Britannia Fire supports UK’s new PFAS incineration capacity review

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionIndustry Comment

Environmental Audit Committee report highlights Britannia Fire waste concerns

The Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) has published a report on perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) calling for the Government to restrict non-essential uses of these chemicals across the United Kingdom.

Andy Spence, Managing Director of Britannia Fire, welcomed the findings following his address to the EAC in the House of Commons during June 2025.

Spence explained: “I welcome today’s report which reflects the thorough and focussed approach taken by the EAC.

“In June last year I was invited to address the EAC in the House of Commons to provide an industry viewpoint on the challenges facing the fire safety industry in achieving a smooth transition away from PFAS firefighting foams.

“The MPs listened carefully to my concerns and have highlighted them within the report, in particular the issue of impending bottlenecks and rising costs for the disposal of PFAS foam waste, with only two approved PFAS incinerating facilities currently operational in the UK.”

The cross-party committee warned that the current incineration capacity is insufficient to handle the expected volume of hazardous waste.

National remediation fund proposed for PFAS cleanup

The EAC report recommends that the Government should apply a polluter pays principle and consult on a national PFAS Remediation Fund by March 2027.

Toby Perkins MP, Chair of the Environmental Audit Committee, stated: “Our report calls for the Government to phase out PFAS uses that are clearly non-essential, such as in kitchen equipment and school uniforms, and to take a precautionary approach to approving new PFAS.

“Rather than waiting for proof that a chemical is harmful before banning it, companies should need approval before they introduce a new PFAS substance.”

Spence noted: “I agree wholeheartedly with the findings that urgent action needs to be taken.

“The UK is lagging behind Europe in restricting the use of PFAS.

“We haven’t kept pace and need to catch up.

“We eagerly await the recommendations from the Health and Safety Executive following a six month consultation on proposed restrictions of PFAS in firefighting foam and hope that swift action to phase them out follows soon after.

“Although the phasing out of PFAS for some essential applications may be challenging, banning PFAS foams in fire extinguishers is an easy win.

“There are PFAS-free foam alternatives already available as effective and affordable replacements, such as Britannia Fire’s P50 ECO model, introduced to the market back in 2024.

“Responsible customers are already beginning to make the switch, which is bringing the issue of safe disposal of PFAS foams to the foreground.”

The committee suggests a phased restriction on non-essential consumer products starting from 2027.

BIOEX launches fluorine-free wildland firefighting foam range

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionProductsWildland Fire

BIOEX presents two wildland foam concentrates

BIOEX has presented its wildland firefighting range, made up of ECOPOL F and BIOFOR, with both concentrates described as 100% fluorine-free and fully biodegradable for forest fire operations.

The French manufacturer BIOEX outlined the range as suitable for wildland firefighting across different terrains, seasons and delivery platforms.

ECOPOL F and BIOFOR are free of PFAs and are described as non-toxic to animals and vegetation.

Both products are stated to comply with current and future environmental regulations including the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Stewardship Program and the European Groundwater Directive.

BIOEX details ECOPOL F applications

ECOPOL F operates at concentrations from 0.1% as a wetting agent to 1% as a foam agent.

Its surfactant technology is described as driving water into burning solids to extinguish embers and reduce re-ignition.

At 0.1% to 0.5%, the product is intended for wetting applications involving vegetation, timber, tyres, plastics, car fires and structure fires.

At 0.5% to 1%, it forms an adhesive foam blanket that clings to vertical surfaces at low, medium and high expansion.

It is also described as suitable for contained Class B hydrocarbon fire scenarios involving diesel, kerosene and petrol.

The concentrate is listed for aerial and ground delivery including airtankers, helicopters, compressed air foam systems and foam proportioners.

A nitrate-free corrosion inhibitor is included alongside a 10-year warranty.

ECOPOL F is listed on the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service QPL and is GreenScreen Certified.

BIOFOR is positioned for year-round use

BIOFOR is designed for wildland firefighting in remote terrain, cold weather and large-scale aerial coverage.

Its Newtonian viscosity enables pumping with standard proportioning equipment and its freeze-protection formula removes the need for heated storage.

The product supports low, medium and high expansion within a single concentrate.

Wetting properties are described as enabling water to penetrate burning solids more quickly, addressing embers at the fire’s core.

It also creates visible firebreaks on the ground to support tactical operations.

The formulation is suitable for use in winter and cold-climate zones without heated storage.

A low concentration rate is described as reducing storage requirements and supporting operational flexibility.

