AFFF Chemical Transfer - Case Study

Chemical Transfer (AFFF) 

With the changes to AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam) regulations in 2025, we are helping more clients with the removal and disposal of their firefighting foams. We offer a comprehensive service including the safe removal, repacking and disposal of AFFF chemicals at fully licensed sites, along with the provision of all relevant documentation.

This can include the emptying of storage vessels and transfer of chemicals to IBCs, or the collection and disposal of AFFF containers. More information on these changes can be viewed on our recent Blog and the guidance from the Fire Industry Association that explains further the regulations on PFAS, PFOS and other chemicals in the UK and EU

Case Study 1: Emptying of a Storage Vessel and Disposal of AFFF for Fire Suppression Sprinkler System

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Task:

Emptying a storage vessel, careful transfer of contents of AFFF to suitable containers. Transport to a fully licensed waste disposal facility

Solution:

Hazclear was entrusted with the task of safely emptying a storage vessel that supplies AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam) for a fire suppression sprinkler system and ensuring the proper disposal of the foam it contained. Our team took the following steps:

1. On-Site Preparation:

   • Upon arrival, our team conducted a site assessment to ensure safety protocols were in place and to evaluate the best approach for transferring the AFFF. We ensured all necessary equipment and safety measures were available before starting the work.

2. Pumping and Transfer:

   • We used appropriate pumping equipment along with an anti-foam agent to safely transfer the AFFF from the storage vessel into Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs). This method prevented any foam contamination during the transfer process and ensured all material was handled carefully.

3. Labelling and Storage:

   • The IBCs were clearly labelled to ensure proper identification and traceability of the material. The containers were securely stored on-site while we coordinated the logistics for collection and transportation.

4. Disposal Coordination:

   • We arranged for the collection and transportation of the AFFF to a fully licensed disposal site. All relevant documentation was completed to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and proper disposal procedures.

Result:

By the end of the process, the storage vessel was left completely empty, as requested, and all AFFF was safely handled and disposed of in compliance with industry standards. Our team ensured that the entire operation was carried out efficiently, safely, and in full adherence to environmental regulations, providing peace of mind to our client.

Conclusion:

Hazclear’ s prompt and professional handling of the storage vessel emptying and AFFF disposal ensured minimal disruption and full compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Our use of specialized equipment and coordination for disposal guarantees that the process was conducted effectively and with the utmost care for safety and the environment.

CONTACT HAZCLEAR TODAY!

CALL US ON 01902 482526 or REQUEST A QUOTE ONLINE

Case Study 2:  Emergency Call-Out and Clean-Up of AFFF from Equipment Failure

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Task:

Emergency response to clean up AFFF following equipment failure

Solution:

Our team was called to the site for immediate clean-up to minimise disruption to operations. We took the following actions to resolve the situation safely and efficiently:

1. Prompt Response and Spill Removal:

   • Our team arrived quickly with a vacuum tanker, which was used to safely remove the spilled AFFF from the affected area. This equipment ensured that the foam was efficiently extracted without causing further contamination or spreading of the material.

2. Thorough Area Cleaning:

   • Once the foam was removed, we conducted a thorough cleaning of the affected area. This was done to ensure that the plant room was completely free from foam residues and safe for continued use.

   • Specialised cleaning agents were used to ensure the area was properly sanitised without damaging any surfaces or equipment.

3. Preparation for Maintenance and Repairs:

   • After the clean-up was completed, the plant room was left in a clean and safe state. This allowed the maintenance team to access the equipment fault and begin the necessary repairs without delay.

   • Our efforts ensured that the disruption to normal operations was minimised, allowing the facility to resume operations quickly and efficiently.

Conclusion:

Our prompt and professional response to the AFFF spill ensured that the affected area was cleaned up safely, minimising downtime and allowing the necessary repairs to be carried out. By using specialized equipment and methods, we provided an efficient solution that ensured the site was safe and ready for operations to resume with minimal disruption

CONTACT HAZCLEAR TODAY!

CALL US ON 01902 482526 or REQUEST A QUOTE ONLINE