AFFF Foam Extinguisher Ban

The myth

There are several articles online that incorrectly suggest a total ban on AFFF foam extinguishers will come into effect in July 2025.  This is leading to people being worried they must remove all AFFF foam extinguishers from their sites.

The reality

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) extinguishers have been under scrutiny due to trace levels of harmful ‘forever chemicals’, which can have long-lasting environmental impacts if released into the water course. Over a period of time the EU have rolled out a phased ban on certain chemicals. In July, the PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid) compound is the latest to be banned for use in fire extinguishers.

But here’s the key point:

👉 Not all AFFF extinguishers contain PFOA.

In fact, many manufacturers have been phasing out PFOA-containing extinguishers over a number of years. The only way to be sure is to check the datasheet for each model of extinguisher. However, manufacturers have tried to make it easier by branding extinguishers ‘High Performance Foam’, ‘Eco-Foam’ or similar, reflecting updated formulations.

While a total ban on all fluorinated compounds in fire extinguishers is expected, no date has been set yet.  Manufacturers are already preparing by producing fluorine-free foam extinguishers, although they are not yet in widespread use.

What are Howler doing about it?

✅ Howler have not supplied AFFF extinguishers containing PFOA for a number of years.  If you purchased an AFFF extinguisher from us within the last 5 years, it’s unlikely to contain the banned substance.

✅ We now only supply fluorine-free foam extinguishers, so we are well-prepared ahead of the next phase of ban when it comes into force.

✅ During annual maintenance, we’ll replace any non-compliant AFFF extinguishers as a matter of course.

We’re committed to helping you stay ahead of the changes in fire safety regulations at all times.  By being proactive we can help ensure this is done efficiently.

📩 Got a question or want to check your extinguishers?  Send us a photo of the extinguisher in question and we will take care of the rest. Contact us here.