Fomtec confirms INTERSCHUTZ 2026 stand and Enviro NEO showcase

by EventsFeatured NewsFire Suppression

Fomtec at INTERSCHUTZ 2026

Fomtec has invited visitors to meet its team at INTERSCHUTZ 2026 in Hannover, Germany, where it will exhibit in Hall 13 at Stand B20.

The company said its sales team will be available for meetings and questions during the event, and that meetings can be booked in advance through its sales team page.

The company also said it will introduce its newest products at the event, including the Enviro range and Enviro NEO.

Fomtec details Enviro NEO

Enviro NEO is a synthetic fluorine-free firefighting foam (SFFF) for petrochemical, oil and gas, marine and other high-hazard industries.

The company described the product as part of its Enviro Programme and said its development was based on thousands of full-scale fire tests.

It said the formulation uses 100% hydrated polymers, which it says removes issues linked to partially hydrated polymers and unstable viscosity.

According to Fomtec, this is intended to support reliable proportioning and uniform foam performance from initial discharge through to complete extinguishment, including offshore and petrochemical oil and gas environments.

Fomtec lists test standards and applications

Fomtec said Enviro NEO is designed for use with fresh, brackish and seawater.

The company said the product is suited to coastal, marine and offshore installations.

It also said Enviro NEO has been validated through, and beyond, standards including EN 1568, UL 162, ICAO, IMO and LASTFIRE.

The Hannover event will also give visitors an opportunity to discuss the product directly with the company’s sales team.

PFAS timelines clarified as OHEAP advises UK businesses there is no ban

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionHealth and SafetySafety

OHEAP responds to PFAS questions in the UK

OHEAP Fire & Security is advising UK businesses that no PFAS firefighting foam ban currently applies in the country, despite new rules introduced in the European Union.

The company said headlines about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have led some organisations to believe their existing foam extinguishers are no longer compliant.

According to OHEAP Fire & Security, there is currently no legal requirement for any UK organisation to remove or replace PFAS-containing extinguishers.

The firm stated that it is already preparing for possible regulatory change but stressed that current equipment remains compliant in the UK.

OHEAP Fire & Security said it wants customers to avoid unnecessary expenditure or disruption based on mistaken assumptions about EU legislation.

EU PFAS regulation and current UK position

OHEAP Fire & Security explained that the European Union has introduced a PFAS ban under Regulation 2025/1988.

The regulation came into force on 23 October 2025.

It includes a ban on the sale of PFAS-containing foams in the EU after 23 October 2030.

It also requires the complete removal of PFAS-containing extinguishers in EU member states by 31 December 2030.

OHEAP Fire & Security emphasised that these deadlines do not apply in the United Kingdom.

The company noted that the UK Government and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are following their own process.

According to OHEAP Fire & Security, the HSE launched a six-month consultation on PFAS use in firefighting foam on Monday 18 August 2025.

The consultation is scheduled to close on Wednesday 18 February 2026.

OHEAP Fire & Security stated that UK decisions on PFAS in firefighting foam will only be made after this review concludes.

The firm reiterated that, for now, nothing has changed for UK businesses and all existing fire safety equipment remains compliant.

PFAS timelines and planning for UK businesses

OHEAP Fire & Security is calling for calm and clarity from organisations reviewing their firefighting foam provisions.

Nicholas Heap, Managing Director at OHEAP Fire & Security, said: “There is a lot of misinformation circulating, and we want to reassure our customers.

“The UK has not introduced any PFAS ban, and UK businesses do not need to remove or replace equipment at this time.

“OHEAP Fire & Security will guide customers through any future changes in a planned, cost-effective way.”

The company stated that early indications point to the earliest possible UK ban falling in late 2026.

OHEAP Fire & Security reported that a phase-out period of around five years is likely if a UK ban is introduced.

On that basis, the firm said existing PFAS foam extinguishers might not need to be removed until 2031 or later.

The company highlighted that these projected timelines would allow businesses to plan budgets and replacements in a controlled way.

OHEAP Fire & Security added that long notice periods should help organisations avoid unnecessary disruption to operations.

PFAS-free alternatives and ongoing support from OHEAP

OHEAP Fire & Security stated that it is already helping customers prepare for possible future PFAS restrictions.

The company said it is monitoring legislative developments and will provide factual updates as new information becomes available.

OHEAP Fire & Security confirmed it will offer guidance on replacement options only when regulations require change.

The firm outlined that it is already transitioning some organisations to the Hydrex ECO Fire Extinguisher.

