Foam Fire Suppression Systems in the UK
Understanding Foam Fire Suppression
Foam fire suppression systems are highly effective for fires involving flammable liquids (Class B fires) and high-risk industrial environments. These systems work by covering the fuel surface with a foam blanket, cooling the fire, separating the fuel from oxygen, and preventing re-ignition.
Foam suppression is widely used in petrochemical plants, fuel storage facilities, aircraft hangars, and industrial sites where flammable liquids and vapours present a high fire risk. Compliance with UK fire safety regulations is critical to ensuring the effectiveness and legal compliance of these systems.
Types of Foam Fire Suppression Systems
| System Type | How It Works | Best For | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low-Expansion Foam | Expands up to 20 times its liquid volume, forming a thin foam blanket | Fuel storage, industrial plants | Limited to direct application areas |
| Medium-Expansion Foam | Expands between 20-200 times its volume for better area coverage | Aircraft hangars, chemical storage | Requires more foam concentrate |
| High-Expansion Foam | Expands over 200 times its volume, filling large enclosed spaces | Warehouses, tunnels, marine vessels | Ineffective in outdoor environments |
| AFFF (Aqueous Film-Forming Foam) | Forms a thin film over liquid fuel, rapidly suppressing flames | Fuel stations, refineries, airports | May contain PFAS chemicals (environmental concerns) |
| AR-AFFF (Alcohol-Resistant AFFF) | Specifically designed for alcohol and polar solvent fires | Chemical plants, breweries, paint factories | More expensive than standard AFFF |
| Protein-Based Foam | Derived from natural proteins, forms a dense foam blanket | Oil refineries, hydrocarbon fires | Slower application compared to synthetic foams |
| Synthetic Fluorine-Free Foam (F3) | Environmentally friendly alternative to AFFF, non-toxic | General industrial use, aviation | Less effective than traditional fluorinated foams |
UK Regulations and Standards for Foam Fire Suppression
Foam suppression systems must comply with UK fire safety regulations to ensure effectiveness, environmental protection, and safety. Below are key regulations and standards governing foam suppression:
1. Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
- Requires businesses to assess fire risks and implement appropriate fire protection measures.
- Ensures proper maintenance and testing of suppression systems.
2. British Standards for Foam Suppression Systems
- BS EN 13565-2 – Requirements for fixed firefighting foam systems.
- BS 5306-0 – Fire protection equipment and suppression system maintenance.
- BS EN 1568 – Performance standards for foam concentrates.
3. Building Regulations (Approved Document B)
- Specifies fire suppression requirements for high-risk buildings.
- Addresses the use of foam suppression in industrial and commercial environments.
4. Environmental Regulations
- Environment Agency Regulations – Restrictions on foam concentrates containing PFAS due to environmental impact.
- EU REACH Regulations – Phasing out hazardous chemicals in firefighting foams.
5. NFCC (National Fire Chiefs Council) Guidance
- Provides best practices for foam suppression in airports, fuel depots, and industrial applications.
- Encourages the adoption of fluorine-free foams for environmental safety.
Key Considerations for Foam Fire Suppression Systems
To ensure optimal fire protection, foam suppression systems should be designed, installed, and maintained in compliance with UK fire safety regulations. Key factors to consider include:
✅ Fire Risk Assessment – Identify potential hazards, especially flammable liquid fires.
✅ Foam Concentrate Selection – Choose the right type of foam (e.g., AFFF, AR-AFFF, protein-based, fluorine-free).
✅ Foam Expansion Ratio – Select low, medium, or high expansion based on application needs.
✅ Regulatory Compliance – Ensure compliance with BS EN 13565-2, BS EN 1568, and environmental laws.
✅ System Maintenance and Testing – Regular inspections to verify foam quality and system functionality.
Final Thoughts
Foam fire suppression systems provide critical fire protection for high-risk environments, particularly those involving flammable liquids and hazardous materials. Ensuring the correct foam selection, system design, and regulatory compliance is essential for effective fire suppression.
✅ Assess fire risks and choose the appropriate foam type.
✅ Ensure compliance with British Standards and environmental regulations.
✅ Conduct regular system maintenance and performance testing.
By implementing the right foam fire suppression system, businesses and industries can enhance fire safety, reduce environmental impact, and comply with UK fire protection laws.