On October 3, 2025, a new EU Regulation 2025/1988 came to public attention, which prohibits the use of fluorinated substances (PFAS) in firefighting foams and portable fire extinguishers, with transitional periods.
This step is part of efforts to reduce environmental and health risks associated with these substances. What does this specifically mean for firefighters, technicians, facility managers, and regular users? This article explains it clearly and simply.
1. What are PFAS and why are they problematic
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of chemicals that are extremely stable and resistant to degradation. They are used in various products, including firefighting foams, because they help reduce surface tension and improve effectiveness in extinguishing flammable liquids (e.g., gasoline, oil).
The biggest negative impact of PFAS is their persistence in the environment and accumulation — they are called “persistent pollutants” or “forever chemicals.” They can accumulate in soil, water, and living organisms, posing a risk to human health and ecosystems.
2. What exactly does EU Regulation 2025/1988 specify
In short — the regulation bans PFAS in firefighting foams and portable fire extinguishers, with certain transitional periods and exceptions for specific areas. Below is a summary:
a) Portable fire extinguishers
Placing on the market: PFAS-containing extinguishers may be sold until October 23, 2026
Exception: alcohol-resistant foams until April 23, 2027
Use: allowed until December 31, 2030
b) Firefighting foams (in systems)
From October 23, 2030:
Foams with a total PFAS content ≥ 1 mg/l may not be marketed or used (except for special cases).
Exceptions for use in training/testing systems until April 23, 2027 (if the foam is collected)
Special exceptions until October 23, 2035: apply to sectors under Directive 2012/18/EU, such as industrial fires, naval vessels, military ships, and offshore facilities
c) Labelling
From October 23, 2026 (for foams and portable fire extinguishers), all inventory and waste must be labelled:
“Warning: PFAS content exceeds 1 mg/l (sum of all PFAS).“
3. Who this change is important for
This regulation affects several groups:
Manufacturers and distributors – must begin producing and distributing fluorine-free solutions, store existing PFAS stocks, adjust labels, and prepare plans for phasing out PFAS.
Users of firefighting equipment (firefighters, building operators, industrial facilities) – will need to gradually migrate to fluorine-free foams, plan replacement schedules, update documentation, and ensure safe disposal.
Service companies and technology suppliers – must be familiar with new standards, implement new components, and advise customers on the transition.
Public / citizens – even though this change directly affects household fire extinguishers only to a limited extent, it is part of a broader move toward a more ecological and healthier environment.
4. Challenges and recommendations for transitioning to fluorine-free solutions
Challenges
Developing new foam formulations that achieve similar effectiveness to PFAS foams in various fire types.
Modifying existing systems designed for PFAS foams — for compatibility, dosing, and stability.
Transition costs: replacement, training, disposal of old stocks, logistics for segregation and disposal of PFAS waste.
Administrative preparation of plans, audits, and compliance with documentation requirements (e.g., 15-year record retention).
Recommedations
1. Start early – don’t wait until the last moment, monitor deadlines.
2. Map your PFAS stock and foams, separate them from new materials.
3. Develop a transition plan, including: clean transitions, testing of fluorine-free systems, and exceptions.
4. Educate personnel – operators, technicians, and system owners – about the properties of the new foams.
5. Monitor technologies and certifications – new foam technologies will continue to be developed, and certifications / performance tests will be important.
From Chemicals to Cleaner Firefighting
The change introduced by EU Regulation 2025/1988 represents a significant step toward more ecological and sustainable fire protection.
The transition will be demanding — technologically, organizationally, and financially — but it is an essential move forward.
If we prepare in time and systematically, we can achieve safe firefighting systems that do not burden the environment while maintaining their effectiveness.
