Restriction on the use of AFFF-C6 offshore

In our opinion, AFFF-LF-C6 foams as used in the North Sea UKCS do not, at this moment, have a Fluorine Free drop-in replacement which can be used by our offshore customers.

However, the rate of development of F3 foam is such that it is safe to assume that within the next 5+ years a suitable F3 foam will be available to meet offshore needs.

Several problems need resolved in regards to F3 foams relating to:

• application rates
• international critical performance standards
• possible redesigning of produced foam equipment
• the inability of available F3 foams to perform as well as AFFF-C6 foams

For these reasons, Oil Technics (Fire Fighting Products) Ltd., manufacturer of AFFF for over 35 years, is recommending to the European Committee for Socio-economic Analysis (SEAC) that a derogation on the proposed restriction of the use of AFFF offshore is applied. Such a derogation has already been granted to the use of AFFF on tank farms.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss this subject further, please don't hesitate to contact us.