Stat-X and UltraSense enhance clean energy site protection across Europe

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionSustainability

Why clean energy sites are turning to smarter detection systems

Fireaway has announced the European launch of its UltraSense detection technology, designed to integrate with the company’s Stat-X condensed aerosol fire suppression systems.

The company said the combined system delivers early-stage hazard detection and targeted suppression for high-risk environments.

Fireaway stated that UltraSense can identify thermal and environmental changes before visible ignition, enabling faster and more precise response.

According to the company, this integration is suitable for applications in power distribution, clean energy, battery energy storage systems (BESS), lithium-ion battery storage cabinets, transport, manufacturing and critical infrastructure.

The launch coincides with Fireaway’s twentieth anniversary.

The company said the milestone reflects two decades of work in fire suppression for mission-critical operations.

Focus on certified and reliable performance

Fireaway explained that both Stat-X and UltraSense hold UL certification, while Stat-X also carries UL EU certification under EN15276-1.

The company stated that these certifications confirm compliance with international testing standards for durability, reliability and safety.

Fernando Calha, Technical Expert and Vice President of Sales Europe at Fireaway, said: “Quality and certification are the foundation of reliable fire protection.

“UL and UL EU certification demonstrate not only compliance, but a commitment to performance, safety, and long-term dependability that our customers can trust.”

Fireaway added that its products are developed to meet growing demand for reliable and sustainable fire protection systems across Europe’s clean energy and industrial sectors.

Benefits of the Stat-X system

According to Fireaway, Stat-X units differ from traditional pressurised systems because they are compact and maintenance-free.

The manufacturer said Stat-X does not require a complex piping network and delivers suppression without reducing oxygen levels.

It added that the system’s design allows installation in confined or remote spaces where conventional systems are impractical.

Fireaway stated that Stat-X is used in industries that depend on continuous protection of critical assets and where downtime presents operational risk.

The company said the durable construction of Stat-X ensures reliable performance in extreme conditions.

Intelligent detection supports early intervention

Fireaway described UltraSense as an intelligent detection system that combines thermal monitoring with environmental data to identify risk indicators.

The company said that when used with Stat-X, the system supports early intervention and minimises potential damage.

It added that UltraSense provides real-time diagnostics to support system health monitoring and consistent performance over time.

According to Fireaway, its continued product development aims to exceed performance standards and improve outcomes for operators managing complex or high-value infrastructure.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This development is relevant for engineers, facility managers and system installers responsible for fire protection in clean energy and industrial environments.

The introduction of UltraSense adds early detection capability to the Stat-X suppression platform, creating a combined approach for fire prevention and response in battery storage systems and other high-risk installations.

Because both systems hold UL and UL EU certification, they offer verified compliance with international safety standards, supporting procurement and design choices across regulated industries.

The compact, maintenance-free design of Stat-X may also benefit operators seeking low-maintenance alternatives to conventional pressurised suppression systems.

Sustainability expert joins +impact to support Vision 2030 goals

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsPeopleSustainability

+impact appoints Norman McComb as Sustainability Advisory Director

Appointment supports Vision 2030 sustainability goals

+impact, Serco’s advisory business, has appointed Norman McComb as Sustainability Advisory Director to lead its sustainability agenda in Saudi Arabia.

According to the company, the appointment will strengthen its ability to deliver on the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals.

McComb has more than 20 years of international experience in capital project delivery, climate adaptation and large-scale transformation programmes.

He has contributed to national development, energy and infrastructure initiatives across several regions.

Before joining +impact, McComb served as Sustainability Director at EY Consulting in Saudi Arabia.

At EY Consulting, he advised government entities and large organisations on operationalising sustainability strategies across major infrastructure and national development programmes.

Role to focus on practical sustainability delivery

In his new position, McComb will work with clients across transitioning industries, future cities and critical national infrastructure.

His remit includes translating Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 sustainability ambitions into practical outcomes and embedding sustainability principles across +impact’s services.

The company said that this expertise will also reinforce Serco’s operational contracts and accountability for environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals.

McComb said: “I joined +impact because it’s unlike any other advisory firm — our strategies are shaped by real operational experience.

“It also allows us to draw on Serco’s record in delivering complex government and infrastructure services.

“We don’t just design solutions, we know how to make them work in practice.

“Saudi Arabia’s growth trajectory is at the forefront of the sustainable economic development conversation.

