Foam Fire Extinguishers

A foam fire extinguisher is rated for Class A fires involving solid combustibles such as wood, paper and textiles, and Class B fires involving flammable liquids such as petrol and diesel. The right foam type depends on your fire risk: B-foam handles liquids, while A-foam focuses on solid fuel fires.

A foam fire extinguisher is used to protect premises where solid combustibles and flammable liquids both pose a fire risk. It's a versatile choice for many commercial settings. That said, it's not suitable for every fire type, so always match your extinguisher to your site's specific hazards.

Foam fire extinguishers are red with a cream-coloured panel or band. UK regulations require all fire extinguishers to be red under BS EN 3, with a colour-coded section identifying the agent inside. Cream indicates foam. Checking the panel colour is the quickest way to confirm you're reaching for the right extinguisher.

Traditional AFFF foam extinguishers have been phased out by Safelincs and a ban on their manufacture and use is expected to be announced imminently. This is because the fluorine compounds (PFAS) contained in their fire-fighting foam are harmful to the environment, ecosystems and to human health. AFFF extinguishers have been popular for their ability to tackle a multitude of common fire risks. In many cases, AFFF foam extinguishers can now be substituted with Water-Mist extinguishers, or fluorine-free foam extinguishers. For more information, read our blog about blog about AFFF discontinuation

AFFF foam contains PFAS chemicals, which have been identified as being harmful to the environment, people, and wildlife. Some PFAS chemicals have been banned since 2020, and other legal restrictions are imminent. This new legislation is expected to enforce a ban on the manufacture, sale and eventually ban the use of all AFFF foam extinguishers in the UK.

Need to replace your AFFF foam extinguishers? Read our advice about fluorine-free extinguishers for more clarification on suitable alternatives to AFFF foam.

Foam extinguishers can be used on electrical fires only if they've passed the 35kV conductivity test.

Use water mist or foam in general office areas with live electrical equipment. The only use for CO2 is generally in server rooms or areas where water-based extinguishers might damage valuable electrical equipment.

Always check your extinguisher's specific certification before using it near electrical equipment.

A foam extinguisher should be replaced around the 10-year mark. After 5 years, replace your current foam extinguishers with a suitable alternative, such as water mist.

By replacing AFFF foam extinguishers now, organisations can pre-empt regulatory control that will soon exist. The disposal of AFFF foam is highly regulated due to the harmful environmental consequences of the foam entering water courses and ecosystems. The cost of disposal of this type of foam is also escalating as demand rises. For more information about responsible disposal practices, see our guide on AFFF foam extinguisher disposal.

Regular annual servicing helps determine when replacement becomes more cost-effective than continued maintenance.

Foam extinguishers are only suitable for fire classes A and B, while powder extinguishers are also suitable for fire class C.

Powder extinguishers create a mess, reduce visibility when discharged and can have detrimental health effects, so they should be used outside. Water mist extinguishers are a better choice for inside. For the pros and cons of foam extinguishers and powder extinguishers, please refer to our Foam vs. Powder Extinguishers information.

Many older foam extinguishers contain the fluorosurfactant PFOA as their additive, which is known to cause cumulative environmental damage (thus the nickname 'forever chemicals'). Eco foam extinguishers use improved formulations that are less harmful to the environment.

After using a foam extinguisher, thoroughly clean the affected area, as the foam can leave residue. Always ensure proper ventilation when using any fire extinguisher, and avoid prolonged skin contact with the foam.

Every 12 months, you must have your fire extinguishers serviced by a qualified technician. During the annual service, the technician will replace the headcap seal, verify the correct operation of the headcap safety pin, test the pressure gauge, and replace any O-rings in the junction of the valve and hose or horn.

A visual check of the extinguisher's condition and the instruction label completes the job. Finally, the technician will complete the maintenance label, which records the service history of the extinguisher. You'll also need monthly visual inspections between professional services to check the pressure gauge, safety pin, and overall condition.