According to OHEAP Fire & Security, Hydrex ECO is a PFAS-free extinguisher that is positioned as an environmentally responsible option.

The company said Hydrex ECO allows customers to move towards PFAS-free equipment in line with the direction of anticipated future regulations.

OHEAP Fire & Security added that this approach enables businesses to upgrade at their own pace over a longer term.

The firm stated that it aims to help organisations manage any eventual transition smoothly and in a cost-effective manner.

PFAS decision-making and equipment strategy in the UK

Procurement officers responsible for extinguishers and firefighting foam in UK organisations can use this information to avoid premature replacement of PFAS-containing equipment.

OHEAP Fire & Security’s explanation that current PFAS foam extinguishers remain compliant in the United Kingdom means replacement cycles can be aligned with confirmed regulatory decisions rather than media coverage.

Facility managers in industrial, commercial and public buildings can factor the potential earliest ban date of late 2026 and a likely five-year phase-out into asset planning.

This allows them to phase in PFAS-free extinguishers such as Hydrex ECO Fire Extinguishers alongside normal renewal programmes instead of undertaking immediate whole-site changeovers.

Risk assessors and fire engineering consultants can reference the distinction between European Union Regulation 2025/1988 and the current UK position when reviewing firefighting foam specifications and advising clients.

Fire-protection contractors, system installers and fire engineers can use the projected timelines and OHEAP Fire & Security’s stated support offer to plan service visits, replacement programmes and stock management over several years.

Specialists working with multi-site portfolios across the EU and UK can also separate EU deadlines from UK consultation dates when coordinating equipment strategies in different jurisdictions.

Correction: this article previously incorrectly stated ‘It includes a ban on the sale of PFAS-containing foams in the EU after 23 October 2025.‘

Why the UK’s PFAS foam phase-out demands facilities’ attention now

by Featured NewsFire Suppression

Alpine Fire calls for engagement in UK PFAS foam consultation

Alpine Fire has urged facilities managers and compliance officers to participate in the UK Health and Safety Executive’s consultation on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) firefighting foams before the February 2026 deadline.

The company said the consultation focuses on further restrictions following the government’s July 2025 ban on C8 foam, which contains perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA).

Attention has now turned to C6 foam, a formulation that still includes trace levels of PFOA and remains in use across high-hazard facilities such as oil and gas, petrochemical and offshore operations.

Mark Thewlis, Senior Engineer at Alpine Fire, said: “This consultation marks another key step in the UK’s transition away from PFAS-based firefighting agents.

“While C8 foam has already been phased out, C6 usage may still be necessary in certain high-risk or specialist settings.

“That said, their long-term use is under review, and facilities need to understand both the implications and the alternatives.”

C6 foam faces closer scrutiny

The Environment Protection Agency has stated that it expects the use of C6 foam to be limited in the near future.

Alpine Fire said that while it does not advocate continued widespread use of C6 foam, the company recognises that an informed and gradual transition is essential for maintaining operational safety and compliance.

Thewlis added: “The shift to fluorine-free systems isn’t as simple as swapping one foam for another.

“F3 foam has different viscosity and performance characteristics, meaning some suppression systems will require significant modification.

“Our role is to help clients make the transition safely, effectively, and in line with any upcoming regulation.”

Awareness campaign launched ahead of 2026 deadline

Alpine Fire confirmed it is launching an awareness campaign to publicise the consultation and encourage participation from those working with C6 foam.

The campaign aims to ensure that stakeholders can contribute to shaping the next phase of UK policy on PFAS firefighting agents.

The consultation will run until 18 February 2026.

Facilities managers seeking guidance on the removal of C8 and C6 foams from fire suppression systems are directed to visit Alpine Fire’s website for more information.

Implications for facilities and fire-protection managers

The consultation on PFAS foam regulation has direct implications for facilities managers, compliance officers and safety engineers overseeing high-hazard environments.

Operators using C6 foam within oil and gas, petrochemical or offshore systems may be required to review suppression performance, system compatibility and replacement feasibility in preparation for upcoming restrictions.

Fluorine-free foam (F3) adoption will also demand engineering assessments to account for viscosity differences, storage parameters and discharge rates compared to PFAS-based formulations.

Alpine Fire’s campaign seeks to ensure stakeholders are informed of both the technical and regulatory changes, enabling effective planning for foam removal and replacement before the February 2026 deadline.

Could new firefighting foam replacements change the market?

by Featured NewsFire SuppressionProducts

Capstone withdrawal and HT&K’s response

HT&K’s Anti-Fire Group has announced the launch of HT1157, HT1157D, and HT1470 as replacements for Chemours’ discontinued Capstone fluorosurfactants, according to the company’s statement issued on 27 August 2025.

