Your AFFF Fire Extinguisher Could Be Breaking the Law

The Hidden Risk in Your Workplace

Many businesses believe their fire extinguishers are still compliant. But a major change in UK fire safety law means that what you have on site today could soon leave you breaking the law.

Old AFFF fire extinguishers containing PFAS chemicals are still found in workplaces across the UK. From 4 July 2025, that will no longer be allowed under UK REACH and POPs legislation.

If you haven’t checked your extinguishers yet, now is the time.

What’s Changed: The UK AFFF Fire Extinguisher Ban

For years, Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) was the standard choice for tackling liquid fuel fires. It was reliable, effective, and widely used.

But AFFF contains PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid). One of the PFAS “forever chemicals”. These substances do not break down, meaning they persist in the environment and build up in soil, water, and even the human body.

The environmental and health risks are now clear. That’s why, from 4 July 2025, it becomes illegal to use, service, maintain, sell, or refill PFOA-based AFFF extinguishers in the UK.

Businesses must replace them with compliant alternatives, such as:

• PFAS-free foam extinguishers
• Water mist extinguishers
• CO₂ extinguishers
• Dry powder extinguishers

Why This Matters for Businesses

If your workplace still has an AFFF foam extinguisher, you could be facing several serious risks:

Regulatory risk

Using or maintaining banned AFFF extinguishers after the deadline could lead to enforcement action and fines.

Insurance risk

Many insurers now check for compliance. Claims could be refused if banned extinguishers are still in use.

Reputation and environmental risk

Continuing to hold or use non-compliant equipment could harm your reputation and send the wrong message about your company’s safety standards.

Being proactive now avoids disruption and protects your compliance later.

How to Stay Compliant

1. Check your inventory – Identify any extinguishers marked as AFFF or containing PFAS or PFOA.
2. Plan replacements early – Don’t wait until the July deadline. Stock will be limited as the deadline approaches.
3. Use a competent assessor – A professional Fire Risk Assessment from The HSRA will identify all non-compliant equipment and recommend safe, legal alternatives.
4. Dispose safely – AFFF extinguishers must be disposed of via an approved hazardous waste contractor.

Taking these steps ensures you stay compliant with UK REACH, POPs, and fire safety legislation.

Stay Ahead of the Law

The HSRA helps businesses across the UK stay compliant with changing fire safety regulations.

Our professional Fire Risk Assessments identify banned equipment, recommend suitable replacements, and ensure your site meets the latest standards.

Don’t risk fines or failed inspections. Book a Fire Risk Assessment today and make sure your workplace is ready before the 4 July 2025 deadline.

Book an assessment

FAQs – AFFF Fire Extinguisher Ban 2025

What is the AFFF fire extinguisher ban?
From 4 July 2025, it will be illegal to use, service, refill, or sell AFFF extinguishers containing PFAS chemicals (such as PFOA) under UK REACH and POPs regulations.

Why are AFFF extinguishers being banned?
They contain PFAS “forever chemicals” which do not break down, contaminating soil and water and posing health and environmental risks.

How do I know if my extinguisher contains PFAS or PFOA?
Check the label. If it says AFFF or mentions PFAS, fluorine, or PFOA, it is affected. A professional Fire Risk Assessment can confirm this for you.

What should I replace my AFFF extinguishers with?
Compliant alternatives include PFAS-free foam, water mist, CO₂, or dry powder extinguishers. The right type depends on your fire risk profile.

Can I still dispose of old AFFF extinguishers after July 2025?
Yes, but only through an approved hazardous waste route. You cannot store or use them after the deadline.

Will keeping old AFFF extinguishers affect my insurance?
Yes. Insurers may view banned or non-compliant extinguishers as a breach of policy conditions, which could affect any fire-related claims.

How can The HSRA help?
The HSRA provides full Fire Risk Assessments that identify banned extinguishers, recommend compliant alternatives, and guide you through safe disposal.