A deadline for transitioning away from traditional firefighting foam is approaching. Here’s what operators need to know about moving away from PFAS-based AFFF and how to choose a new product.
For the past 60 years, Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) has been the go-to solution for fighting fires on ships. Its effectiveness comes from PFAS – per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances – which provide AFFF with its quick film-forming ability. However, PFAS are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they persist in the environment and have been linked to higher cancer risks, meaning AFFF’s future is uncertain.
Regulations are starting to catch up. In 2023, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) established a new SOLAS regulation II-2/10.11 that bans PFOS-containing fire extinguishing agents on existing ships. This ban takes effect by each vessel’s first applicable survey on or after January 1, 2026. Although the U.S. Coast Guard has not yet updated its Salvage and Marine Firefighting regulations to mandate a switch, the USCG Authorization Act of 2025 (Section 401) encourages responders to use “the best technology economically feasible,” which is pressuring the industry to adapt ahead of regulations.
Key Considerations for Product Selection
The real question now is not whether to stop using PFAS foam, but when and what to use instead. Here are some important points to keep in mind:
- Fluorine-free foams vary in performance. Earlier alternatives often needed higher application rates or were incompatible with existing systems, making them less appealing for many who have fixed setups.
- The concentrate percentage matters. A foam that works at a lower concentrate level (like 1% compared to 3% or 6%) can significantly impact storage space, weight, and transport logistics, which are all important for vessels or depots.
- Look for a UL 162 listing. This certification indicates third-party validation for firefighting performance, which is more reliable than just environmental claims.
- Not all fluorine-free products are compatible with both fresh and salt water, so it’s essential to verify this before choosing a supplier.
A Leading Choice
Resolve Marine, a leader in emergency response and marine firefighting, spent five years assessing fluorine-free options, analyzing performance data, and observing actual demonstrations. They selected Dwight’s Signature Series SFFF (synthetic fluorine-free foam), produced by Perimeter Solutions, as their replacement across U.S. depots. This foam stands out as the only 1% fluorine-free foam with a UL 162 listing, requires about 66% less concentrate per fire compared to traditional foams, and can be mixed with both fresh and salt water—making it a suitable replacement rather than a compromise.
Resolve Marine now distributes this product and serves as a resource for operators navigating their foam transition, regardless of their current engagement with Resolve Marine for other services.
For inquiries about the transition, timelines, or foam compatibility, feel free to reach out via email.
Resolve Marine is a global leader in innovative maritime solutions, tackling complex challenges with expertise and creativity. Founded in 1984 and headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Resolve Marine has numerous commercial offices, response warehouses, and equipment depots across the U.S. and beyond. For more details, visit their website.