How to document PFOS-free fire extinguishing foam on board
Information for: Owners/managers, shipyards, manufacturers, and flag states.
NEED TO KNOW
All firefighting foams on board (fixed systems and portable equipment) must be documented as PFOS‑free, either by a manufacturer’s declaration, an accredited laboratory test or a TA/MED certificate stating PFOS‑free status. Foams without acceptable documentation must be replaced.
Documentation must be traceable to the actual foam on board.
At the first safety equipment survey after 1 January 2026, all fire-extinguishing foams on board must be PFOS-free, and this must be verified by the attending surveyor. Compliance will prevent part-held surveys and/or Conditions of Authority. Here is a short summary of how to document compliance. This news is a follow up of our news from November 2025.