Chemours stopped supplying its Capstone fluorosurfactants to the firefighting market in early 2025, a move that disrupted foam concentrate formulation worldwide.

HT&K said its new fluorosurfactants are designed as drop-in replacements for Capstone 1157, 1157D, and 1470, allowing use without the need for recertification of existing foam concentrates.

The group confirmed that its products match the actives concentration and fluorine content of the Capstone range.

It added that opportunistic companies had marketed inferior substitutes under similar numbering, but the HT&K formulations are chemically and spectroscopically identical to the originals.

Technical specifications and comparisons

HT&K explained that comparative testing, including surface tension analysis, showed its new products behave in the same way as the discontinued Capstone materials.

It said the results demonstrate that HT1157, HT1157D, and HT1470 function as direct replacements.

Small observed differences were described as normal batch-to-batch variations typically seen within production runs from the same manufacturer.

The company noted that foam properties data are available on request and reinforce the similarity between its formulations and the Capstone products.

Market positioning and product line

According to HT&K, the new fluorosurfactants are part of a wider line of chemicals developed for firefighting foam formulators.

The company stated its aim is to provide equivalent alternatives to products from Chemguard, Chemours, and Dynax.

It said this allows formulators to continue production without requalification of concentrates.

HT&K added that its website contains further details on the replacement products and its wider portfolio.

Background on HT&K Anti-Fire Group

HT&K explained that it was established in 2010, with research and production facilities in Helon, Dongguan, and Qingyuan, China.

The company reported employing 70 staff, with its research and development team holding more than 40 international patents and over 100 years of combined experience in fluorochemicals and polymers.

It formed the Anti-Fire Group in 2019 with a dedicated focus on firefighting chemicals.

Since then, it said it has developed both fluorinated and fluorine-free foam concentrate technologies.

Future development and fluorine-free alternatives

HT&K noted that alongside fluorosurfactant replacements, it continues to develop fluorine-free firefighting foam technologies.

It said it has achieved what it described as “performance-leading” results in this field.

The company indicated that it remains active in research and development to meet changing regulatory and environmental expectations.

It stated that its goal is to establish itself as a technology leader in the firefighting chemical segment.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The discontinuation of Capstone fluorosurfactants has disrupted firefighting foam supply chains.

HT&K’s replacements offer formulators continuity by avoiding the need to recertify existing products.

The company’s development of fluorine-free alternatives aligns with wider industry moves towards reducing reliance on fluorochemicals.

This development is relevant to fire and safety professionals involved in foam specification, procurement, and compliance.

New HT&K firefighting chemicals replace discontinued Capstone products: Summary

HT&K’s Anti-Fire Group has launched HT1157, HT1157D, and HT1470 as replacements for Chemours’ discontinued Capstone fluorosurfactants.

Chemours ended supply of Capstone firefighting products in early 2025.

HT&K said its replacements match the concentration and fluorine content of the originals.

It confirmed they are drop-in substitutes that avoid the need for recertification of foam concentrates.

The company reported surface tension tests showing performance equivalence.

It stated that differences observed were consistent with normal manufacturing batch variations.

HT&K said foam property comparisons are available on request.

The replacements are part of a wider line of firefighting chemicals.

The group was formed in 2019 to focus on firefighting chemical development.

It operates from facilities in Dongguan, Helon, and Qingyuan, China.

The company said its staff hold more than 40 patents.

HT&K is also developing fluorine-free foam concentrate alternatives.

It reported that these have achieved leading performance in tests.

The replacements are available through the company’s website.

HT&K confirmed that product availability and pricing details can be requested directly.

UK firefighting foam ban deadline reached for PFOA-based agents

by Breaking NewsFire Suppression

UK enforces PFOA deadline for fire safety products

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has confirmed that the transition period for removing firefighting foams containing perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) ended on 4 July 2025.

According to the FIA, fixed systems and portable extinguishers containing PFOA-based foam must now be fully decommissioned and replaced.

The PFOA ban does not apply to all fluorinated foams. Products based on fluorotelomer chemistry, which have been standard since 2010, remain permitted.

The FIA said that refilling older equipment with fluorotelomer foam is not compliant if the equipment previously contained PFOA. Trace levels may still exceed legal thresholds.

Any foam product supplied within the past 10 years is not affected by this restriction, the FIA added.