“I look forward to supporting clients in delivering projects that advance national priorities and create a lasting positive impact for future generations.”

Leadership highlights Saudi sustainability momentum

Phil Malem, Chief Executive Officer of +impact and Serco Middle East, said: “We are delighted be expanding our +impact team and welcome Norman to the business at a time when Saudi Arabia is delivering some of the world’s most ambitious sustainability projects.

“His expertise will strengthen our ability to support Vision 2030 by turning ambition into measurable outcomes.”

Brampton builds all-electric fire station in Ward 10

by Americas - Featured NewsFeatured NewsSustainability
Image Credit: The City of Brampton

Construction begins on fire station 215

The City of Brampton has reported that construction has started on Fire Station 215, a new all-electric facility in the city’s northeast.

The 11,377 square-foot site will include two bays, a hose tower, a green roof and solar panels.

The city explained that the facility will be fully electric, including its vehicles, HVAC equipment, building automation systems and infrastructure.

Station 215 is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about 15 tonnes annually.

The project will be located in Ward 10 and is scheduled to be completed by autumn 2026.

The station was designed by Design Partners In Architecture and Interiors.

Sustainability features included in design

The City of Brampton stated that the fire station supports its climate action plan.

It explained that the annual emissions reduction is equivalent to taking four petrol-powered cars off the road or planting 666 trees.

The city added that this approach reflects a broader strategy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels in municipal infrastructure.

It said that rooftop solar, green building systems and electrified operations are part of a long-term environmental investment.

These features are also expected to lower operational costs over the facility’s life cycle.

Anticipated impact on emergency response

The City confirmed that Fire Station 215 will enhance emergency response in the northeast of the city.

Once operational, the new station will reduce response times for nearby residents.

The city explained that faster arrival at incidents is a central goal of the investment, aimed at protecting lives and property.

According to Brampton Fire and Emergency Services, additional capacity in the area will improve coverage during overlapping calls.

It said this will reduce the strain on existing stations in other wards.

City officials comment on the project

Rowena Santos, Regional Councillor for Wards 1 and 5 and Chair of the Community Services Section, said: “This new fire station reflects our commitment to building complete, healthy communities where families feel safe and supported.

“Located in one of Brampton’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods, Station 215 will improve emergency response times and give nearby residents peace of mind.

“It also supports the incredible work of our firefighters, who dedicate themselves every day to protecting lives and property across our city.

“I am proud to see Brampton taking a forward-thinking approach to both safety and sustainability.”

Patrick Brown, Mayor of Brampton, added: “As Brampton continues to grow, we are investing in infrastructure that keeps people safe and supports a greener future.

“Station 215 is a critical addition to our emergency services network and a reflection of our commitment to both public safety and environmental leadership.

“By building a fully electric fire station equipped with solar panels, green infrastructure and electric fire trucks, we will be able to respond faster to emergencies and reduce emissions to build a more sustainable city for future generations.”

Broader city strategy

The City of Brampton explained that Station 215 aligns with its wider infrastructure programme.

It stated that the project builds on earlier investments in facilities and equipment for first responders.

The city said this includes providing updated tools, modern stations and enhanced technology.

It reported that the development is also part of commitments set out in Brampton’s climate goals.

The city added that these commitments focus on reducing emissions while ensuring reliable emergency services.

Community and service integration

According to the City of Brampton, the fire station is designed to serve a rapidly growing part of the city.

It explained that population growth in the northeast has driven the need for expanded emergency service coverage.

The city said that the project aims to integrate community needs with environmental responsibility.

It added that Station 215 demonstrates how public safety infrastructure can be developed with both resilience and sustainability in mind.

The city stated that this approach will remain central to future projects across Brampton.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The City of Brampton’s development shows how new fire stations can integrate sustainability with operational readiness.

For professionals, this highlights the growing expectation that facilities deliver both improved response and reduced environmental impact.

The project also shows how electrification, renewable energy and green building systems are being applied in emergency service design.

It reflects a model that other municipalities may follow as climate policies and service demands evolve.

Brampton fire station set for 2026 completion: Summary

The City of Brampton has reported that construction has started on Fire Station 215.

The project is located in Ward 10 in the northeast of Brampton.

The facility will be a two-bay, 11,377 square-foot site.

It will include electric fire trucks, a hose tower, rooftop solar, and a green roof.

The station was designed by Design Partners In Architecture and Interiors.

