A suitable replacement portable fire extinguisher would be any product that matches the class of potential fire identified by the fire extinguisher provider in their risk assessment, (and that is compliant with the relevant parts of BS 5306).

Please check with your fire extinguisher provider to ensure the appropriate fire extinguishers are used. Where foam portable fire extinguishers are used, please ensure they meet the UK POPs Regulation. This can be confirmed via the fire extinguisher provider/manufacturer.

Further Information:

In November 2021, BAFE shared information provided by the Environment Agency regarding the UK Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Regulation:

https://www.bafe.org.uk/bafe-news/compliance-advice-for-pfoa-in-class-b-firefighting-foams

In 2022, The FIA (Fire Industry Association) published the guidance document “Foam Extinguisher Restrictions Briefing”. In this guidance it discusses the use of Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in foam; “C8” chemistry. The brief is available to download from the FIA here: https://www.fia.uk.com/resourceLibrary/foam-extinguisher-restrictions-briefing-2022.html (external link).

In 2023, The FIA published “Guidance on Applicable standards for class B foams” available to download from the FIA here: https://www.fia.uk.com/resourceLibrary/guidance-applicable-standards-for-class-b-foams--pdf.html (external link).

Every effort is made to ensure that the information provided is accurate and up to date as of time of publishing. Any sources of information are stated appropriately. No legal responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions.