K21045-SCP10 for Cleaning Fire Protection Systems Contaminated with PFAS Firefighting Foam

The Specific Certification Programme (SCP) 10 – Cleaning of Foam Systems in Context with PFAS provides a structured framework for the cleaning of fire protection systems where PFAS-containing firefighting foams have been used. SCP10 supports organizations in carrying out cleaning procedures correctly while ensuring the safe collection, handling, and disposal of PFAS-contaminated waste streams in accordance with applicable legislation and industry best practices.

Transitioning to PFAS-Free Foam Concentrates

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) comprise a group of more than 6,000 synthetic chemicals that contain fluorinated carbon chains. While PFAS offer valuable performance characteristics such as heat resistance and surfactant properties, they are also known as "forever chemicals" because they persist in the environment and degrade very slowly.

As PFAS can accumulate in soil, water, wildlife, and the human food chain, concerns regarding their environmental and health impacts have led to increasing regulatory restrictions worldwide. Consequently, many organizations are replacing traditional PFAS-based firefighting foam with environmentally responsible PFAS-free foam concentrates.

PFAS Decontamination of Fire Protection Systems

PFAS-containing firefighting foam has been widely used across industries and is commonly stored in foam tanks, mobile firefighting vehicles, and fixed fire suppression systems. As companies transition to fluorine-free alternatives, proper decontamination of existing systems becomes essential.

The cleaning process is technically demanding because PFAS compounds can remain embedded within tanks, pipework, valves, pumps, proportioning equipment, and other critical system components. Without adequate cleaning, residual PFAS can contaminate the new foam concentrate, compromising environmental objectives and regulatory compliance.

Effective PFAS decontamination therefore requires specialized procedures, validated cleaning methods, representative sampling, laboratory analysis, and controlled waste management practices.

Why Choose SCP10 Certification?

During the removal of fluorinated firefighting foam, PFAS residues can remain present throughout the foam system. To prevent these substances from contaminating replacement fluorine-free foams and entering the environment, fire protection systems must undergo a thorough and verifiable cleaning process.

A key challenge for asset owners and service providers is determining:

• How can a firefighting foam system be effectively cleaned?
• What cleaning methods should be applied?
• How should sampling and laboratory analysis be conducted?
• What criteria demonstrate successful decontamination?
• How should PFAS-contaminated waste be managed and disposed of?

The industry has a strong need for clear guidance on cleaning procedures, sampling protocols, analysis methods, and the disposal of PFAS-contaminated materials. This need is particularly evident in sectors such as:

• Chemical manufacturing
• Petrochemical facilities
• Tank terminals and bulk liquid storage
• Energy and industrial facilities
• Airports and aviation infrastructure

To address these challenges, Kiwa facilitated a collaborative platform involving industry stakeholders and technical experts to develop practical guidelines for cleaning fire protection systems previously exposed to PFAS-containing firefighting foams.

K21045 Fire Protection Systems Certification Framework

The SCP10 Cleaning Foam Systems PFAS certification programme operates under the internationally applicable K21045 Fire Protection Systems testing, inspection, and certification scheme.

K21045 provides a comprehensive quality assurance framework for active fire protection systems throughout their lifecycle, including:

• Manufacturing
• Installation
• Commissioning
• Inspection
• Maintenance
• Operation by end users

The scheme enables independent verification that fire protection systems and associated services meet defined quality and performance requirements.

Benefits of K21045 SCP10 Certification

Although certification under K21045 SCP10 Cleaning Foam Systems PFAS is not mandatory, it offers significant benefits for organizations involved in PFAS remediation and fire protection system cleaning.

• Demonstrated Compliance
  Certification demonstrates that cleaning activities are performed in accordance with recognized industry standards and applicable regulations.
• Reduced Environmental Risk
  Properly certified cleaning processes minimize the likelihood of PFAS cross-contamination and environmental pollution.
• Increased Regulatory Confidence
  Demonstrable compliance can facilitate communication with regulators, environmental authorities, and inspectors.
• Independent Quality Assurance
  Third-party certification validates that cleaning processes are carried out consistently and professionally.
• Enhanced Customer Trust
  Certification provides assurance to customers, insurers, investors, and other stakeholders that PFAS remediation activities are undertaken responsibly.

BRL Under Continuous Development

The first version of the assessment guideline (BRL) has recently been introduced to the market and remains under active development. Regular evaluations are conducted in collaboration with industry stakeholders to ensure the programme reflects the latest technological, regulatory, and scientific developments related to PFAS management and fire protection systems.

Kiwa welcomes additional experts, industry representatives, and knowledge partners who wish to contribute to the ongoing improvement and broader acceptance of the certification programme.

Interested in participating or contributing to future developments? Contact Kiwa for more information.