Current legal framework for PFOA and related substances

The FIA guidance explains that PFOA joins PFOS and PFHxS as restricted substances under UK REACH and POPS regulations.

These substances are no longer allowed in concentrations above set thresholds for firefighting applications.

As the guidance states, AFFF formulations containing PFOA were mostly discontinued before 2010, replaced by alternatives using fluorotelomer surfactants.

However, any equipment that previously contained PFOS, PFOA, or PFHxS and was refilled rather than replaced is still non-compliant.

The FIA reiterated that this restriction applies regardless of whether the foam inside has been changed, as system residue may exceed permitted concentrations.

UK regulatory developments and future restrictions

The FIA confirmed that the UK Government is currently consulting on broader restrictions covering per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foams.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) launched an industry consultation in 2024.

A public consultation is expected to follow in 2025.

According to the FIA, any UK-wide ban on PFAS in firefighting foams is unlikely to be implemented before 2026.

The FIA noted that if aligned with draft EU proposals, transition periods of 5 to 10 years could apply depending on the application.

EU legislation and its influence on UK planning

The FIA highlighted two separate REACH restrictions being pursued by the European Union that would affect PFAS use in firefighting foams.

One, published in September 2024 as Regulation (EU) 2024/2462, bans PFHxA in textiles and selected firefighting applications from 2026.

This restriction does not affect the UK directly, although it may influence DEFRA and HSE policy.

A second EU restriction specific to firefighting foam remains pending.

The FIA said that although these do not apply to UK law, they may affect UK manufacturers exporting to Europe.

UK end users and suppliers are advised to monitor developments.

Impact on fire safety products and market preparedness

The FIA warned that any future ban on PFAS could affect a wide range of water-based extinguishing agents including AFFF, wet chemical, and some additive foams.

Such a ban would lead to increased demand for compliant alternatives and disposal services for existing equipment.

The FIA said supply-side challenges should be expected as manufacturers transition away from fluorinated products.

End users and suppliers are advised to begin preparing now for longer-term regulatory shifts.

The FIA concluded that while there is no immediate legal requirement to use fluorine-free agents, early planning is recommended.

UK firefighting foam ban deadline reached for PFOA-based agents: Summary

The Fire Industry Association has confirmed that the PFOA transition deadline ended on 4 July 2025.

All fixed and portable firefighting foam systems containing PFOA must now be removed from use.

PFOA is banned under UK REACH and POPS chemical regulations.

Foams containing PFOA have not been supplied since before 2010.

Fluorotelomer-based foams remain compliant and are not affected by the ban.

Refilling old systems with compliant foam does not meet legal requirements.

UK consultations on wider PFAS restrictions are ongoing.

A public consultation is expected in 2025.

Future bans may affect AFFF, wet chemical, and other foams.

The FIA advises suppliers and users to begin transitioning early.

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.

Reevaluating firefighting foam, with Perimeter Solutions

by Breaking NewsFirefighting Equipment

Mark Siem, Business Development-Industrial/Chemist at Perimeter Solutions, explores the role of Class A and Class B foams, their benefits and how training gaps have influenced their use 

Class A firefighting foam helps make firefighting more effective, improves its efficiency, and introduces other advantages to firefighters. Misconceptions about the technology and its capabilities, and lack of training have contributed to a decline in its use over recent years.

Now, as firefighters seek out new resources to enhance their firefighting efforts, many are reconsidering Class A foam.  

At the same time, advancements in Class B fluorine-free firefighting foams along with evolving regulatory requirements have led to a surge in interest in these solutions.  

The advantages of class a firefighting foam 

The primary advantage of Class A Foam is that it enhances water’s effectiveness in dousing flames. Water’s high surface tension causes it to bead up and roll off most fuels and away from heat too quickly to be able to absorb as much heat as possible.  

Class A foam contains hydrocarbon surfactants, and its addition to water reduces its surface tension, allowing for the solution to penetrate the fuel. When you add a small amount of foam concentrate to water, as low as 0.1%, the size of the water droplets shrinks, creating more surface area, resulting in better heat absorption. The water/foam solution also penetrates deep into Class A fuels (paper, wood, cloth, and some plastics) to stop flames. By increasing water’s effectiveness, foam allows firefighters to achieve more rapid fire suppression using less water—in fact it can increase water efficiency 2-4x.  

Use of foam also reduces the amount of water needed which makes it easier to preserve the scene for arson investigation, increases firefighter safety by shortening knockdown time, reduces the amount of toxins released in the air through combustion and decreases the likelihood of a fire rekindling. 

