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June 4, 2025 β€’ 2 minute read

One of the most significant sources of PFAS contamination is firefighting foam. When PFAS-containing foams are used in fire emergencies or training exercises, they seep into the ground, contaminating water supplies, soil, and food chains.
πŸ’§ Water Contamination – PFAS chemicals from firefighting foams leach into groundwater and drinking water sources, posing long-term health risks to communities.

🌱 Soil & Wildlife Impact – Once released, PFAS accumulate in soil, affecting plant life and entering the food chain.

πŸ₯ Occupational Exposure – Firefighters and emergency responders are at a higher risk of PFAS exposure due to repeated contact with these foams.

πŸ”Ž Global Action Against PFAS

Governments worldwide are stepping up to restrict or phase out PFAS use:

πŸ“Œ California has banned PFAS in firefighting foams.

πŸ“Œ The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has proposed an EU-wide restriction on all PFAS-containing firefighting foams, with phased transition periods for different sectors.

πŸ“Œ Australia (New South Wales) has introduced regulations to limit the environmental impact of PFAS foams.

πŸ’‘ The Connection to Firefighting: AFFF

One major source of PFAS contamination is Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF), a firefighting foam commonly used for Class A and Class B fires. AFFF has been effective in suppressing flammable liquid fires, but its PFAS content poses long-term risks to human health and the environment.

🌱 A Safer Future: The Shift to PFAS-Free Foam

The fire safety industry is now moving towards fluorine-free firefighting foams (F3)β€”safer alternatives that provide effective suppression without the environmental and health risks of PFAS.

βœ… What Can We Do?

βœ” Stay informed about PFAS risks and their impact on firefighting solutions.

βœ” Support the transition to fluorine-free foams where possible.

βœ” Encourage innovation in fire safety that prioritises both protection and sustainability.

πŸ”₯ ESL’s Certified PFAS-Free Foam Concentrate πŸ”₯

At Emirates Safety Laboratory (ESL), we are committed to advancing safer, sustainable firefighting solutions. Our certified PFAS-free foam concentrate meets the highest safety and performance standards, helping protect people and the planet.

πŸ”— For more information, scan the QR codes

πŸ’¬ What are your thoughts on PFAS-free firefighting foams? Let’s discuss in the comments! πŸ‘‡

#FireSafety #PFAS #Sustainability #FluorineFreeFoam #ESL

For more information, refer to the following links:

https://www.epa.gov/pfas/our-current-understanding-human-health-and-environmental-risks-pfas
https://pfascentral.org/news/california-law-bans-toxic-pfas-from-firefighting-foam
https://echa.europa.eu/-/proposal-to-ban-forever-chemicals-in-firefighting-foams-throughout-the-eu
https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/Your-environment/Contaminated-land/Regulation-of-PFAS-firefighting-foams