SOLAS 2026 Countdown: Everything You Need to Know About PFOS-FREE Firefighting on Ships

The maritime industry is facing a significant regulatory shift. As part of a global effort to protect both human health and the marine environment, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has finalized amendments to SOLAS Chapter II-2. The target? PFOS (Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid) in fire-extinguishing foam.

With the deadline fast approaching, shipowners and managers must act now to ensure their fleet remains compliant and operational.

While we are talking about SOLAS – Have you already read our article about: Fire Extinguishers on Board: The Foundation of Fleet Safety – Selection, Maintenance, and Compliance?

What is PFOS and Why is it Being Banned?

PFOS belongs to a group of synthetic chemicals known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), often called “forever chemicals” because they do not break down in the environment.

• Environmental Impact: They accumulate in marine food chains and contaminate water.
• Health Risk: Exposure has been linked to serious health issues for seafarers and firefighters.

Under the new IMO resolutions (including MSC.532(107)), the use of firefighting foams containing PFOS is strictly prohibited from January 1, 2026.

The Compliance Timeline: Key Dates

It is crucial to understand that the “deadline” depends on the vessel’s status:

Vessel Category	Compliance Deadline
New Ships (Keel laid on/after Jan 1, 2026)	Must be PFOS-free upon delivery.
Existing Ships	Must comply by the first survey (annual, periodical, or renewal) after January 1, 2026.

What Equipment is Affected?

The ban isn’t limited to just one type of extinguisher. It applies to any system or unit using foam agents, specifically:

1. Portable Fire Extinguishers: Handheld 6L or 9L foam units.
2. Semi-Portable Units (Foam Aggregates): Larger 25L, 50L, or 135L wheeled units used in machinery spaces.
3. Fixed Fire-Extinguishing Systems: Deck foam systems on tankers and high-expansion foam systems in engine rooms.
4. Stored Foam Concentrates: Any spare foam canisters kept in storage.

Important: To be considered “PFOS-FREE,” the foam must have a concentration of PFOS equal to or less than 10 mg/kg (10 ppm).

How to Prepare Your Fleet: A Step-by-Step Guide

Transitioning to PFOS-free alternatives is more than just a simple “refill.” It requires a professional approach:

• Step 1: Inventory Audit. Identify all foam-based units on board. Check the production date and manufacturer’s data sheets.
• Step 2: Verification. If documentation is missing, the foam must be laboratory-tested or assumed to contain PFOS and replaced.
• Step 3: Disposal & Cleaning. Old foam cannot be dumped at sea. It must be delivered to a shore-based reception facility. Crucially, tanks and aggregates must be thoroughly flushed to avoid contaminating the new, clean foam.
• Step 4: Certification. Ensure your new PFOS-free foam comes with a valid Declaration of Conformity and MED certification.

How Alfa OnBoard Supports Your Transition

Navigating new SOLAS regulations can be complex. Alfa OnBoard is here to simplify the process. We provide:

• Certified PFOS-FREE Equipment: A full range of portable and semi-portable foam units already compliant with 2026 standards.
• Compliance Consulting: We help you identify which units in your fleet need replacement.
• Certified Agents: High-quality, eco-friendly foam concentrates that meet the latest maritime requirements without sacrificing extinguishing power.

The 2026 deadline is not just a regulatory hurdle; it’s an opportunity to modernize your fleet’s safety standards. By acting early, you avoid the rush, ensure smooth inspections, and protect the ocean we all depend on.