The city said the station will be fully electric, including HVAC and building automation.

It explained that the facility will cut greenhouse gas emissions by about 15 tonnes per year.

This is equivalent to removing four petrol-powered cars from the road annually.

It is also equivalent to planting 666 trees every year.

The city confirmed that the project supports Brampton’s climate goals.

The station will enhance response times for residents in the northeast.

It will reduce pressure on existing stations during simultaneous calls.

Officials said it will support the work of Brampton Fire and Emergency Services.

The project is scheduled for completion in autumn 2026.

The station will then be fully operational.

It will support both community safety and environmental goals.

What the latest FSi Promat sustainability data reveals about carbon in construction

by Featured NewsPassiveSustainability

New EPDs published for UK fire safety products

FSi Promat has announced the publication of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for two of its products, reporting verified data on their environmental performance.

According to FSi Promat, the EPDs cover the Pyrocoustic Sealant and Stopseal Coating, both used in fire stopping applications across the UK construction sector.

The manufacturer stated that the declarations were prepared in line with ISO 14025 and EN150804+A2:2019, standards that define third party-verified environmental reporting.

It explained that this step reflects its focus on sustainability in both product development and manufacturing.

The company noted that these publications are intended to support architects, specifiers and contractors with decision-making on material selection.

Environmental performance of Pyrocoustic Sealant

FSi Promat reported that Pyrocoustic Sealant is used to reinstate fire resistance in wall and floor constructions where linear gaps or service penetrations occur.

The company explained that the new EPD sets the cradle-to-gate Global Warming Potential of this product at 1.0 kgCO2-eq./kg.

It added that the total embodied carbon score, across modules A1–A5 and C, is 1.3 kgCO2-eq./kg.

The manufacturer stated that these metrics are provided to allow accurate comparisons with alternative solutions.

It continued that the results show the carbon footprint across both manufacturing and installation phases.

Environmental performance of Stopseal Coating

The manufacturer reported that Stopseal Coating is an ablative coating used with the Stopseal Batt System to reinstate fire resistance in wall constructions with service penetrations.

FSi Promat explained that the cradle-to-gate Global Warming Potential of this coating is 0.7 kgCO2-eq./kg.

It noted that the EPD findings contribute to life cycle analysis of building projects.

The company added that these figures provide designers and contractors with reference data when assessing the environmental footprint of products.

It said that the data reflects a low carbon profile during manufacturing and use.

Manufacturing with renewable electricity

According to FSi Promat, both the Pyrocoustic Sealant and Stopseal Coating are manufactured at its facility in Measham.

The company stated that this facility now runs on 100% renewable electricity.

It explained that this transition forms part of its sustainability programme.

The manufacturer indicated that the move further reduces the environmental impact of its UK production.

It added that this milestone complements the product-level declarations.

Industry perspective on sustainability reporting

Emma Taylor, Marketing Manager at FSi Promat, said: “The addition of the EPDs underlines the dedication at FSi Promat to developing sustainable solutions that continue to meet high standards of safety and performance.

“The cradle-to-gate score is useful when selecting products as it provides a clear picture of its carbon footprint from the raw material right through to installation.

“This information helps users to understand and compare the environmental impact of the products they use, and to make an informed choice.

“Providing transparent environmental credentials, as a result of third-party evaluation, is one of the key ways in which we support architects, specifiers, and contractors towards a safer, more sustainable future. This commitment aligns with the broader construction industry’s shift towards more sustainable building methods.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

Environmental Product Declarations are becoming standard across construction materials, including those for fire stopping.

For fire and safety professionals, access to independently verified sustainability data provides evidence to support compliance with environmental standards and procurement requirements.

The UK facility’s transition to renewable electricity also shows how sustainability targets are now linked directly to manufacturing practice.

Understanding the carbon impact of safety products is increasingly relevant for professionals engaged in project design, approvals and material selection.

FSi Promat sustainability declarations released for UK fire stopping products: Summary

FSi Promat has published Environmental Product Declarations for Pyrocoustic Sealant and Stopseal Coating.

The company reported that these declarations provide verified carbon footprint data.

The Pyrocoustic Sealant has a cradle-to-gate Global Warming Potential of 1.0 kgCO2-eq./kg.

Its total embodied carbon score across A1–A5 and C modules is 1.3 kgCO2-eq./kg.

