Ban on PFOS in Firefighting Media Aboard Vessels from 2026

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Mfame Editor
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  • PFOS is a toxic chemical linked to environmental and health risks.
  • The Stockholm Convention has pushed for PFOS elimination since 2009.
  • Ships must replace PFOS foam and clean systems before their first survey.

As of January 1, 2026, the use and storage of perfluoro-octane sulfonic acid (PFOS) in firefighting media onboard ships will be banned. This is founded on SOLAS Chapter II-2, Part C, Regulation 10 amendments, as set out in MSC.532(107), reports North Standard.

What is PFOS and Why is it Dangerous?

PFOS is classified under the Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) category of chemicals, famously referred to as “forever chemicals” owing to their persistent degradation and permanent environmental persistence. PFOS has been found to accumulate in people and is also associated with extensive health hazards that range from causing cancer. With their high stability and low surface tension, the chemicals have seen extensive application across numerous products, especially firefighting foams. PFOS is often present in Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), which is applied on ships to fight fires in flammable solids and liquids.

Global Efforts to Phase Out PFOS

Since 2009, PFOS has been identified as a hazardous pollutant by the Stockholm Convention, and efforts have been made to phase out its use. Phased out in later years have been other PFAS chemicals. New AFFF manufactured within the EU is therefore likely to be PFOS-free.

Steps for Vessel Compliance

Existing vessels with firefighting media holding PFOS should have their stock replaced before the first scheduled survey on or after January 1, 2026. These include:

  1. Pre-ordering compliant replacement firefighting media.
  2. Accurate disposal of non-compliant foam.
  3. The cleaning of AFFF bulk tanks and systems free of all residues of PFOS.

Testing and Certification Requirements

Ships who are unsure that their firefighting foam contains PFOS should get a sample laboratory tested. All replacement firefighting media must be:

  1. Approved and certified to IMO standards.
  2. Attached with an approval certificate specifically verifying it is free of PFOS.

Proper Disposal of PFOS-Containing Media

All old firefighting media containing PFOS must be delivered to shore-based reception facilities for safe and environmentally responsible disposal. Vessel crews should coordinate with port officials well before the deadline to ensure compliance with disposal regulations.

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Source: North Standard