March 29, 2023

Regulations guide for firefighting foam

To protect crew against exposure to dangerous substances used in firefighting systems as well as to minimize the impact on the environment, MSC 106 has approved draft amendments to prohibit use of PFOS from both fixed and portable firefighting systems. The amendments are expected to be adopted at MSC 107 and will enter into force 1 January 2026.

Keeping ahead of the regulations

Germany, The Netherlands, Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Australia have already proposed to ban PFOS/ PFAS and as regulations advances, all PFAS (C6 and C8) in firefighting foam will be restricted over the next few years.

This means that there will be restrictions for producing, transporting, and selling – furthermore strict rules will be applied in relation to cleaning and disposal of PFOS/PFAS.

IMO states

Subject: Prohibition of the use of PFOS in firefighting foams.
Impact: Firefighting foams containing PFOS will be prohibited, and any substances containing PFOS will need to go to appropriate shore reception facilities.
Application: New and existing ships not later than the date of the first survey after the date of entry into force which is expected to be 1 January 2026.

How can VIKING help?

VIKING has expertise to guide your technical team on choosing the right firefighting foam solutions that are compliant and environmentally friendly.

Powered by know-how established over the years and covering the full range of owners needs, from inspections to products, replacements and certification, our offerings include:

Effective foam transition
Testing the existing foam for PFAS/PFOS
Disposal of PFOS/PFAS in a safe manner from the vessel
Cleaning of existing tank and connected system from PFAS/PFOS foam
Delivery of new foam together with test of the system
Certification on disposal, cleaning and test after changes to the existing system
Environmentally solution in regards to live testing
Scope the project in connection with 5 yearly dry-docking
“One stop shop” for all services related to your marine fire equipment

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Range of environmentally friendly fluorine free foam

Looking forward: PFOS/PFAS on the global agenda

There is huge global momentum toward ending the use of PFOS/PFAS based foams.

Stockholm Convention on persistent organic pollutants This is a global treaty which entered into force in 2004, requiring Parties to reduce or, where feasible, eliminate the release of Persistent Organic Pollutant (POPs) into the environment.

The European Union ratified the Convention in 2004 and enacted a Regulation that was directly applicable in all Member States, including Ireland. This Regulation from 2004 has been replaced by Regulation (EU) 2019/1021.

It is important to realize that EU Regulations may go beyond the requirements of the Stockholm Convention, and it is the regulation which has legal standing.

VIKING can guide you on new regulations and help you find a solution that keeps your business complaint.