An analysis of the most pressing concerns based on insights from 1,000 UK business leaders.
17 February 2025
Insights
This move is part of a broader global effort to phase out perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and related compounds—substances commonly found in firefighting foams. These chemicals, known as "forever chemicals," have long-lasting negative impacts on the environment and human health. In this article, the Gallagher Risk Management team breakdown what these changes mean for you.
Forever chemicals
"Forever chemicals" is a term for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a large group of synthetic chemicals that are highly resistant to heat, water, and oil1. These chemicals, including PFOA and perfluoro octane sulfonate (PFOS), have been used in a wide range of products since the 1940s, from firefighting foams to cosmetics and food packaging. Due to their chemical stability, they do not break down in the environment and can accumulate in living organisms, leading to potential health risks. Studies have linked PFAS to serious health issues, including cancer and developmental problems, and their widespread use has left a lasting environmental legacy.
New legislation
The UK Government is actively working to phase out the use of PFOA and its related compounds in firefighting products. This is being done through restrictions on the manufacturing, use, and sale of products containing these substances, as outlined in the UK POPs Regulation (persistent organic pollutants). The phase-out primarily impacts aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) used for Class B fire suppression. These foams, which have been widely used in both fixed and mobile fire suppression systems, rely on PFOA and similar compounds for their effectiveness.
From 1 January 2023, the use of firefighting foam containing PFOA was restricted to locations where all releases of foam can be contained. However, a significant exemption is ending soon. Under current regulations, certain existing stockpiles of PFOA-containing foam were allowed, but this exemption will expire on 4 July 20252. After this date, the use of foam containing these chemicals will be prohibited unless all foam releases are contained.
Your responsibility
As Management, it's crucial to assess your fire safety equipment ahead of the upcoming regulatory changes. Here’s what you need to do to stay compliant and make the transition to safer alternatives3:
Check your foam
Determine if the foam in your fire extinguishers contains PFOA or its related compounds. This can be done by:
- Reviewing the safety data sheet for the foam.
- Contacting the foam supplier or manufacturer.
- Sending the foam to a lab for analysis.
Service and replace extinguishers regularly
If your fire extinguishers are regularly serviced, refilled, or replaced (every five years), they are likely to not contain PFOS or PFOA. However, if your extinguishers are old and have not been serviced or refilled, you should assume they may contain harmful chemicals and take steps for their environmentally responsible disposal.
Manage existing stockpiles
If you have stockpiles of Class B foam containing PFOA or related compounds, be aware of the following regulations:
- Notify regulators: If you hold more than 50kg of firefighting foam containing these chemicals, you must notify the relevant regulator by completing a stockpile notification form
- No use for training: Do not use these foams for training exercises
- Limit testing: Do not use these foams for testing unless all releases can be contained
The phase-out of harmful chemicals from fire extinguishers and firefighting foams is an important step in protecting both human health and the environment. As regulations evolve, it’s essential to stay informed about the chemicals in your fire safety equipment and make any necessary changes before the deadlines. By taking action now, you’ll ensure that your fire safety measures are compliant with upcoming regulations and contribute to a safer, more sustainable future.
How can Gallagher help?
Our specialist team can carry out an audit of your fire risk safety precautions and risk assessments to help protect your organisation and your people. We also provide a range of risk management services, including health and safety, to help you manage your organisation’s risk proactively and meet your legal obligations. By taking this positive approach to your risk management, you may also find it is possible to lower your insurance premiums, improve your terms and reduce your claims.
We are here to protect your charity with adequate insurance coverage, helping to safeguard against unforeseen losses. We will check your insurance to find potential gaps and help ensure that your insurance coverage works for you.
If you would like to speak with our specialist team regarding your fire risk safety or your insurance programme, please get in touch with Gallagher’s Charity Team or call us on 0121 200 4951. We are here to support you.
