CheckFire launches new PFAS-free fire extinguisher range in line with EU regulations

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionProducts

CheckFire introduces PFAS-free fire extinguisher range to meet upcoming EU regulations

CheckFire has launched its Green Crosshair PFAS-free fire extinguisher range.

This new line is compliant with the upcoming European Chemicals Agency’s restriction on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foams.

These substances, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” are known for their persistence in the environment and their potential risks to both ecosystems and human health.

The new regulation, expected by December 2030, is aimed at reducing the use of PFAS, including the newly regulated PFHxA.

CheckFire’s product updates ensure that customers remain compliant with these evolving safety standards while maintaining environmental responsibility.

Introduction of the Green Crosshair symbol for PFAS-free products

Earlier this year, CheckFire introduced its Green Crosshair symbol to represent its PFAS-free fire extinguishers under The Green Range.

This symbol will soon be included across all PFAS-free products.

The transition reflects CheckFire’s proactive steps to adapt its offerings ahead of regulatory deadlines.

In addition to launching new products, CheckFire is phasing out legacy items containing PFAS.

Customers are being provided with new fluorine-free alternatives, specifically in the Commander and CommanderEDGE ranges.

These changes are designed to make the shift seamless for customers, who can also utilise an interactive product map for detailed guidance.

Fluorine-free alternatives in the Commander and CommanderEDGE ranges

The new fluorine-free alternatives rolled out in CheckFire’s popular ranges will maintain the same high standards of quality and performance.

CheckFire’s updated portfolio ensures that safety and innovation remain at the forefront, while also offering environmentally friendly options.

The transition has been structured to align with anticipated UK regulations on PFAS, allowing customers to meet future legal requirements without experiencing disruptions in service or equipment performance.

The company’s new interactive map also helps customers to identify which legacy products are being phased out and which fluorine-free replacements are now available.

Commitment to regulatory compliance and environmental responsibility

Cameron Robins, managing director of CheckFire, stated: “Our priority is to provide the highest standard of fire safety equipment while staying ahead of regulatory changes.

“By phasing out PFAS-containing products and introducing fluorine-free alternatives, we’re not only ensuring compliance with upcoming regulations but also reinforcing our commitment to environmental protection.

“Our customers can continue to trust CheckFire for innovative, reliable solutions that meet both today’s needs and tomorrow’s challenges.”

Further details about the rollout of CheckFire’s fluorine-free products will be released in the coming months.

New PFAS-free fire extinguisher range launched by CheckFire: Summary

CheckFire has introduced a new range of PFAS-free fire extinguishers, known as the Green Crosshair line, to comply with upcoming EU restrictions on harmful chemicals in firefighting equipment.

The range is part of a broader effort to phase out PFAS-containing products by 2030, in line with the European Chemicals Agency’s proposed ban on these environmentally persistent substances.

To support this transition, CheckFire is offering fluorine-free alternatives across its Commander and CommanderEDGE ranges, helping customers navigate the change with the aid of an interactive product map.

The company has also introduced the Green Crosshair symbol, which will be used to identify all PFAS-free products in its portfolio.

Government statistics indicate “mixed but hopeful” picture of fire safety in England, says Checkfire

by Featured NewsFire Suppression

Checkfire comments on reduction in fire incidents

The latest government fire and rescue incident statistics for the year ending March 2024 show improvements in fire safety across England.

The data reveals a 3.6% reduction in total incidents attended by fire and rescue services (FRSs) compared to the previous year.

This decrease is largely attributed to a substantial reduction in fire incidents.

Effective fire prevention campaigns, increased community awareness, and favourable weather conditions have contributed to this improvement.

Notably, the decrease in secondary fires and outdoor primary fires marks the smallest number of fires attended since records began.

Decrease in primary fires and fatalities

Primary fires, which pose the most threats to life and property, saw a 7.2% reduction from the previous year.

This highlights the importance of fire safety education, stringent building regulations, and advanced early detection systems.

Toria Jones, head of marketing at CheckFire, commented on the statistics: “Although the slight decrease in fire-related fatalities, from 265 to 251, is a step in the right direction, each loss reminds us of the critical need for ongoing innovation in fire detection, suppression technologies, and rapid response mechanisms.”

Jones emphasized the importance of continued efforts to improve fire safety and the need for adaptive fire risk management strategies in response to changing weather patterns.

Increase in false alarms

While the statistics show positive trends in the reduction of fire incidents, they also highlight an increase in fire false alarms, particularly those caused by apparatus.

