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22/12/2025 • by Megan Downing
The news surrounding a potential ban on AFFF foam extinguishers has caused a lot of concern and confusion for many UK businesses. This often comes from a misunderstanding about what is actually being banned.
Fire Protection Shop's guide breaks down what is currently restricted, what is still allowed, and how you can stay compliant without needing to spend unnecessary costs.
A full ban on AFFF foam extinguishers has not been introduced to the UK. Existing PFAS-containing foam extinguishers are still compliant, and businesses are not required to remove or replace these at this time.
What has changed is the restriction on certain older chemical formulations.
Since the 4th of July 2025, AFFF foams that contain PFOS, PFOA (C-8) or PFHxS substances are banned. These are commonly found in older foam formulations.
Modern AFFF foams that use fluorotelomer or C6 chemistry do not contain these banned substances, and are hence still compliant with current UK regulations.
In simple terms, there is no requirement to remove all AFFF foam extinguishers, but you must make sure your older foam extinguishers are not made with banned chemicals.
The European Union has introduced a PFAS ban under Regulation 2025/1988, effective from the 23rd of October 2025, which establishes the full removal of PFAS-containing foams by the 31st of December 2030. Allowing organisations time to plan, adapt, and replace equipment gradually as part of normal servicing and upgrade cycles.
The UK is not bound by EU regulation, but if future UK action were ever taken, it would be expected to follow a similar managed, phased approach, giving businesses sufficient time to remain compliant without unnecessary disruption or cost.
This means there is no need to avoid purchasing AFFF foam fire extinguishers today, particularly where they are the most suitable solution for the identified fire risk. For organisations with sustainability or environmental objectives, fluorine-free foam extinguishers can be considered as part of longer-term planning, rather than as a forced replacement.
The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) is conducting a consultation on PFAS use in firefighting foams until 18th February 2026. While no full ban has been announced for AFFF foam in the UK, any future changes are expected to follow the EU's approach and be gradual, with transition periods rather than sudden changes.
Modern AFFF foam extinguishers that do not contain banned chemicals are both safe and compliant with UK fire safety standards.
Like with all fire safety equipment, correct specification, maintenance, and disposal are key to managing any risks responsibly.
To be able to identify if a foam extinguisher is AFFF or fluorine-free, check the extinguisher label or product data sheet. It will be stated here whether the foam is AFFF or fluorine-free.
If information is at all unclear, a reputable supplier should be able to confirm the formulation and advise on compliance.
Fluorine-free foam extinguishers are now widely available and perform effectively in many applications. These products eliminate PFAS entirely and are increasingly chosen by organisations with strong environmental policies.
AFFF foam extinguishers are a reliable and highly effective solution for tackling flammable liquid fires, particularly in higher-risk or industrial environments.
All foam fire extinguishers supplied by Fire Protection Shop contain Modern AFFF formulations that are compliant with current UK regulations.
--> View our range of AFFF foam fire extinguishers
Fluorine-free foam extinguishers offer a PFAS-free alternative and are increasingly chosen by organisations with sustainability or environmental objectives.
--> View our range of fluorine-free foam fire extinguishers
If you are unsure about which type of foam extinguisher is best for your premises, our experts are more than happy to help. Contact us today.
