PFAS-containing firefighting foams are under increasing scrutiny in Europe due to environmental and health risks. Unlike the rest of the UK, Northern Ireland follows EU chemical rules under the Windsor Framework, meaning NI businesses must comply with the latest EU PFAS restrictions. New guidance has just been released by the Fire Industry Association, the largest fire safety trade association in the UK.
Northern Ireland Follows EU PFAS Rules
Under EU REACH and POPs legislation, the use of PFHxA and related PFAS chemicals in firefighting foams is being restricted. For Northern Ireland, the key points include:
- Training and Testing: From 10 April 2026, C6 foams used for training and testing are restricted above defined PFHxA limits (i.e., ≥25 ppb for PFHxA (and salts) or ≥1,000 ppb for the sum of PFHxA-related substances), except where releases are fully contained and safely disposed of.
- Public Fire & Rescue Services: Similar restrictions apply from the same date, except COMAH (Seveso III) sites.
- Civil Aviation: C6 foams for airports and aviation use will face restrictions from 10 October 2029.
The restriction limits the amount of PFAS in firefighting foams as follows:
PFAS shall not be placed on the market or used as of 23 October 2030 in firefighting foams in a concentration equal to or greater than 1 mg/L for the sum of all PFAS.
Specific portable extinguisher extended use derogations cover:
New (extinguishers placed on market for the first time):
- AFFF/FFFP fire extinguishers: phased out by 23 October 2026
- Alcohol-resistant foam variants: phased out by 23 October 2027
Existing extinguisher stocks (already in service):
- All foam fire extinguishers – 30 December 2030
PFAS Management Requirements
From 23 October 2026, any use of PFAS-containing foams must follow strict management guidelines:
- Only use on Class B (flammable liquid) fires
- Minimise environmental emissions and human exposure
- Implement a PFAS-containing foam management plan with annual reviews
- Maintain records for at least 15 years
- Label all stocks of unused foam and waste appropriately
- Ensure separate collection and safe disposal of unused foam, PFAS waste, discharged foam, firewater run-off and wastewater (including from system cleaning).
These measures ensure compliance while helping reduce environmental impact and health risks.
What This Means for Northern Ireland Businesses
For companies and facilities in Northern Ireland:
- Compliance is mandatory – PFAS rules from the EU apply directly to NI
- Phased deadlines give time to replace existing foam safely
- Planning for PFAS-free alternatives now is wise to future-proof fire safety strategies
- Staying proactive reduces regulatory risk and aligns with sustainability goals
How Diamond Systems Can Help
At Diamond Systems, we support Northern Ireland businesses in transitioning away from PFAS-containing foams and ensuring fire safety compliance. Our team can:
- Audit current firefighting foams
- Recommend PFAS-free alternatives such as the P50 Eco-Foam from Britannia Fire
- Provide guidance on phased replacement and regulatory compliance
Thinking about updating your fire safety equipment or reviewing compliance? Get in touch with our team today for expert advice and a site survey.
Download the full FIA Guidance Note here.
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