The Stopseal Coating has a cradle-to-gate Global Warming Potential of 0.7 kgCO2-eq./kg.

Both products are manufactured at the company’s Measham facility in the UK.

The Measham facility now operates using 100% renewable electricity.

FSi Promat stated that these publications follow ISO 14025 and EN150804+A2:2019 standards.

The company said the data supports architects, specifiers and contractors in evaluating product environmental performance.

It added that the EPDs provide transparency through third party verification.

Emma Taylor, Marketing Manager at FSi Promat, said the declarations align with industry shifts towards sustainable building methods.

She stated that transparent data helps project stakeholders make informed choices.

MSA Safety 2024 Impact Report reveals safety, emissions and inclusion strategy

by Featured NewsSafetySustainability

MSA Safety outlines global safety focus in 2024 report

MSA Safety has released its 2024 Impact Report, outlining company-wide actions to support worker protection, safety product development and sustainability.

According to MSA Safety, the report covers the company’s global performance in three focus areas: products and solutions, people and planet.

The company said the report also confirms an estimated 40 million people were protected using MSA Safety technologies in 2024.

The information was published by MSA Safety on 1 August 2025 via its corporate website.

The report highlights ongoing investment in product innovation and workplace wellbeing across the organisation.

Product development highlights include new hard hat and leak detection

The Impact Report features several safety technologies developed by the company for industrial and emergency service users.

MSA Safety said the V-Gard H2 hard hat features lateral impact protection and a vented design to improve airflow in hot conditions.

It added that the Cairns 1836 Traditional Fire Helmet includes a lighter structure, lower riding height and adjustable fit for different head types, hairstyles and headwear.

According to the company, its Bacharach Parasense Connected Enterprise Platform is designed to provide early leak detection and analytics to help reduce compliance costs.

MSA Safety said these systems form part of its wider customer support for safety, reporting and sustainability performance.

The company stated that all innovations are presented as examples of how it aims to meet changing industry and regulatory needs.

Inclusion and psychological safety included under workforce commitments

MSA Safety said it continues to invest in workplace equity and safety through its People programme.

The company said the initiative includes MSA Mosaic, a campaign focused on diversity, inclusion and psychological safety across the workforce.

According to MSA Safety, the scheme supports an environment where all team members are empowered to contribute and develop within the organisation.

It added that physical safety and inclusivity are presented as connected outcomes in the wider effort to sustain high-performance teams.

MSA Safety said this section of the report outlines how internal culture is viewed as part of its external safety mission.

Emissions target and infrastructure plans outlined in Planet section

MSA Safety confirmed that its carbon reduction strategy includes a 42 percent emissions cut in Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 2030.

The company said this is aligned with a 1.5° Celsius pathway for limiting climate change impact, based on international frameworks.

According to the report, MSA Safety is investing in renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure to support this target.

The company said these actions form part of its broader sustainability commitments, measured alongside product and personnel outcomes.

It added that ongoing investment in these areas will continue through 2025 and beyond.

New Impact Metric confirms reach of MSA Safety products

The 2024 report introduces the company’s new safety Impact Metric.

MSA Safety said the metric estimates how many workers are protected by its products each year.

As of 31 December 2024, the company said the number reached approximately 40 million people globally.

Stephanie Sciullo, President MSA Americas, said: “Our impact as an organization is measured by the trust we earn and the worker lives we help protect around the world.

“Every decision we make and every innovation we develop is driven by a singular focus on safety.

“That inspires us to do our best, because we know more than 40 million people count on the MSA Safety brand to help them do their jobs safely every year.

“For us, there is no better purpose than that.”

MSA Safety 2024 Impact Report reveals safety, emissions and inclusion strategy: Summary

MSA Safety published its 2024 Impact Report on 1 August 2025.

The company said the report covers performance in three categories: products and solutions, people and planet.

It said the V-Gard H2 hard hat and Cairns 1836 helmet were developed to meet evolving user safety needs.

It said the Bacharach Parasense platform enables early refrigerant leak detection and compliance tracking.

MSA Safety confirmed a 42 percent emissions reduction target for Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030.

It said workplace inclusion programmes such as MSA Mosaic support an equitable and safe internal culture.

The company introduced a new Impact Metric estimating 40 million people were protected globally in 2024.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue: World Environment Day sustainability efforts

by Featured NewsSustainability

UK fire service highlights carbon cuts on World Environment Day

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service has marked World Environment Day by publishing a detailed account of its environmental practices across its estate and vehicle fleet.

