam forms a blanket over the fire, which serves two primary purposes:

Cooling Effect:

• The water content in the foam cools the burning material, reducing the temperature below ignition point. This cooling effect helps to prevent the fire from reigniting.

​Smothering Effect:

• The foam creates a micro film over the surface cutting off the oxygen supply. This is crucial because oxygen is one of the three elements (along with heat and fuel) required for a fire to sustain itself.

Changes in UK Regulations

Recent updates to fire safety regulations have significant implications for the use of foam fire extinguishers, particularly those containing Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF).

Phase-out of AFFF Extinguisher:

• The UK is phasing our AFFF extinguishers due to environmental and health concerns associated with Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and other Polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) chemicals. These substances, known as “forever chemicals”, persist in the environment and can accumulate in living organisms, posing serious long term health risks.
• As of July 2020, the sale of AFFF extinguishers containing PFOA was prohibited, and their use for training is no longer allowed. By July 2025, the use of AFFF extinguishers will be completely banned, and any remaining stock must be disposed of properly.
   

BS 5306-8: 2023 Updates:

• The British Standard BS 5306-8:2023 has been updated to enhance fire extinguisher guidelines for improved safety and sustainability. This included new guidance on the use of extinguishers in various settings and specific recommendations for handling fire involving lithium-ion batteries.

What to do if you have foam extinguishers in your business

Having foam extinguishers in your business is a great step towards ensuring fire safety. However, it’s important to regularly assess whether they are the best fit for your specific needs. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Evaluate your current fire safety needs: Different types of fire require different extinguishers. Foam extinguishers are effective on Class A and Class B fires. If your business environment has other fire risks, such as electrical, gas (Class C) or Lithium-ion batteries, you might need additional types of extinguishers.
    
2. Consider alternative extinguishers: Depending on your specific fire risks, you might benefit from other types of extinguishers. For example, Fire XO extinguishers are versatile and suitable for Lithium-ion fires, while Water Mist extinguishers are effective for a wide range of fire classes and are safe to use on electrical fires.
    
3. Consult with Fire Safety experts: Our team can help you assess your current fire safety arrangements and suggest the best alternative extinguishers tailored to your individual needs. We consider factors like the type of materials present, the layout of your premises, and specific fire hazards, and training needs
    
4. Upgrade to Fluorine-Free Foam: If you decide to stick with foam extinguishers, consider upgrading to our Fluorine-Free F3 foam extinguishers. These are environmentally friendly and just as effective in combating fires. Fluorine-free foams reduce the environmental impact and comply with the latest safety regulations.
    
5. Regular Maintenance and Training: Ensure that all extinguishers are regularly maintained and that your staff are trained in how to use them correctly. Regular checks and training sessions can make a significant difference in an emergency.

Transitioning from AFFF extinguishers to safer alternatives is a crucial step in protecting both the environment and your business. By following these guidelines, you can ensure compliance with regulations and maintain effective fire safety measures.

For personalised advice and assistance with selecting new fire extinguishers, please contact our team of fire safety experts. We can recommend the best solution tailored to your individual needs, ensuring you have the most effective and compliant fire protection in place.