PFAS-free fire extinguishers: Why the switch is becoming relevant now

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS for short, are increasingly the focus of regulation and environmental assessment. For decades, fluorinated firefighting foams were considered to be technically proven. However, new EU regulations are accelerating the phase-out of these extinguishing agents. Now that the European legislative process has concluded, binding deadlines for the end of PFAS-containing products are in place. This makes the issue concrete for manufacturers, operators, and purchasers of portable fire extinguishers. Fluorine-free alternatives are becoming increasingly important. GLORIA took this step early on, converting its entire portfolio to PFAS-free foam and water extinguishers some time ago.

What makes PFAS distinctive, and problematic?

PFAS comprises more than 10,000 individual chemicals. They are water- and grease-repellent, non-flammable, and extremely chemically stable. These properties have made them attractive for numerous industrial applications since the 1940s, including in fire-fighting foams. At the same time, PFAS are extremely durable. They are practically non-degradable in the environment. This means that soil, water, plants and animals can become contaminated for very long periods of time. Removal is considered technically complex and costly.

EU regulation and specific consequences for portable fire extinguishers

Since 2019, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has been working on a ban on fluorinated surfactants in firefighting foams. Following the publication of the draft in spring 2022 and completion of the legislative process, the European Parliament confirmed the proposal. The regulation came into force shortly after its publication in the EU Official Journal, defining binding requirements for the marketing and use of PFAS-containing extinguishing agents.

Clear deadlines apply to portable fire extinguishers. From 23 October 2026, devices containing PFAS-based extinguishing foam will no longer be permitted for sale. However, the sale of certain alcohol-resistant foaming agents will still be permitted until 23 April 2027. From 23 October 2030, the use and placing on the market of PFAS-containing extinguishing foam with a concentration of at least 1 mg/l will be prohibited. Portable fire extinguishers containing such foam may only be used until 31 December 2030. After this date, these devices must be taken out of service or retrofitted.

Additional requirements for other applications

Further obligations will apply to PFAS-containing extinguishing foams in stationary systems from October 2026. Clear labelling, restriction to Class B liquid fires, and comprehensive measures to prevent emissions will be mandatory. There are also documentation and disposal obligations, as well as the requirement to create and maintain a PFAS management plan in the long term.

Fluorine-free fire extinguishers as a future-proof solution

By switching to PFAS-free foam and water extinguishers at an early stage, GLORIA is already meeting future regulatory requirements today. Fluorine-free fire extinguishers can be used long term, offering planning security without the need for subsequent conversion.

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