According to the service, which released the information on 5 June, the update reflects ongoing efforts to reduce carbon emissions, cut plastic waste, and improve energy efficiency across its 17 fire stations, headquarters, and support centres.

The service reported a 32% reduction in building-related carbon emissions since 2013, the use of solar panels, smart controls, and LED lighting, and a gradual transition to electric fleet vehicles, with charging infrastructure expanded at multiple sites in recent months.

New fleet strategy includes electric vehicle expansion

The service said 6.9% of its operational and corporate fleet is now electric-powered.

Five additional electric vehicle charging stations were recently installed at its Service Headquarters in Washington, in collaboration with Equans.

This follows the earlier installation of two charging points at Hebburn Tri Station.

The service explained that these vehicles are used for multiple purposes, including by the fire safety team during inspections of residential and commercial properties.

It stated that fleet upgrades are part of a broader policy to integrate sustainability into daily operations.

Hebburn Tri Station recognised for carbon-neutral design

TWFRS highlighted Hebburn Tri Station as a national example of sustainable emergency services infrastructure.

The station houses Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue, Northumbria Police, and North East Ambulance Service.

According to the service, the facility was officially opened in 2023 and has since received awards for environmental performance.

The site includes 345 solar panels, multiple EV and e-bike charging points, and ground source heat pumps.

The organisation said these features make the station capable of generating up to 100% of its operational energy requirements.

Broader environmental measures across the estate

The service said further initiatives include brown food waste bins in kitchens, battery recycling containers, and green electricity procurement.

It also reported that rainwater harvesting systems and stormwater management measures are active at several locations.

TWFRS said all buildings are equipped with infrastructure to reduce plastic consumption, including bins for sorting plastic packaging.

Wildlife areas such as bird and bat boxes, bee hotels, and a wildflower meadow were cited as contributing to a projected 10.75% increase in local biodiversity.

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue: World Environment Day sustainability efforts: Summary

Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service marked World Environment Day on 5 June.

The service published information about its carbon reduction and sustainability efforts.

It reported a 32% reduction in building-related CO2 emissions since 2013.

Electric vehicles now make up 6.9% of the service’s fleet.

Five new charging stations were added at Service Headquarters in Washington.

Two more charge points are available at Hebburn Tri Station.

The fire safety team uses electric vehicles for property inspections.

Hebburn Tri Station is described as the UK’s first carbon-neutral emergency tri-station.

It includes solar panels, ground source heat pumps, and EV charging infrastructure.

TWFRS cited biodiversity measures such as bird boxes and wildflower areas.

Recycling, waste reduction, and water conservation programmes are in place across all sites.

Veolia introduces PFAS treatment solution in UK

by Breaking NewsFire SuppressionHealth and SafetySafetySustainability

UK ban prompts new AFFF treatment rollout

Veolia has launched a high-temperature PFAS treatment service to manage Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) fire suppressants before their use is banned in the UK in July 2025.

According to Veolia, the company expects up to 10,000 tonnes of stored PFAS-containing AFFF to require safe disposal. The treatment will be carried out at its Ellesmere Port High Temperature Incinerator (HTI), approved by the Environment Agency.

The new service forms part of Veolia’s global BeyondPFAS programme and aims to support producers and users in safely disposing of AFFF stocks held across sectors including petrochemical, aviation and emergency services.

High temperature incineration process approved by regulator

The HTI process will destroy PFAS materials using thermal treatment at 1100 degrees Celsius.

Veolia stated that the facility has been validated by the Environment Agency, which has also approved the associated monitoring and emissions testing procedures.

The company projects a treatment efficiency of 99.999% for AFFF and other PFAS-containing wastes. The site is equipped to manage items such as fire extinguishers, suppressants and a wide range of industrial materials.

Broader PFAS disposal capacity beyond fire safety

Beyond firefighting applications, Veolia confirmed the HTI facility can also accept PFAS materials from sectors including chemical manufacturing, building and construction, metal finishing, semiconductors, textiles and paper products.

The company noted that the treatment infrastructure is part of a wider hazardous waste service that includes collection, incineration, recycling and reuse.

According to Veolia, this network currently treats around 8 million tonnes of hazardous waste annually across over 300 sites globally.