Dispelling misconceptions about class a foam 

Despite its demonstrable benefits, use of Class A foam has declined partially due to misperceptions. Some people mistakenly believe that Class A foam is fluorinated, but that is not the case. It has been tested and approved for wildland firefighting by the United States Forest Service (USFS), demonstrating its safety and effectiveness.  

An increasing gap in firefighter education has also contributed to the declining use of Class A foams. When Class A foam was initially introduced, fire departments provided extensive training to ensure that all firefighters were well-versed in its application and knew when and how to use it effectively.

Though the focus on education has declined, this is a great opportunity to refresh training efforts to ensure that firefighters are equipped to use foam effectively in their standard firefighting. 

Mark Siem

Many fire departments also perceive water as a free resource, leading to the assumption that adding a foam agent incurs unnecessary costs. In reality, the amount of foam required to create the optimal mixture is minimal—resulting in only a few cents per gallon.

The resulting water savings, additional wear and tear on trucks and fuel consumption, along with the enhanced firefighting capabilities foam provides, make it a cost-effective tool for protecting lives, property, and communities. 

Perimeter Solutions introduced its first Class A foam in the 1980s and today it offers two PHOS-CHEK® options for firefighters: PHOS-CHEK® WD-881 is one of the world’s most widely used Class A foams; and PHOS-CHEK® First Response is a budget-friendly Class A foam concentrate that is effective on a wide range of applications. 

The advantages of Class B firefighting foam 

Class B firefighting foams are designed to combat flammable liquid fires involving gasoline, oil, and other hydrocarbon or polar solvent fuels. These foams form a blanket over the burning liquid, cutting off oxygen and preventing vapor release, which helps to suppress fires quickly and effectively. 

Environmental regulations have led to the introduction of new-generation fluorine-free foam alternatives.

Mark Siem

As Class B foam technology has improved, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) removed mandates requiring the use of fluorinated foams, and the U.S. military committed to phasing out their use in 2024 (except for shipboard applications). Organizations in the oil and gas industry are also actively transitioning to fluorine-free solutions. 

Perimeter Solutions offers a range of SFFF concentrates that meet regulatory environmental standards and deliver superior performance across the aviation, oil and gas, and other industries. Our portfolio includes: SOLBERG® VERSAGARD™ 1×3 AR-SFFF, SOLBERG® VERSAGARD™ 3×3 AS-100, SOLBERG® RE-HEALING™ 3×3 SP-100, and SOLBERG® 3% MIL-SPEC SFFF. 

Closing the knowledge gap with foam training 

Firefighting foam offers several key benefits, including enhanced firefighter safety and improved water efficiency, which reduces fire suppression times. To help address this, Perimeter Solutions offers multiple classes to train firefighters on the use of foam.  

The company’s Know Your Foam training program is available at no cost to fire departments and other fire management agencies across the U.S. and Canada. This three-hour session includes in-class training and outside hands-on application of Class A and Class B foam.

Participants learn the difference between these foams, as well as emulsifiers and water. Instructors demonstrate application techniques, including Roll On, Horizontal Spray, Bounce Off, Application then Reposition, Stitching, and Tending the Blanket.

The session also covers foam systems, foam injection systems, and maintenance of foam application equipment. During the hands-on portion, participants use manual inductors, nozzles, foam tubes, and foam injection systems. 

Perimeter also hosts training sessions to provide airport fire safety personnel instruction on the use of its SOLBERG® 3% MIL-SPEC SFFF solution. The first fluorine-free foam concentrate added to the US Department of Defense Qualified Products List (QPL) and the first on the QPL to be GreenScreen Certified Silver®, SOLBERG 3% MIL-SPEC is designed for fast knockdown and extinguishment of gasoline and Jet A fuel spill fires as identified in MIL-PRF-32725. 

The Perimeter Solutions Industrial Foam School was recently introduced and was designed specifically for industrial firefighters, hazmat teams, and municipal firefighters supporting industrial facilities. The first session will take place May 28-29, 2025, at the Delaware State Fire Academy in Dover, DE. Firefighters attending this course will learn everything they need to know about foam, application techniques for applying fluorine-free firefighting foam, and how to preplan for an incident using firefighting foam.   

Later Industrial Foam School sessions will be held October 9-10, 2025, at Lambton College in Sarnia, Ontario, Canada, and October 28-29, 2025, at The Fire Academy of the South in Jacksonville, Florida, with additional dates and locations to be announced.  

This article was originally published in the April 2025 Edition of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE copy, click here.