CheckFire responds to upcoming EU restrictions on PFAS chemicals

CheckFire Ltd is taking action to align its operations with upcoming EU restrictions on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs).

These chemicals, often referred to as ‘forever chemicals,’ will be regulated under new rules set by the European Chemicals Agency, which will come into effect in December 2030.

In anticipation of this, CheckFire will begin phasing out select fire extinguishers in its Commander and CommanderEDGE ranges that contain PFHxA, a type of PFAS.

This proactive move comes as CheckFire aims to stay ahead of environmental regulations by discontinuing these products as early as October 2024.

The company believes this decision will help its customers smoothly transition in compliance with the UK’s future PFAS ban.

New Green Crosshair range introduced to replace PFAS products

In place of the discontinued products, CheckFire is developing a new line of fluorine-free extinguishers.

This new range, known as Green Crosshair, will be part of the company’s wider Green Range initiative.

As reported by CheckFire, this line will meet the demand for PFAS-free fire safety products while maintaining the same high standards of quality and performance for which CheckFire is known.

The company has been preparing for this transition, understanding the importance of removing chemicals that pose risks to the environment and living organisms.

The new Green Crosshair products will offer environmentally responsible alternatives without compromising effectiveness.

CheckFire’s approach to sustainability and compliance

CheckFire’s decision to act now demonstrates its commitment to sustainability.

Cameron Robins, managing director of CheckFire, emphasised the significance of this shift for the fire safety sector.

He said: “The upcoming EU PFAS restrictions represent a significant shift for the fire safety sector, emphasising the need for sustainable solutions.

“By discontinuing PFAS-containing products now and introducing fluorine-free alternatives, we are not only ensuring compliance but also leading the industry towards a safer and more environmentally responsible future.”

This transition highlights the importance of businesses preparing for future regulatory changes, allowing both the industry and consumers to benefit from advancements in sustainability.

PFAS ban marks industry-wide change in fire safety standards

The upcoming EU-wide ban on PFAS will affect many industries, with fire safety being particularly impacted due to the presence of these chemicals in certain extinguishers.

PFAS substances, such as PFHxA, have been widely used in various industries for their fire-resistant properties.

However, due to their persistence in the environment, they have come under increased scrutiny.

CheckFire’s decision to develop PFAS-free alternatives reflects a broader industry shift towards sustainability.

As regulations tighten, other companies in the sector are expected to follow suit, driving innovation in safer and greener fire safety solutions.

CheckFire prepares for EU-wide PFAS ban with new fluorine-free fire extinguisher range: Summary

CheckFire Ltd is discontinuing fire extinguishers containing PFAS chemicals ahead of an EU-wide ban set for 2030.

The company is phasing out products in its Commander and CommanderEDGE ranges by October 2024 to ensure compliance with the future UK PFAS regulations.

CheckFire has introduced a new Green Crosshair range under its Green Range initiative, offering fluorine-free alternatives that maintain its standards of performance and quality.

Managing director Cameron Robins said that this shift supports the fire safety sector’s move towards sustainability.

The ban marks a major change in industry standards, encouraging other companies to adopt greener fire safety technologies.