Understanding PFAS in Firefighting Foam

Over the past decade, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have gained widespread attention due to their persistence in the environment and potential risks to human health. Commonly called “forever chemicals,” PFAS are synthetic compounds used in a wide range of products, including firefighting foams. As scrutiny and regulations around PFAS increase, industries tied to emergency response, public safety, and environmental protection are being called to respond with care and compliance. In part two of our two-part firefighting foam testing blog series, we’ll explore what PFAS are and the role they play in the firefighting foam industry.

What are PFAS?

PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a large class of synthetic chemicals defined by strong carbon-fluorine bonds, some of the most durable chemical bonds known. This structure makes them highly resistant to breakdown. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) CompTox database currently lists over 14,000 unique PFAS structures, most of which are man-made. While a few can occur naturally in specific volcanic environments, the vast majority have been developed for industrial and commercial use.

PFAS are primarily used for their water- and oil-repellent properties, which made them especially effective in aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) used for firefighting. Because of their chemical structure, PFAS cannot be broken down by natural processes involving bacteria, viruses, or other microbes. Even when degradation does occur, it can take decades or even centuries. As a result, PFAS accumulate in the environment and in living organisms over time, hence the nickname “forever chemicals”.

The Health and Environmental Impact of PFAS

The same properties that make PFAS valuable in firefighting foam also make them extremely persistent and hazardous in the environment. These substances do not break down naturally, resulting in long-term contamination of water, soil, and crops. PFAS is also known to build up in the human body over time. Scientific studies have linked exposure to some specific PFAS and:

• Certain types of cancer
• Birth defects
• A reduced immune system response, especially following vaccinations

These findings are especially relevant to industries that have historically relied on PFAS-containing foams for fire suppression. As research and public concern around PFAS continue to grow, so does the need for thoughtful product management, responsible disposal, and a shift toward more environmentally friendly alternatives.

Regulations Surrounding PFAS in Firefighting Foam

PFAS use in firefighting foam is under increasing regulatory scrutiny as several states across the U.S. have already banned or restricted the use of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF). In fact, many of these regulations are now in effect, and more are expected in the near future.

One major development comes from the Department of Defense (DoD), which has committed to eliminating the use of PFAS-containing foam at military installations. While there are still some limited exceptions, this milestone reflects broader efforts to phase out PFAS from emergency response applications.

To stay ahead of compliance issues, departments and foam users are encouraged to:

• Review state-level regulations, (may vary)
• Confirm proper disposal of PFAS-containing foam to prevent environmental contamination
• Explore alternative foams that meet evolving safety and performance standards

Regulations are continuing to evolve, and proactive steps now can help organizations adapt smoothly and avoid compliance issues.

PFAS Detection and Best Practices for Firefighting Foam Management

As the industry moves away from PFAS-based products, testing has become a key tool in identifying contamination and managing foam inventories. While testing for PFAS requires advanced laboratory methods, such as liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, general foam performance testing remains a critical part of compliance and safety as the industry transitions.

At Dyne Fire Protection Labs, an NFPA Global Solutions Company, we continue to test a wide range of firefighting foams, including AFFF. While we do not directly test for PFAS, we handle and dispose of all foam samples using procedures that assume PFAS contamination, following environmental and safety best practices.

When it comes to testing for PFAS, there are two common approaches:

1. Targeted Testing

Focuses on identifying specific, regulated PFAS compounds (such as PFOA or PFOS) using methods like EPA Method 1633. This approach is ideal when you know which substances you’re trying to detect — though it only covers a small fraction of the 14,000+ known PFAS.

2. Non-Targeted Testing

Measures total fluorine content to signal the presence of PFAS more broadly.

Common techniques include measuring AOF (Absorbable Organic Fluorine) and TOF (Total Organic Fluorine). This type of testing is helpful in meeting blanket bans or when you’re unsure if PFAS compounds may be present, but it does not identify specific compounds.

In addition to testing, managing PFAS-containing foam safely also includes:

• Tracking legacy AFFF inventory
• Understanding product composition and shelf life
• Confirming proper storage, usage, and phaseout practices

Together, these efforts support safer firefighting operations, help meet evolving regulatory requirements and demonstrate environmental responsibility as the industry transitions to PFAS-free alternatives.

As the firefighting industry faces increasing pressure to eliminate PFAS-based products, staying informed and proactive is key. Understanding the risks, regulations, and testing methods empowers organizations to make responsible decisions. While Dyne Fire Protection Labs does not test directly for PFAS, our firefighting foam testing services help departments and industries check foam quality and performance throughout the transition from AFFF to PFAS-free alternatives.

By identifying issues early, continuing to test for foam quality, and assisting with proper disposal when PFAS-containing materials are found, we support safer firefighting operations, today and into the future.