***Page Updated 02 December 2024***
Significant changes are on the horizon for fire safety regulations that will impact businesses, homeowners, and institutions. The use of fluorine-containing fire extinguishers will be restricted, with a full ban on these extinguishers coming into place in the years to come.
These changes are part of a global shift toward reducing harmful environmental and health impacts caused by fluorine compounds. Here’s what you need to know to stay compliant and make the necessary adjustments.
Why Are Fluorine-Based Fire Extinguishers Being Phased Out?
Fluorine, particularly in the form of perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) and polyfluorinated compounds (PFAs), has been widely used in fire suppression agents due to its excellent ability to put out fires quickly. However, extensive research has shown that these chemicals pose serious environmental and health risks.
Governments worldwide, in alignment with environmental and public health goals, are now moving to phase out products that contain these harmful compounds, including fire extinguishers. This aligns with broader efforts to reduce the use of fluorine-based chemicals in industries ranging from firefighting to non-stick coatings and packaging.
What Are the Key Deadlines?
The upcoming regulatory changes will unfold in two main phases, with the exact dates yet to be determined:
Restrictions Begin: Date TBC, the sale of new fluorine-containing fire extinguishers will be discontinued. While existing extinguishers may still be used during this period, businesses and property owners are encouraged to begin transitioning to safer, environmentally friendly alternatives.
Full Ban: Date TBC, all fluorine-containing fire extinguishers will be banned across all fire classes and types. This means that after this date, no fluorine-based extinguishers can be legally used, and all remaining units must be replaced or properly disposed of according to local waste management regulations.
“It is unlikely that any UK restriction will be in place prior to 2026. Any transition periods would likely be similar to those in the proposed EU restriction i.e. 18 months for firefighter training/system testing and Municipal Fire Brigades (except use at large industrial sites), 5 years for portables, marine uses, aviation and defence, 10 years for offshore, and major industrial sites (COMAH/Seveso III). It is unlikely that we’ll see any total ban for all applications prior to 2030 at the earliest.” Source: The FIA Guidance PDF
What Should You Do To Prepare?
Fluorine-based fire extinguishers only need to be replaced at the end of their current 5-year lifecycle. There are now several alternatives available that do not use fluorine, but are just as effective in firefighting. Water mist, foam and powder extinguishers can often be suitable replacements, depending on the type of fire risk in your environment.
If your extinguisers are coming towards the end of their life cycle, Churches have got you covered. As an existing customer, we will replace your extinguishers at the end of their 5 year cycle, unless instructed to do so sooner, with an environmentally friendly alternative.
Environmentally Friendly Alternatives
Several effective and safer alternatives to fluorine-based extinguishers are already available on the market:
- Water Mist: These are highly effective for Class A (solid materials like wood and paper) and offer environmental benefits because they use deionized water, leaving no harmful residue.
- Dry Powder: Ideal for Class B (flammable liquids) and Class C (flammable gases) fires, these extinguishers offer a versatile, eco-friendly solution for various fire risks.
- Foam (fluorine-free): Suitable for Class A and Class B fires, modern foam extinguishers no longer need to rely on fluorine compounds and can be just as efficient as their predecessors.
Stay Compliant, Stay Safe
The upcoming restrictions of fluorine-containing fire extinguishers are a significant step forward in protecting both public health and the environment. While the initial transition might require some investment in new equipment and training, the long-term benefits will be substantial, contributin to a healthier planet and safer work and home environments.
Be sure to stay informed about these upcoming changes and plan your compliance strategy well in advance. By acting now, you’ll not only be prepared for the new regulations, but also play a part in reducing the environmental impact of harmful chemicals.