Veolia’s UK service aligns with global PFAS strategy

Nicola Henshaw, Managing Director Hazardous at Veolia UK, said the rollout supports wider regulatory developments:

“The regulatory landscape surrounding PFAS is rapidly evolving, with increasing scrutiny and stricter controls being implemented globally.

“Veolia is committed to staying at the forefront of these developments and providing our clients with effective, safe and compliant solutions for managing PFAS contamination.

“Aligned with our GreenUp strategy which positions Veolia as a leader in decontamination, we are utilising our expertise and comprehensive range of technologies to enable us to address the complex challenges posed by PFAS and contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment.”

The company’s BeyondPFAS service offers detection, testing and disposal based on local laws and technical requirements.

Veolia stated this global service draws on more than 100 years of experience in hazardous waste and decontamination.

Veolia introduces PFAS treatment solution in UK: Summary

Veolia has launched a new PFAS treatment process at its Ellesmere Port facility.

The process is designed to treat AFFF fire suppressants before a UK ban takes effect in July 2025.

The Environment Agency has approved the high-temperature incineration method used.

Veolia estimates 10,000 tonnes of PFAS materials are stored at user and producer sites.

The system operates at 1100 degrees Celsius with 99.999% treatment efficiency.

The treatment is part of Veolia’s global BeyondPFAS programme.

The site also accepts PFAS waste from construction, chemicals, textiles and electronics.

Nicola Henshaw of Veolia UK said the service supports evolving global regulations.

The company currently handles 8 million tonnes of hazardous waste per year.

It operates more than 300 treatment facilities across five continents.

F3 foams and water safety concerns: Fire service urged to lead foam selection

by Fire SuppressionSustainability

F3 foam use may still conflict with US EPA PFAS standards

The Foam Exposure Committee has reported that firefighting foams listed as F3 by GreenScreen may still contain up to 1 ppm (1,000,000 ppt) of total organic fluorine.

According to the Committee, this level exceeds the US Environmental Protection Agency’s (USEPA) maximum limits for specific per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are set at 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS in drinking water.

The Committee stated that despite being marketed as fluorine-free, the foams can contain detectable levels of total organic fluorine, raising questions about their compatibility with current water safety policies.

Committee asserts that foam decisions should rest with fire services

The Foam Exposure Committee stated that the USEPA does not approve or certify firefighting foams.

It added that the responsibility for foam selection lies with fire services, which it described as best placed to evaluate performance, safety, and operational needs.

The Committee said: “The best decision maker for choosing a firefighting foam is the fire service.”

Third-party tests confirm class A and B fire performance

The Foam Exposure Committee’s F3 foam concentrate list includes products tested under third-party standards, such as NFPA 18 and European Norm (EN) protocols.

According to the Committee, foams like Novacool, Fire Cap Plus and Phos Chek WD881 were tested under NFPA 18 for Class A and B fire use, while Ecopol 3 and Ecopol A met EN fire performance standards.

It also listed Pyrocap B-136 and Enviro Class A as having been qualified under the USDA QPL for Class A fires.

Total fluorine tested using PIGE method

The Foam Exposure Committee stated that testing for total fluorine in the F3 foams was conducted using particle-induced gamma ray emission spectroscopy (PIGE).

PIGE allows for the detection of fluorine compounds even at low concentrations, supporting the Committee’s findings of up to 1 ppm of total organic fluorine in these products.

This testing method does not differentiate between individual PFAS compounds but measures overall fluorine content, which can include a wide range of fluorinated substances.

F3 foams and water safety concerns: Summary

The Foam Exposure Committee reported that GreenScreen-listed F3 foams may contain up to 1 ppm of total organic fluorine.

The USEPA has set a 4 ppt limit for PFOA and PFOS in drinking water.

The Committee noted that this discrepancy could present safety challenges.

It clarified that the USEPA does not approve firefighting foams.

The Committee stated that fire services should decide which foams to use.

Third-party testing confirmed Class A and B fire suitability for multiple foams.

Tests referenced include NFPA 18, EN protocols and the USDA QPL.

Total Fluorine testing was conducted using PIGE spectroscopy.

This method identifies total fluorine levels but not individual PFAS chemicals.

CORRECTION: This article was updated to clarify that the Foam Exposure Committee tested for total fluorine using particle-induced gamma ray emission (PIGE) spectroscopy. This differs from the total organic fluorine standard used by GreenScreen as originally stated.