Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF)
AFFF is highly concerning because it contains PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). PFAS are toxic chemicals known to negatively impact human health and do not easily break down in the environment, waterways, wildlife, or human bodies.
- PFAS are linked to negative health impacts in humans, including cancer.
- AFFF is the leading cause of PFAS contamination in drinking water.
As of 2018, Washington passed a law that restricts AFFF because of the dangers of PFAS. In 2024, we held a public comment for the AFFF draft Environmental Impact Statement that details the proposed collection and disposal program alternatives.
What are the dangers of AFFF?
AFFF is a key suspected source of PFAS-contamination in Washington drinking water.
PFAS pose risks to humans and wildlife, such as:
- Reproductive impairment.
- Increased cancer risk.
- Reduced immune system response.
It is estimated that nearly all Americans have some amount of PFAS in their blood.
- Learn how to reduce your exposure to PFAS.
How does AFFF contaminate drinking water with PFAS?
The most common ways that PFAS have contaminated drinking water is by way of using AFFF for fire suppression activities, such as:
- Putting fires out.
- System testing (e.g., required testing at airports).
- Fire training (Note: AFFF is banned for fire training as of 2018).
- Spills or accidental release.
Once PFAS are released into the environment, they are difficult to clean up because they:
- Easily dissolve in water.
PFAS are highly mobile and can quickly contaminate groundwater, drinking water, and other natural areas. - Do not break down naturally.
PFAS build up in the environment over time with no natural way to be removed, which may increase our risk of exposure to PFAS for hundreds or thousands of years.
Why does AFFF contain PFAS?
PFAS are the chemicals that create the “film” in aqueous film-forming foam. They put fires out by cutting off the oxygen between the flammable liquid and air, which is what keeps fires burning once ignited.
PFAS are used because of their ability to:
- Resist heat.
- Easily dissolve in water.
- Spread quickly so they put out fires faster.
What are we doing about AFFF?
Toxics in Firefighting Law
In 2018, the Legislature passed the Toxics in Firefighting law which restricts AFFF in Washington. AFFF can no longer be:
- Manufactured.
- Sold.
- Used for fire training.
AFFF is still allowed for emergencies and actual fires that require it, until an alternative is found.
AFFF collection and disposal program
We are developing an AFFF collection and disposal program to help fire departments in Washington safely manage their AFFF stock.
Watch our video about input-based test boxes to learn more.
AFFF reduction support for airports
In 2021, we launched a program that provides airports with funds to purchase equipment (known as input-based test boxes) that allows them to test their firefighting capabilities without dispensing AFFF.
Under federal law, commercial airports must test their ability to dispense AFFF each year.
Related links
Contact information
Sean Smith
Product replacement coordinator
sean.smith@ecy.wa.gov
425-324-0328
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