What is a AFFF fire extinguisher?
Aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) is a highly efficient type of fire suppressant agent, used by itself to attack flammable liquid pool fires, and in conjunction with Halon 1301 to attack fires in Navy vessel machinery spaces. The foam forms spontaneously upon ejection of the concentrate/water mix from the nozzle.
Is AFFF banned?
The new law bans the use of PFAS-containing firefighting foam, or “AFFF,” effective October 1, 2021. The Task Force was first convened after the accidental release of PFAS from an aircraft hangar at Bradley International Airport.
Do firefighters use AFFF?
Firefighters use aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) to help extinguish difficult-to-fight fires, particularly fires that involve petroleum or other flammable liquids ‚ known as Class B fires.
Is AFFF Class A foam?
Class A foams are used to extinguish fires caused by wood, paper, and brush. Of the fluorinated foams, aqueous film forming foams or “AFFF” are the foams that contain varying amounts and mixtures of PFAS, and of the most concern to human health and the environment.
How do AFFF extinguishers work?
When applied to a hazard, AFFF produces an aqueous film that spreads across the surface of the fire to extinguish the flame. This film is what gives AFFF its name, and it works by suppressing flammable liquid vapor, effectively suffocating the fire hazard.
What Colour is a AFFF extinguisher?
There main body should be Red, to conform with British Standards, and they should have a Large Cream Banner across the top on the front of the extinguisher with Red writing stating “Foam”.
Does all AFFF contain PFAS?
All AFFF products contain PFAS. This applies to foams used in the past and those being sold today. Foam currently in stock or new foam that is labeled as AFFF or AR-AFFF, contains perfluoroalkyl or polyfluoroalkyl substances, or both, as active ingredients (DOD 2018; Darwin 2004).
Is there a replacement for AFFF?
GFFF is a Fluorine Free Foam Replacement for AFFF and the Leading Firefighting Foam that is SAFE for firefighters. Protecting Life, Property, and Resources. GreenFire® Firefighting Foam (GFFF) is a class B foam BUT is non-toxic and non-carcinogenic. GFFF is the Fluorine Free Replacement for AFFF.
Is AFFF corrosive?
Ship decks have aqueous firefighting foam (AFFF) stations that are used for fire fighting. The foam is, however, corrosive and can make holes in the decks. Right beneath those holes tends to be important rooms or tanks. They certainly wouldn’t want something dripping onto a person or equipment.
Is Class A foam cancerous?
The PFAS chemicals present in firefighting foam are also known carcinogens, meaning they can cause cancer. The presence of PFAS in AFFF means firefighting foam cancer presents a serious risk to firefighters, airport workers, and property owners exposed to this fire suppressant.
Can a fire fighter be exposed to PFAS?
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is a low level of control and should not be applied as a primary control without due consideration of other options ( 20). Fire fighters may be exposed to PFAS containing AFFF as well as other hazardous chemicals in firefighting situations.
Who was the inventor of foam fire extinguisher?
In 1902, a method of extinguishing flammable liquid fires by blanketing them with foam was introduced by Russian engineer and chemist Aleksandr Loran. Loran was a teacher in a school in Baku, the center of the Russian oil industry at that time.
How are alcohol resistant foams used in firefighting?
Alcohol-resistant foams contain a polymer that forms a protective layer between the burning surface and the foam, preventing foam breakdown by alcohols in the burning fuel.
Is it safe to work with PFAS in the workplace?
The risk of exposure to PFAS must be minimised in the workplace wherever possible. Where elimination is not possible, the risk of exposure must be assessed and managed in accordance with the hierarchy of exposure controls and have regard for safe work procedures and recommendations given in the Safety Data Sheets (SDS).