Prohibition of usage of Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid (PFOS) in Fire-Fighting Foams

What’s new?

Refer to the new adopted regulations by MSC 107, use or storage of extinguishing media containing perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) shall be prohibited.

Based on the new adopted regulation (SOLAS Ch. II-2, Reg. 10.11), for all ships constructed on or after 1 January 2026, the prohibited substances in this regulation shall be delivered to appropriate shore-based reception facilities when removed from the ship.

For ships constructed before the EIF date, this regulation will be applied at the first survey after 1 January 2026. 

Why are some PFOS a problem?

PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate) is a synthetic chemical that falls into the category of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These chemicals have been widely used in various industrial and consumer products due to their exceptional water and oil repellency, heat resistance, and chemical stability. However, PFOS and other PFAS substances have also raised significant concerns due to their potential adverse effects on human health and the environment.

Here are some reasons why PFOS is considered a problem:

1. Persistence and bioaccumulation: PFOS is highly persistent in the environment and does not readily degrade. As a result, it can persist for many years, leading to long-term exposure. Moreover, PFOS is bio-accumulative, meaning it can accumulate in the bodies of living organisms over time, reaching high concentrations in certain species, including humans.
2. Health risks: Research suggests that exposure to PFOS may be linked to various health effects, including developmental toxicity, reproductive problems, liver damage, immune system dysfunction, and certain types of cancer. Although more studies are needed to fully understand the extent of the health risks, many regulatory agencies have taken precautionary measures to limit human exposure to PFOS.
3. Environmental impact: PFOS can contaminate water bodies, both surface water and groundwater, due to its widespread use and persistence. This contamination can have negative consequences for aquatic ecosystems and wildlife. PFOS can harm aquatic organisms, disrupt biological processes, and threaten biodiversity.

Recognizing the potential risks and environmental impact of PFOS, many countries and international organizations have taken steps to restrict its production, use, and release.