Illinois PFAS Reduction Act
Aqueous film-forming (AFF) foam is a fire suppressant used to extinguish flammable liquid fires. While this foam was once a crucial part of many fire suppression systems, research shows that AFFF contains toxic chemicals known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These substances have raised environmental and health concerns. Therefore, efforts have been made to phase out AFFF. As part of this process, laws have been passed across the United States that restrict the sale and use of this material. For example, in Illinois, the PFAS Reduction Act outlines a timeline to replace the AFF foam, which will impact fire suppression systems for many businesses. Learn more about the PFAS Reduction Act to help you and your business stay up to date.
Overview
AFF foam was commonly used by fire departments, aviation operations, chemical plants, and military facilities, among other locations. The Illinois PFAS Reduction Act will impact these types of businesses across the state. See below for some key dates mentioned in the legislation:
- Effective January 1st, 2022, a person, local government, fire department, or State agency may not use a Class B firefighting foam containing intentionally added PFAS for training or testing purposes.
- Beginning January 1st, 2025, a manufacturer of class B firefighting foam may not knowingly manufacture, sell, offer for sale, distribute for sale, or distribute for use a class B firefighting foam containing intentionally added PFAS.
Additionally, the act allows the following users until January 1, 2027, to come into compliance:
- Refinery or chemical plant or ethanol plant
- Storage and distribution facility, or a tank farm or terminal for flammable liquids
- Fixed foam system in use at a manufacturing facility or warehouse
While there are other stipulations outlined in the PFAS Reduction Act, these are the main deadlines to take note of. As a result of these stipulations, it is important to understand how this will impact your business’s fire protection systems.
Keeping Your Fire Protection Systems Up to Code
Businesses that are currently using aqueous film-forming foam will require updates to their fire protection systems. First off, it is important to note that AFF foam is no longer available. This means that systems that contain AFF foam cannot be tested, as the foam cannot be replaced once discharged. Secondly, newly developed foam solutions are not compatible with existing AFF foam systems, so existing tanks cannot be repurposed. Therefore, old equipment must be scrapped, and existing piping and fire sprinkler heads may need to be replaced. These updates will help ensure your business is protected and compliant with current fire protection codes and standards.
Making the switch from AFF foam concentrate to a newly developed foam requires careful consideration. Every business has unique fire protection needs and requires unique fire protection solutions. At USA Fire Protection, our experienced engineering team is equipped with the tools and experience to tackle any project. Ready to make the switch from AFF foam? Call 844-MYUSAFP (698-7237) or visit our website to get in touch with a member of our team today!