2023-30_ARFF_Aqueous_Film_Forming_Foam_Transition_BC.pdf

This document is a project proposal from the CVG Airport Authority for transitioning Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) to Fluorine Free Foam (F3) firefighting equipment. The project aims to fund the transition of ARFF firefighting and supply equipment from AFFF to F3, with the primary objective of replacing current firefighting foam agents to combat fuel fires. The Department of Defense (DOD) has committed to certifying a foam manufacturer's product for MILSPEC F3 certification by October 1, 2023, with early procurement expected as soon as August 1, 2023. The project involves transitioning foam systems at two ARFF stations, which currently maintain approximately 7,025 total gallons of foam inventory across vehicles, storage tanks, and foam trailers.

The total project cost is estimated at $1,567,950, which includes $1,327,950 for operations and maintenance, and $300,000 for design/construction with a Q3 2023 appropriation request. The project schedule includes foam procurement in August 2023, design effort in January 2024, and construction/decontamination in July 2026. Key risks and limitations include potential reduced fire suppression effectiveness, higher costs compared to AFFF, limited product availability, and the need for firefighter retraining. The transition is driven by regulatory changes from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and increasing restrictions on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foam.