In July 2025, a significant shift took place in fire safety regulations for the UK. PFAS firefighting foams containing PFOA (‘C8’ chemistry) were officially banned, including in stored pressure extinguishers.
This ban is only the beginning. A complete phase-out of all PFAS-containing foam extinguishers is expected in the next 12 months, and the pressure is now on facilities managers, fire safety professionals, and equipment providers to act quickly.
So, what are the alternatives? And how do they compare when safety is on the line?
Why are PFAS foams being banned?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have been used in firefighting foams for decades, including in portable foam extinguishers, because of their ability to rapidly suppress Class B flammable liquid fires.
But they’ve also become known as “forever chemicals”. They don’t break down in the environment and accumulate in groundwater and soil. They've also been linked to serious health risks, including cancer and immune system harm.
Now, governments and regulators are taking firm action, with stored pressure foam extinguishers using PFOA chemistry already banned from sale, refill, or use, and broader PFAS bans fast approaching.
What alternatives are available for foam extinguishers?
The good news? There are proven, effective alternatives on the market, including fluorine-free foam extinguishers.
Fluorine-Free Foam
These extinguishers use next-generation foam concentrates that are free from PFAS, while still providing effective knockdown on Class A and B fires.
Benefits:
✅ Safe for the environment
✅ No long-term chemical persistence
✅ Suitable for offices, retail, schools, public buildings and more
✅ Compatible with existing training and maintenance routines
Water Additive Extinguishers
Water-based extinguishers with additive solutions can offer enhanced suppression on Class A and certain Class B fires, without using any foam at all.
Ideal for:
- Low-risk environments
- Class A fire scenarios where flammable liquids are not present
- Eco-sensitive locations like schools, parks or listed buildings
Dry Powder Extinguishers
Highly versatile and effective across Class A, B, and C fire types, dry powder extinguishers offer a PFAS-free alternative in a compact format.
Pros:
✅ No foam, no fluorine
✅ Suitable for vehicle fires, workshops, and mixed-use areas
✅ Excellent knockdown power
Cons:
- Not ideal for enclosed spaces due to the impact they can have on visibility and complicated clean-up
- Not recommended for use on sensitive electronics
Switching from PFAS: What you need to know
If you still have PFAS foam extinguishers on your site, it’s time to plan their replacement. Here’s how to do it responsibly:
Identify and isolate affected units
Check extinguisher labels for PFOA, C8 or PFAS-based concentrates. Units using these substances are now illegal to service or refill.
Arrange safe disposal
PFAS foams require specialist disposal routes. Firechief® partners can support you with compliant decommissioning.
Select suitable replacements
Match the extinguisher type to your fire risks: fluorine-free foam for Class B fires, or water/powder alternatives for other scenarios.
Train your teams
Application behaviour of different types of extinguishers may differ slightly, so ensure users are familiar with how to use the new extinguishers, if needed.
In addition to our PFAS-free PureSafe extinguishers, the Firechief® range of fire safety products also includes fire blankets, suppression systems, signage and products for all types of fires. For information, call us on +44 (0)330 999 0019 or email sales@firechiefglobal.com.
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Disclaimer
The information contained within this blog is provided solely for general informational and educational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Before taking any actions based upon this information, we advise the reader to consult all relevant statutory or regulatory guidance and, where necessary, to consult a qualified fire or industry regulation professional. The use or reliance on any information contained herein is solely at the reader's risk.