What is wrong with foam firefighting

Although foam firefighting has many advantages, it also has disadvantages that are worth considering:

1. Foam residues: After using the foam system, there are foam residues that may be difficult to remove. Foam can contaminate equipment and surfaces, which requires additional cleaning and can lead to additional costs.
2. Impact on equipment: Foam can be abrasive and damage sensitive equipment, which is especially important for industrial and industrial facilities. The foam film may leave residues that need to be thoroughly cleaned to avoid damage.
3. Environmental impact: Some types of foam concentrate may be harmful to the environment. Foam solutions contain chemicals that can contaminate soil and reservoirs, which requires proper disposal.
4. Inefficiency for some types of fires: A foam system is ineffective for extinguishing fires involving live electrical equipment (Class E), as foam can conduct electric current and create a risk of short circuit.
5. Maintenance required: Foam systems require regular maintenance and inspection to ensure that they function properly and are ready for use in emergency situations. This includes checking the quality of the foam concentrate and the condition of the equipment.
6. Foaming agent consumption: Foam systems may require significant amounts of foaming agent, which can be expensive and require large stocks to ensure system availability.
7. Preservation problems: In some cases, foam may be less effective in conditions of high humidity or when exposed to chemicals, which may reduce its ability to form a stable coating.
8. Limited visibility: The foam system can create a dense layer of foam that makes it difficult to see in the fire area, which can complicate rescue operations and assessment of the situation.
9. Restrictions on use: Some types of foams, such as fluorinated ones, are subject to restrictions in use due to their potential effects on human health and the environment.

In general, despite their advantages, foam fire extinguishing systems require a careful approach to their selection, installation and operation in order to take into account their limitations and ensure effective and safe use.