Fluorine Free Foam In South Africa: Key takeaway
As fluorinated firefighting foams are phased out worldwide, South African companies must prepare for the switch to fluorine free foam. Understanding how it works, how it affects your system, and what steps to take next is essential for compliance and safety.
Understanding the change
In a recent discussion between Debbie, Managing Director of Specifire, and Mike from DoseTech Fire, the two unpacked a major shift in the fire industry: the move from AFFF and AFFF-AR to fluorine free foam.
“These older foams contain PFAS chemicals, also known as ‘forever chemicals’,” Mike explained. “They do not break down and are now found in water, soil, and even food sources.”
Although South Africa does not yet have legislation banning PFAS firefighting foams, global momentum is forcing local change. “International companies operating here are already asking whether systems are compliant and if the installed proportioning equipment can handle the new foam types,” Mike said.
The growing pressure
The impact is being felt across the sector. Debbie noted that insurance providers are taking a stronger stance. “Some underwriters are refusing to cover installations that still use fluorinated foam. Right now, only one local insurer will continue cover until the end of the year.”
At the same time, supply is tightening. European manufacturers have already stopped producing AFFF, making refills and top-ups increasingly difficult to find. “That alone is pushing South African companies to act,” Mike said. “You can’t rely on stock that’s no longer being made.”
How fluorine free foam works
Fluorine free foam is designed to control Class B flammable liquid fires without the environmental risks of PFAS. “The key difference,” Mike explained, “is that the older foams created a thin film that spread across the fuel surface to stop vapour release. Fluorine free foam does not form that film automatically. Instead, it relies on dense, stable bubbles to completely blanket the area.”
This change affects how systems are engineered and maintained. Flow rates, aspiration, and dosing accuracy all behave differently. “You can’t simply drain the old foam and fill it with fluorine free foam,” Mike added. “Viscosity and density must be checked carefully.”
What it means for existing systems
Transitioning to fluorine free foam in South Africa requires site-specific assessment. Debbie explained, “There’s no single solution. Each system must be reviewed to identify what can be reused and what needs to be replaced.”
Mike highlighted the main areas that need review:
- System cleaning and decontamination – Old PFAS residues can cause rebound contamination if not fully removed.
- Flow and density adjustments – Fluorine free foam may need higher flow rates, affecting pump capacity, tank size, and pipework.
- Aspiration and expansion ratios – Air may need to be added at the end of the line to achieve proper foam expansion.
- Proportioning accuracy – Older proportioners may not handle the higher viscosity of fluorine free foam.
- Storage tanks and suction lines – Even stainless-steel tanks can absorb PFAS over time. In some cases, replacements are the safest route.
“The older the system, the more careful you need to be,” Mike said. “Taking shortcuts might save money now but cause serious problems later.”
Helping businesses transition safely
Debbie emphasised Specifire’s commitment to helping companies manage this transition responsibly. “Our role is to guide clients through the change, ensuring compliance without unnecessary cost,” she said. “It’s about being proactive before you’re forced to react.”
The move to fluorine free foam is more than a technical update. It’s a global shift in fire suppression compliance, environmental responsibility, and insurance requirements.
“The technology is improving quickly,” Mike added. “Foam manufacturers are refining their formulas every year, which means more existing systems will be adaptable going forward.”
Take the first step
If your business stores or uses firefighting foam, even if Specifire did not install your system, now is the time to review it.
👉 Contact Specifire to find out whether the switch to fluorine free foam applies to your site and what actions to take next.