In recent years, one topic has increasingly become the focus of public attention: PFAS chemicals, a group of synthetic chemicals that can be found in countless everyday products. From frying pans to fire-fighting foam - these substances are omnipresent. But what was initially hailed as a chemical advance is increasingly becoming an environmental challenge.
This article sheds light on the basics of PFAS and shows what consequences this has for preventive fire protection.
What are PFAS chemicals?
PFAS (perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl substances) are synthetic chemical compounds that have been used in a wide variety of industrial processes and products since the 1940s. A well-known subgroup of PFAS are PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonic acid), which have long been used in many everyday products due to their water-, grease- and dirt-repellent properties.
These chemicals are characterized by their exceptional stability - a property that has earned them the nickname “eternal chemicals”. However, it is precisely this stability that poses a significant environmental problem, as PFAS are practically non-degradable and accumulate in the environment, in living organisms and ultimately also in the human body.
The PFAS ban in the EU
The European Union is planning a comprehensive ban on PFAS, as this group of substances is associated with various health risks.
Scientific studies indicate possible carcinogenic properties, as well as negative effects on the immune and endocrine systems. Some PFAS compounds, such as PFOS, are already banned in the EU.
PFAS chemicals in preventive fire protection
The current situation
A particularly important area of application for PFAS is in fire protection, especially in extinguishing foams.
Foam extinguishing agents containing fluorine have been used successfully for decades, as they are particularly effective in fighting liquid fires. They form a film-forming foam that shields the burning material from the oxygen supply and thus suffocates the fire.
The need for change
With the planned PFAS ban, the fire protection industry is facing a significant challenge: all PFAS-containing extinguishing agents, including the foams used in fire extinguishers, must be replaced by PFAS-free alternatives. From October 10, 2026, only fluorine-free fire extinguishers may be placed on the market. Fire extinguishers containing fluorine that were manufactured before the deadline may still be used until 2023 as part of a transitional arrangement.
This change affects not only the purchase of new extinguishing agents, but also the replacement of existing PFAS-containing products.
Early action is the key
It is crucial for companies to address the switch to PFAS-free extinguishing agents at an early stage. A proactive approach offers several advantages:
- Cost control: a planned, phased transition allows for a better spread of investment costs.
- Security of supply: Proactive action is crucial to avoid supply shortages when sourcing suitable alternatives. It is no longer possible to replace foam extinguishing agents containing fluorine, as production has already been discontinued by the manufacturers.
- Legal certainty: Companies can ensure that they meet the upcoming legal requirements in good time.
- Environmental protection: The sooner the switch is made to PFAS-free alternatives, the lower the environmental impact.
The transition to PFAS-free extinguishing agents is not only a legal necessity, but also an opportunity for companies to make their fire protection concepts future-proof and sustainable. The earlier this transformation process is initiated, the more smoothly and cost-effectively it can be implemented.
It is important that companies seek advice from experts in order to identify the best PFAS-free alternatives for their specific requirements.
Do you need support?
The experts at CWS Fire Safety support you in the economical conversion to PFAS-free fire extinguishers and extinguishing agents.
We analyze your existing fire protection equipment and develop a tailor-made conversion plan. Benefit from our experience - we accompany you from the inventory to the professional implementation.