Banning PFOS in Ship's Foam for a Healthier Ocean & Seafarer

 
Banning PFOS in Ship's Foam for a 

Healthier Ocean & Seafarer



As per SOLAS and MSC .1 circ 1312/670 , 2 litre of foam sample should be checked for the following parameters:

Sedimentation

pH value

Expansion ratio

Drainage time/stability

Volumic mass

Small scale fire test and chemical stability test for protein based alcohol resistant foam concentratres.

 

In the maritime industry, change often sets sail on the horizon, driven by a commitment to safety, sustainability, and environmental responsibility. The latest change making waves is the ban on a chemical called PFOS, found in fire-fighting foams used on ships. This ban, set to take effect on January 1, 2026, marks a significant stride toward safeguarding our oceans and health.

 

PFOS: The Troubling Chemical

 

PFOS, or perfluorooctane sulfonic acid, belongs to a group of chemicals known as perfluorinated alkylated substances (PFAS) or perfluorochemicals (PFCs). These chemicals have found their way into various industrial processes and consumer products. However, PFOS is no ordinary chemical; it has a dark side.

 

Health and Environmental Hazards

 

The dangers of PFOS are manifold. It poses a significant risk to human health. Studies have shown a link between long-chain PFAS like PFOS and liver malfunction, immune system disruption, endocrine system effects, neurobehavioral problems, and an increased risk of testicular and kidney cancer. It is a toxic substance that has no place in our environment.

 

Persistent Accumulation

 

One of the most concerning aspects of PFOS is its persistence. Once released into the environment, PFOS lingers, continually exposing humans, wildlife, and ecosystems to its harmful effects. This long-term accumulation amplifies the urgency of its removal from our surroundings.

 

Regulations to the Rescue

 

The International Maritime Organization (IMO), a cornerstone of maritime governance, has acted decisively. During the 8th session of the IMO's Sub-Committee on Ship Systems and Equipment (SSE), regulations were finalized to prohibit the use of fire-fighting foams containing PFOS.

 

Key Regulations Include:

 

Prohibition on New Ships: Starting January 1, 2026, new ships will be banned from using PFOS-containing foams.

 

Existing Ship Compliance: Existing ships are required to eliminate PFOS from their fire-fighting foams within five years from the date this requirement comes into force.

 

Proper Disposal: Regulations mandate that extinguishing media containing PFOS-based foams must be delivered to appropriate shore-based reception facilities when removed from the ship. This ensures proper disposal and minimizes environmental contamination.

 

Testing for PFOS

 

To adhere to these regulations, ship operators may need to confirm the absence of PFOS in their foams. If the product name or purchase date cannot be determined, sending a sample to an analytical laboratory for testing using the EPA Method 537 is a prudent step.

 

Charting a Cleaner Course

 

The ban on PFOS in ship's foam is a testament to the maritime industry's commitment to the environment and human health. It's a pivotal step toward cleaner, safer oceans. By embracing these regulations, mariners are not only protecting the oceans they navigate but also the communities and ecosystems that depend on them.

 

As we sail into a future where environmental stewardship is paramount, the banning of PFOS is a beacon of hope. It signifies our collective responsibility to preserve the beauty and vitality of our oceans for generations to come.


To train your ship's personnel, kindly register using the following link:

 

https://forms.gle/DXezXFFBJgNZhWq5A

 

 

 

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