As part of our ongoing commitment to keeping you informed and ensuring your safety, we are pleased to provide an update on the PFAS issue affecting firefighting foams and to introduce our innovative solution, Envirofoam.
Understanding PFAS – From C8 to C6
Historically, firefighting foams such as AFFF were formulated with chemicals known as PFOA and PFOS, both belonging to the C8 category of PFAS compounds. These were banned due to their significant environmental and health impacts. Since 2016, all AFFF has been reformulated without these C8 chemicals.
However, the focus has now shifted to PFHxA, a C6 PFAS chemical. Despite being a shorter-chain PFAS, PFHxA is often referred to as a ‘Forever Chemical’ due to its persistence in the environment, where it can remain intact for over 120 years. This incredible durability is due to its structure, where each carbon atom is bonded to at least six hydrocarbons, making it resistant to breakdown.
Introducing Envirofoam: A Safer Alternative
In response to these environmental concerns, we are proud to introduce Envirofoam, a groundbreaking alternative designed to replace Class B firefighting foams without the environmental impact of traditional or even newer PFAS compounds.
For locations without Class B risk, we will transition to water-based alternatives when your extinguishers are due for testing. This proactive change ensures your compliance with safety regulations and supports environmental sustainability.
What’s Next?
Our engineers will evaluate all foam extinguishers during routine maintenance visits, particularly those due for extended testing. They will discuss the transition to Envirofoam or other appropriate alternatives to best meet your specific needs.
We’re Here to Help
This transition might raise questions, and we’re here to provide the answers. Our team is ready to assist you in understanding these changes and ensuring your fire protection measures are both effective and environmentally responsible.
Meet Our New and Improved CommanderEDGE Envirofoam Range
Fire extinguishers containing PFAS have become a key topic of discussion, creating the need for fluorine-free foam fire extinguishers capable of tackling Class B flammable liquid fires.
Consisting of 6-litre and 9-litre units, we are proud to introduce the new and improved Envirofoam range that is now completely fluorine-free. Here, we explain what’s in the range and how it can impact sustainability and fire safety.
What are the Regulations on AFFF Foam Fire Extinguishers?
In recent years, studies have found that PFAS chemicals that make AFFF foam an effective solution for extinguishing Class B fires are also what make them harmful to the environment, wildlife, and human lives. For this reason, some PFAS chemicals have been banned since 2020, with further legal restrictions set to follow imminently.
The Fluorine-Free Foam Solution: CommanderEDGE Envirofoam
To address the growing need for an environmentally responsible solution, we’ve launched our new range of improved CommanderEDGE Envirofoam fluorine-free fire extinguishers. A perfect fluorine-free solution that doesn’t compromise on fire safety performance, the new range is packed with additional benefits:
Suitable for Multiple Fire Classes
From industrial warehouses and manufacturing facilities to laboratories, settings with Class A (combustible materials) and Class B (flammable liquids) fire risks are covered and compliant with the new Envirofoam fire extinguisher range from CommanderEDGE.
Available in 6-Litre and 9-Litre Units
To accommodate diverse industry needs, our fluorine-free foam range is available in two sizes: 6-litre and 9-litre units. This versatility ensures businesses can tailor fire safety solutions based on specific fire risk assessment requirements.
Outstanding Ratings and Performance
CommanderEDGE Envirofoam fluorine-free foam fire extinguishers boast incredible ratings: 27A 144B for 6-litre units and 34A 183B for 9-litre units. The range is proof that sustainability efforts don’t need to compromise fire safety performance. The internationally recognised BS Kitemark further assures this dependability in design and manufacturing.
Environmentally Friendly
With potential legislation changes looming, businesses can be better prepared for any environmental regulations regarding PFAS by stocking up on CommanderEDGE’s Envirofoam fluorine-free foam range.
Growing Credentials with The Green Range
Fire safety cannot be compromised, but neither can the environment, which is why we have The Green Range available to support businesses looking to improve their sustainability efforts.
The content of this blog is for general information purposes only. While we make every effort to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, it should not be considered professional advice. Any reliance you place on the information is at your own risk. Always seek the advice of a fire professional for your particular circumstances and requirements.