Short answer: no, not all of them – yet. One older type of foam has been banned, and the current type is expected to follow. You may have been told that all foam extinguishers were banned in 2025 – that isn't right. Here's what's actually happening.
Why Foam Is Changing
Most foam extinguishers have used AFFF (aqueous film-forming foam). AFFF contains PFAS – so-called "forever chemicals" that don't break down in the environment and can build up in people and wildlife. PFAS aren't only found in foam – they've also been used in everyday products such as some non-stick coatings and waterproof clothing. Governments are now phasing them out, including from firefighting foams.
Older "C8" Foam (PFOA) – Banned
- Restrictions on these chemicals began back in 2008.
- UK suppliers stopped using C8 in foam extinguishers well over 10 years ago, switching to a newer version ("C6").
- A final ban on C8 came into force on 4 July 2025. Any extinguisher still containing it must be taken out of service and disposed of safely.
- You can't tell from the label whether an extinguisher contains C8 – the label won't say. But if your foam extinguishers have been looked after by a reputable servicing company, any C8 units will have been replaced long ago.
- If you're not sure – for example, the extinguisher is old or there's no service record – have it checked by a competent engineer.
Newer "C6" Foam – the Next to Go
- Most AFFF extinguishers today use C6 foam. It's still legal to buy, refill and use in Great Britain.
- The UK is now getting ready to ban it. At the time of writing (October 2026) the ban hadn't yet become law. The current proposal gives existing portable extinguishers five years, so you won't need to replace them straight away.
- The sensible approach is to replace a C6 foam extinguisher when it's due for its extended service (also known as a discharge test) or reaches the end of its life.
- Northern Ireland follows the EU rules: new AFFF extinguishers can't be sold there from 23 October 2026, and existing ones must be replaced by 30 December 2030.
Servicing and Disposing of Foam
AFFF foam can't simply be sprayed out to test or service an extinguisher. It has to be discharged into a container and taken away for safe, approved disposal – and that disposal is becoming more expensive.
Did You Need Foam in the First Place?
For most indoor situations, probably not. The UK got into the habit of specifying foam, but water and water additive extinguishers are usually better suited, cost less and are a safe replacement.
- For most fire points, our standard advice is a 6 Litre Water Fire Extinguisher, plus a 2kg CO2 Fire Extinguisher where there's electrical equipment.
- Water additive extinguishers – including branded special products such as Firexo – are a good alternative. Check the label for the fire classes each one covers.
- If you do need foam (for example, where flammable liquids are stored), choose a fluorine-free foam. It contains no PFAS – just check its fire ratings suit your risk.
See Which Fire Extinguisher Do I Need? for more on choosing the right type.
Worth remembering… your fire risk assessment is what decides the equipment your premises need. This guide is general advice, not a substitute for it.
Not sure what you need? Get in touch with our team – we'll be delighted to help. No pressure. No sales patter.