Veolia AFFF Disposal Solutions
Veolia offers specialised AFFF disposal solutions designed to help industries comply with the latest regulations and ensure environmental safety. As one of the only two sites in the UK equipped to handle AFFF chemical disposal, our Ellesmere Port facility provides a reliable service for managing these hazardous substances and is currently accepting liquid AFFF for treatment.
High Temperature Incineration:
At our Ellesmere Port site, chemicals are disposed of through high-temperature incineration, burning at temperatures exceeding 1050℃. This method effectively breaks down AFFF compounds, ensuring complete destruction and minimising environmental impact.
Regulatory Compliance:
Veolia is committed to helping businesses meet stringent regulatory requirements associated with AFFF disposal. Our services ensure compliance with UK regulations, including the upcoming ban on AFFF.
Capacity Management:
Our Ellesmere Port facility has limited capacity for AFFF disposal, and we work closely with customers to manage this capacity effectively. Businesses are encouraged to plan ahead to secure their disposal needs.
What is AFFF?
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) has long been used for tackling flammable liquid fires, especially in high-risk industrial environments. But AFFF contains harmful per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that persist in the environment and pose serious health risks.
What is the AFFF ban in July 2025?
Effective 4 July 2025, the UK will enforce a ban on AFFF fire extinguishers containing harmful PFAS chemicals, such as Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). This significant regulatory change aims to mitigate environmental and health risks associated with these persistent substances.
Which industries are most affected by the AFFF ban?
Waste Management & Recycling Centres: Facilities handling combustible materials like paper, plastics, and hazardous waste rely heavily on AFFF for fire suppression.
Chemical Manufacturing Plants: Sites processing and storing hazardous chemicals require robust fire suppression systems for safety compliance.
Waste-to-Energy Incinerators: High-intensity fuel fires in these plants necessitate effective fire suppression systems, traditionally using AFFF.
Industrial Storage Yards: Rapid-response foam systems are crucial here to tackle deep-seated fires in waste materials.
Petrochemical, Airports, Ports, Aviation, and Shipping Industries: These sectors often use AFFF in fixed fire suppression systems due to the high risk of flammable liquid fires.
Fire and Rescue Services: Emergency responders have historically depended on AFFF for its rapid knockdown capabilities.
Timeline for AFFF Regulations
2019 – PFOA Designated a POP
Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA), found in some AFFFs, was added to the Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) Regulation.
2020 – AFFF Restrictions Introduced
Sale of AFFF extinguishers containing PFOA banned in the UK.
Use of AFFF for training prohibited.
4 July 2025 – Complete AFFF Ban
AFFF can no longer be used for any purpose.
Existing stock must be securely contained and disposed of.
Sites must notify the Environment Agency and use an accredited disposal company.
Action Steps for Compliance
1. Audit Your Equipment: Identify and catalogue all fire suppression systems and extinguishers currently using AFFF.
2. Consult with Experts: Engage with fire safety professionals to explore PFAS-free alternatives suitable for your specific operational needs.
3. Plan for Safe Disposal: Coordinate with licensed hazardous waste disposal services to ensure environmentally responsible removal of AFFF-containing equipment.
Need Assistance?
Our team is here to guide you through the transition, offering expertise in identifying compliant alternatives and facilitating safe disposal processes.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will AFFF be banned in the UK?
The full ban on AFFF use in the UK comes into effect on 4 July 2025. After this date, AFFF can no longer be used or stored and must be disposed of by a licensed contractor.
Can I still use existing AFFF stock before July 2025?
Yes, but only under strict containment conditions. You must also notify the Environment Agency and ensure the foam is disposed of safely by the deadline.
Why is AFFF being banned?
AFFF contains PFAS chemicals, which are extremely persistent in the environment and linked to health risks. With safer alternatives now available, regulators are phasing out AFFF to protect people and the planet.
How should I dispose of AFFF?
AFFF must be disposed of by a licensed hazardous waste company. Veolia offers compliant disposal through high-temperature incineration at our permitted facility in Ellesmere Port.
Is AFFF disposal capacity limited?
Yes. Only two facilities in the UK, including Veolia Ellesmere Port, can legally process PFAS-based foam. We strongly recommend planning ahead to secure disposal capacity before the 2025 deadline.
Can Veolia help with regulatory paperwork?
Absolutely. We assist with everything from environmental notifications to waste tracking and compliance documentation.