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Guidance Leaflet: PFOA in Fire-Fighting Foams

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This guidance document from Ireland's Environmental Protection Agency explains the regulations around PFAS chemicals — particularly PFOA and PFOS — found in aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) used in fire suppression systems and extinguishers. It outlines a phased timeline of restrictions, culminating in a full ban on AFFF containing PFOA by July 4, 2025, and details the steps organizations must take to check their systems, notify the EPA, and properly dispose of non-compliant foams. Businesses holding more than 50 kg of such foam at any location are required to report their stockpiles annually to the EPA via its EDEN portal.

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EPA Ireland guidance leaflet on PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkylated substances) in aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) used in fire suppression systems and handheld fire extinguishers. Covers regulatory controls under the Stockholm Convention and Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Regulation (EU) 2019/1021, including restrictions effective July 4, 2020, January 1, 2023, and July 4, 2025 banning all uses of AFFF containing PFOA. Details obligations for notifying the EPA via pops@epa.ie and EDEN portal, stockpile management plans for stocks exceeding 50 kg, and steps to determine whether fire systems contain PFOS, PFOA, or PFOA-related compounds. Recommends switching to fluorine-free foam alternatives.

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