PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have long been relied upon for their exceptional resistance to heat, water and oil. However, as understanding of their environmental impact has grown, so too has the need for careful, compliant handling, particularly when these substances appear in liquid waste streams.
At A Better Service (ABS), we support businesses with safe, fully compliant PFAS Liquid Waste Collection and disposal, helping you meet your legal obligations while protecting the environment and your operations.
Understanding PFAS Liquids in Industrial Processes
PFAS are a large group of synthetic chemicals, including compounds such as PFSAs (perfluoroalkyl sulfonic acids) and PFOA. What makes them so useful in manufacturing is also what makes them challenging, they are extremely stable and do not readily break down in the environment.
In liquid form, PFAS are commonly found in:
- Industrial wash waters and rinsing solutions
These are often generated during cleaning or finishing stages of production, where equipment or products are rinsed. PFAS residues can remain suspended in the water, meaning the liquid must be treated as contaminated waste rather than discharged.
- Chemical process fluids and residues
Many manufacturing processes use chemical baths or solutions that contain PFAS compounds. Once spent, these liquids can hold concentrated levels of contaminants and require controlled handling and disposal.
- Firefighting foam run-off
Aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs), historically used in fire safety, can leave behind PFAS-contaminated liquids after testing or use. This run-off can spread quickly across surfaces and enter drainage systems if not properly contained.
- Surface treatment and coating baths
PFAS are commonly used to create non-stick, water-resistant or protective finishes. The liquids used in these processes can become contaminated over time and must be replaced and disposed of safely.
- Wastewater from textile and waterproofing treatments
Textile manufacturers frequently use PFAS to achieve stain or water resistance. Wastewater from these treatments often carries diluted but persistent PFAS compounds that require specialist disposal.
- Filtration and separation liquids
Filtration systems designed to capture contaminants can themselves produce PFAS-containing liquid waste. These liquids may contain concentrated residues removed from production processes.
Different manufacturing sectors generate PFAS liquids in different ways. For example, metal plating facilities may produce contaminated rinse water, while textile manufacturers often deal with liquid residues from stain-resistant treatments.
Similarly, chemical production sites may generate concentrated PFAS liquid by-products requiring specialist containment and disposal.
Because these liquids can carry persistent contaminants, they must never be treated as general wastewater.
Why PFAS Liquid Waste Requires Specialist Disposal
PFAS chemicals are often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence.
When present in liquid waste, they can:
- Travel easily through water systems
Once released, PFAS liquids can move quickly through drainage networks and into natural watercourses. This mobility makes even small quantities a potential environmental risk if not controlled.
- Contaminate soil and groundwater
When PFAS liquids seep into the ground, they can remain there for long periods without breaking down. This can affect land quality and may require costly remediation work.
- Accumulate in living organisms over time
PFAS compounds can build up in plants, animals and humans, increasing the importance of preventing environmental exposure. This long-term accumulation is a key reason for tightening regulations.
This makes PFAS liquid waste collection and disposal a highly regulated process in the UK.
Businesses have a legal duty of care to ensure:
- Safe storage of hazardous liquids
Liquids must be stored in appropriate, clearly labelled containers to prevent leaks or accidental mixing with other waste streams. Proper storage also helps reduce risks to staff and the surrounding environment.
- Collection by licensed waste carriers
Only authorised providers can legally collect and transport hazardous PFAS liquids. This ensures that waste is handled by trained professionals using compliant procedures.
- Transport under compliant conditions
Hazardous liquids must be transported in suitable vehicles with the correct containment systems in place. This reduces the risk of spills during transit.
- Disposal at authorised treatment facilities
PFAS liquids must be processed at approved sites equipped to handle hazardous waste. These facilities use specialist methods to minimise environmental impact.
Failure to follow these requirements can lead to environmental harm and regulatory penalties.
Supporting Different Industries with PFAS Liquid Waste
We work with a broad range of sectors, each with its own challenges when it comes to PFAS liquids:
- Manufacturing and Engineering: process liquids and rinse waters
These industries often generate PFAS-contaminated liquids during machining, finishing or cleaning operations. Regular collection helps maintain safe and efficient production environments.
- Textiles and Fabrics: waterproofing and coating residues
PFAS are widely used to create stain-resistant and water-repellent materials. Liquid waste from these treatments must be carefully managed to prevent environmental release.
- Aviation and Fire Services: foam-contaminated liquids
Training exercises and emergency responses can produce large volumes of PFAS-contaminated run-off. These liquids require immediate containment and specialist disposal.
- Chemical Processing: concentrated PFAS by-products
Chemical manufacturing can produce high-strength PFAS liquid waste streams. These require robust handling procedures and expert disposal solutions.
- Industrial Cleaning: contaminated wash solutions
Cleaning fluids used in industrial settings can pick up PFAS residues from surfaces and equipment. These liquids must be collected and treated as hazardous waste.
Our flexible service ensures that whether you produce small volumes or large-scale liquid waste, you receive a solution that fits your operations.
ABS Accreditations and What They Mean for You
We are proud to hold a range of recognised accreditations that reflect our commitment to quality, safety and environmental responsibility.
- ISO 9001 (Quality Management)
This accreditation ensures that our processes are consistently monitored and improved, so you receive a reliable and high-quality service every time. It also means clear communication, accountability and a structured approach to meeting your needs.
- ISO 14001 (Environmental Management)
This demonstrates our commitment to reducing environmental impact through responsible waste handling and sustainable practices. For customers, it provides reassurance that their PFAS liquid waste is managed with environmental protection as a priority.
- ISO 45001 (Health & Safety)
This confirms that we operate to strict health and safety standards, protecting both our team and your site. It helps minimise risk during collection, handling and transport of hazardous liquids.
- Environment Agency Registration
Being fully registered ensures we are legally authorised to carry and manage hazardous waste. This gives you confidence that your business remains compliant with UK regulations.
- SafeContractor Accreditation
This shows that we meet recognised health and safety standards when working on-site. It provides additional peace of mind that all work is carried out safely and professionally.
These accreditations give our customers confidence that their PFAS liquid waste collection and disposal is being handled by a trusted and compliant provider.
Frequently Asked Questions: PFAS Liquid Waste
What types of liquid waste can contain PFAS?
PFAS can be present in wash water, chemical solutions, firefighting foam run-off, coating liquids and industrial wastewater from various manufacturing processes. These liquids may appear harmless but can still contain persistent contaminants requiring specialist handling.
Can PFAS liquids be poured into standard drainage systems?
No, PFAS-containing liquids must never enter general drainage systems as they can contaminate water supplies and the wider environment. Even diluted PFAS can pose long-term environmental risks.
How should PFAS liquid waste be stored before collection?
It should be kept in clearly labelled, sealed containers that are suitable for hazardous liquids and stored in a secure, designated area. This helps prevent leaks, accidental exposure and cross-contamination.
Are all PFAS liquids classified as hazardous waste?
Many PFAS-containing liquids are classified as hazardous due to their persistence and environmental risk. Classification will depend on concentration and composition, but a cautious approach is always recommended.
How often should PFAS liquid waste be collected?
This depends on your volume and processes, but regular, scheduled collections are recommended to maintain compliance and safe storage conditions. A planned schedule also helps avoid build-up and operational disruption.
Find out more about why the government is publishing its first PFAS plan.
