PFAS in firefighting foam
Firefighting foams are a major source of PFAS contamination
Source PFAS pollution
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are often found in certain types of firefighting foams, especially in foams used to fight fires involving liquid fuels, such as oil and gasoline fires. This type of firefighting foam is known as AFFF (Aqueous Film-Forming Foam).
The use of PFAS in firefighting foam is a major topic of discussion due to environmental and health risks. More and more industries and fire departments are facing the challenge of switching to more sustainable alternatives. The foam transition is currently underway.
PFAS in firefighting foam
The key points
Below you will find key points about the use, risks and future of PFAS in fire-fighting foam.
1. Use of PFAS in firefighting foam
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PFAS are added to firefighting foams because of their ability to form a film that covers the fuel and prevents oxygen from reaching the fire.
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This makes it effective for fighting fires that are difficult to extinguish, such as those caused by flammable liquids.
2. Environmental and health risks
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PFAS are persistent in the environment and can accumulate in water, soil and organisms.
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Exposure to PFAS has been linked to several health problems, including:
- cancer (e.g. kidney and testicular cancer)
- liver problems
- hormonal disturbances
- strengthening of the immune system
3. Regulation and policy
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Due to the risks, there are increasing regulations and guidelines that restrict the use of PFAS in fire-fighting foam.
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Many fire departments and companies have switched to PFAS-free alternatives or are investigating these options.
4. Pollution
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The use of PFAS-containing fire-fighting foam has led to contamination of groundwater and other environmental components, especially near airports and industrial sites where fire-fighting foam is often used.
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Efforts are underway to remediate contaminated sites and assess their impact on public health.
5. Alternatives
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PFAS-free firefighting foam formulations have been developed that are effective in fighting fires without the harmful effects of PFAS.
Fluorine-free fire-fighting foam
The transition to fluorine-free firefighting foam (F3) is an important step towards more sustainable fire protection. However, this transition requires thorough preparation, because it has consequences for fire safety policy and fire risk analyses. Consider the implementation of technical adjustments and attention to the environmental aspects of the old and new foam.
Essential steps
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Determine whether the new foam is suitable for the different fire scenarios.
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Determine whether and which adjustments are necessary to existing fire extinguishing systems to achieve optimal mixing of the extinguishing agent with the extinguishing water.
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Use test extinguishing to determine whether the alternative, fluorine-free foam actually performs as specified by the manufacturer or certifying organization, and test things like foam spread, foam strength, and throw length. Often multiple batches of foaming agent are tested to eliminate quality differences.
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If the alternative foam proves effective, decide to replace the fluorinated firefighting foam.
Deep cleaning
When switching to F3, thorough cleaning of equipment is crucial. Research has shown that industrial cleaning with water, steam and/or detergents does not sufficiently clean the extinguishing system.
Our solution
Our advanced cleaning method does clean pipes, tanks and vehicles properly and completely. The manufacturer of our cleaning agent has shown that no rebound occurred over an 8-month period.
Choose a sustainable and safe future
With our expertise you can make the transition to fluorine-free firefighting foam efficiently, safely and in accordance with the highest environmental standards. Contact us for more information!
