One of the most effective ways to fight fires is now one of the most dangerous to its users. Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) is a type of fire suppressant made with per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
Unfortunately, recent research around PFAS from the Environmental Protection Agency revealed that these substances do not break down over time and, in fact, potentially leak into water systems and indoor air spaces. You’ll find PFAS in other products, but using Aqueous Film Forming Foam to fight fires leads to higher levels of exposure quicker.
If you’re a company that has used AFFF and is looking for how to dispose of it, look no further than HWH Environmental. Our trained hazardous waste disposal experts work together with you and your team to remove Aqueous Film Forming Foam from your facility quickly and efficiently.
To learn more about Aqueous Film Forming Foam and its effects, continue reading below.
AFFF’s effectiveness led to its increased usage across the country. Many local fire departments used AFFF for fire suppression training and in practice. Most civilian fire suppression systems do not use AFFF, instead using sprinklers or Class A foams.
Aqueous film forming foam is considered hazardous by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration due to its ability to irritate the eyes and skin.
In September 2022, the EPA announced that some PFAS are now considered hazardous waste. Because certain AFFF compounds contain these PFAS, any release into the environment requires reporting and following specific hazardous waste disposal regulations.
Due to the environmental and health concerns associated with PFAS compounds, including their persistence in the environment and potential toxicity, the disposal of AFFF containing PFAS is often subject to strict regulations and guidelines.
AFFF that contain PFAS may be classified as hazardous waste, and special handling, treatment, or disposal procedures may be required to mitigate the environmental impact.
Initiatives to reduce and phase out the use of AFFF that contain PFAS are happening across the United States due to the restrictions on using PFAS-containing firefighting foams, especially in non-emergency training exercises. This also includes the potential health hazards of exposure for anyone who has come in contact with AFFF.
The U.S. Military will stop using AFFF by October 2024, and the Federal Aviation Administration will follow soon after. Most states have already introduced or passed legislation banning the use of AFFF for firefighters during operations or training.
Currently, these industries are actively researching and testing alternative firefighting foams that are less harmful to the environment and health.
As for the rest of the world, other countries are taking notice of the dangers of AFFF and developing plans to move away from the fire suppressant.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies PFOA as a 2B carcinogen. 2B carcinogens are possibly carcinogenic to humans.
According to researchers with the Department of Defense and the EPA, exposure to AFFF can lead to:
That’s why industries must remove AFFF from their buildings and machines immediately.
Across the country, U.S. Military firefighters and aviation firefighters have begun to file lawsuits against 3M, DuPont, and other companies as they believe those companies sold products despite known health risks.
As of August 2023, there are 3,300 plaintiffs in the AFFF Lawsuit.
The best way to remove Aqueous Film Forming Foam is by working alongside trained professionals at a hazardous waste removal company. They have the experience, education, and know-how to safely remove AFFF from your facility without endangering your employees or the environment.
HWH Environmental works with businesses nationwide, assisting in removing Aqueous Film Forming Foam from their buildings.
While one of the most effective ways to fight fires, Aqueous Film Forming Foam’s environmental dangers highlight the need for industries nationwide to dispose of this hazardous waste.
If your business has used or leftover Aqueous Film Forming Foam, reach out to Hazardous Waste Haulers, and one of our disposal experts will immediately assist you.
With over 25 years of experience in the hazardous waste disposal industry, Mark Chocola is one of the driving forces behind HWH Environmental that are committed to providing safe, compliant, and cost-effective hazardous waste solutions. His deep industry knowledge and dedication to customer service have made HWH Environmental a trusted partner for businesses across the United States.