This signals an area that requires attention.

Jones noted: “By implementing enhanced maintenance protocols, improving system designs, and educating the public, we can help reduce these disruptions and ensure FRSs’ resources are used efficiently.”

Overall, the latest statistics present a mixed but hopeful picture of fire safety in England.

The decrease in fire incidents and fatalities reflects the impact of dedicated fire safety efforts and technological advancements, but challenges remain in managing false alarms and adapting to weather-related risks.

CheckFire Ltd launches eco-friendly enviroFoam fire extinguisher range

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionProducts

CheckFire Ltd, a trade-only fire safety supplier, has announced the release of its latest product innovation, the enviroFoam fire extinguisher range.

This new line is notable for being fluorine-free, addressing growing concerns over the environmental and health impacts of Per- and PolyFluoroAlkylated Substances (PFAS) found in traditional fire extinguishers.

Responding to environmental concerns with fluorine-free solutions

The development of the enviroFoam range represents CheckFire’s commitment to providing fire safety solutions that are not only effective against Class B flammable liquid fires but also environmentally responsible.

PFAS, commonly used in aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) fire extinguishers, have been linked to significant environmental and health risks, prompting increased regulatory scrutiny and bans on certain PFAS chemicals since 2020.

The CommanderEDGE enviroFoam range: safety without compromise

CheckFire’s CommanderEDGE enviroFoam range offers a timely solution to these challenges.

As regulations tighten on the use of PFAS-containing products, the enviroFoam range emerges as an ideal option for businesses seeking to maintain high fire safety standards while also enhancing their environmental stewardship.

Available in 6ltr and 9ltr sizes, these extinguishers are designed to meet the diverse needs of various industries, including industrial warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and laboratories.

Exceeding industry standards with enviroFoam

The enviroFoam extinguishers boast an impressive 27A 183B rating for the 9ltr unit and 27A 144B for the 6ltr, surpassing industry standards for combating Class B fires.

Additionally, the range is certified with the internationally recognised BS Kitemark, affirming its quality and reliability.

A commitment to eco-conscious fire safety

Toria Jones, head of marketing at CheckFire, emphasised the importance of the launch: “With the potential upcoming changes in legislation, we wanted to be prepared with a more eco-conscious product line.

“That’s why we’ve developed our Green Range to support businesses looking to improve their sustainability efforts.”

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of CheckFire Ltd‘s enviroFoam fire extinguisher range marks a significant step forward in the fire safety industry’s journey towards sustainability.

By offering a fluorine-free alternative, CheckFire aligns with emerging legislative trends to meet the growing demand for environmentally friendly fire safety solutions.

This initiative reflects a broader movement within the industry to balance safety with environmental responsibility, providing businesses with the tools they need to protect their premises and the planet effectively.

CheckFire introduces Rapid-10, ensuring people return to work safely

by Products

As the UK continues to ease out of lockdown and people return to the workplace, employers and building owners must consider detailed risk assessment and plan how daily working will continue under government guidelines.

CheckFire have introduced Rapid-10, a new portable sanitising solution with antimicrobial properties for protection of all types of hard surfaces.

An anti-viral surface disinfectant, it’s been laboratory-tested against ‘enveloped’ viruses similar to COVID-19 and achieves a 99.9-99.99% kill ratio across the testing range.

Tested against a number of viruses, including herpes simplex virus type 1, H1N1, HIV and Hepatitis B – it’s proven to kill microorganisms in under five minutes. Plus, Rapid-10’s active ingredient has known virocidal activity against the SARS-CoV variant.

In its large portable unit, with a shoulder strap, this is an easy way to spray sanitise large or small areas. Rapid-10 is also kind on the environment thanks to its all-natural formulation process – containing zero alcohol.

This high-performance antimicrobial agent is suitable for various of different environments, including; offices, warehouses, schools, supermarkets, care homes and wedding venues are safe for workers and visitors. Transport vehicles, like buses and trains, or emergency vehicles can also be sanitised thoroughly within minutes.

For the fire trade, Rapid-10 comes highly recommended. Engineers can benefit from this source of practical, mobile protection as they work across various settings and carry out extinguisher installations and inspections. The spray is simple to use yet puts engineers in control of their own safety and gives them peace of mind they’re leaving behind protected surfaces for further use.

CheckFire recommends Rapid-10 to all returning businesses and work environments. The fire trade can play its part in helping the UK resume as normal a service as possible – while protecting its employees.

www.checkfire.co.uk/