C6-AFFF (Aqueous Film-Forming Foam) firefighting foam will be banned in New Zealand as of December 3, 2025, as part of a broader phase-out of PFAS-containing firefighting foams due to environmental and health concerns.
What is C6-AFFF?
C6-AFFF is a type of firefighting foam containing per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of artificial chemicals with growing environmental and health concerns.
Why the ban?
PFAS are persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that do not break down easily in the environment and can bioaccumulate, meaning they build up in the bodies of living things. They have been linked to serious health issues, including liver damage and cancer.
Phase-out timeline:
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has been phasing out PFAS-containing firefighting foams since 2020. The use of C6-AFFF in contained firefighting systems will be banned as of December 3, 2025
What to do?
If you use C6-AFFF foam, you should start planning to transition to alternative firefighting foams as soon as possible. PSL Fire & Safety offers an environmentally friendly Fluorine-Free Foam, which you can find here.
Our business development managers are available to assist and offer advice.
North Island
Alistair Ramsey - alistair@pslfireandsafety.co.nz / 021 615 417
Jamie Shaw - jamie@pslfireandsafety.co.nz / 027 239 8599
South Island
Murray Lamb - murray@pslfireandsafety.co.nz / 027 722 2265
