As long as they’re in place, serviced, and up to code, they tend to blend into the background. But as the fire protection industry evolves, a quiet revolution is taking place - and not everyone agrees on what it should look like.
A Shift Toward Greener, Smarter Extinguishers
In recent years, manufacturers have made big strides in improving the sustainability of fire safety equipment. One of the most notable innovations has come from Britannia Fire, a UK-based manufacturer that has shifted to the use of composite materials in place of traditional steel.
Unlike conventional extinguishers, which often need annual servicing and can corrode over time, these newer designs are typically lighter, longer-lasting, and more resistant to wear. Some models can be maintained through simple visual checks rather than full engineer servicing, helping to reduce both environmental impact and cost over their lifespan.
The environmental benefits are clear: lower maintenance demands, less waste, and manufacturing processes that can incorporate recycled materials or renewable energy sources. Several UK manufacturers have seen increased demand for these new designs as organisations look for more sustainable, cost-effective options that align with their wider ESG goals.
Companies across sectors - from education to commercial property - have praised these innovations for their efficiency, versatility, and contribution to reducing overall carbon footprints.
The PFAS Question and Global Regulation
Another key driver of change is the move to eliminate PFAS chemicals, sometimes known as “forever chemicals,” from firefighting foams and other safety products. These substances are under increasing scrutiny worldwide for their potential environmental and health impacts.
Across Europe and the UK, regulators are taking steps toward tighter controls and eventual phase-outs of PFAS-containing materials in firefighting equipment. Forward-thinking manufacturers are already adapting, developing PFAS-free products that meet performance standards while reducing environmental risk.
The Other Side of the Story
While innovation brings opportunity, it also raises important questions about compliance and accreditation.
Not every new product type fits neatly within existing certification frameworks. In the UK, fire safety products are often installed and maintained by companies accredited through schemes such as BAFE (British Approvals for Fire Equipment) - which ensures competence, quality, and adherence to fire safety law.
For some facilities managers and safety professionals, any product that sits outside recognised approval schemes can present uncertainty around inspection, servicing, or accountability. That doesn’t necessarily make these technologies unsafe, but it highlights the importance of checking that all equipment meets relevant standards and is supported by competent installation and maintenance practices.
Balancing Innovation and Compliance
The conversation around greener extinguishers reflects a broader challenge for the fire safety sector: how to embrace sustainability and innovation while maintaining robust safety assurance.
Composite models and PFAS-free technologies offer tangible environmental benefits - but regulations, inspection protocols, and competency frameworks need to evolve alongside them.
Ultimately, innovation should enhance safety, not compromise it.
The Bottom Line
Composite and environmentally-friendly extinguishers represent an exciting step forward for the industry. But, as with all safety equipment, success lies in striking the right balance between performance, compliance, and sustainability.
For building owners, facilities teams, and safety professionals, the key takeaways are simple:
✅ Choose equipment that suits your environment and risk profile.
✅ Verify that it meets all applicable standards or approvals.
✅ Work with accredited, competent fire safety providers.
Because the best fire extinguisher isn’t just the one that works when you need it — it’s the one that protects people, property, and the planet responsibly.
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