The Rise of PFAS Pollution
British water courses are under serious threat. Toxic ‘forever chemicals’ (PFAS) have been detected at dangerous levels across the United Kingdom, sparking national headlines and widespread public concern.
According to a recent Guardian investigation, alarmingly high PFAS levels have been found at hundreds of sites across England. These persistent chemicals are often introduced into watercourses through inadequate runoff control, drainage failure, or outdated pollution containment systems.
The Guardian revealed troubling insights into the extent of the issue. “Forever chemicals” known scientifically as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have been detected at dangerously high levels in hundreds of water bodies across England. From urban drainage channels to rural streams, the presence of these chemicals is far more widespread and persistent than once believed.
“Nearly all rivers, lakes and ponds in England tested for a range of PFAS, known as “forever chemicals”, exceed proposed new safety limits and 85% contain levels at least five times higher,” The Guardian reported, citing Environment Agency data.
PFAS, used historically in firefighting foams, industrial coatings, and many manufacturing processes, do not degrade. Once released into the environment, often via surface water runoff or accidental discharge, they accumulate within local ecosystems, the food chain and our bodies. They are known to be linked to cancers, immune system damage and hormonal disruption.
In 2021, the Chief Scientists Report Group identified that “detectable levels of PFOS are found at over 99% of surface water sites sampled and detectable levels of PFOA at over 99% of freshwater sites and over 96% of estuarine and coastal sites sampled.” – Poly‑and perfluoroalkyl substances – sources, pathways and environmental data Report
For industrial site operators, this is more than just a public health concern; it’s a legal and reputational risk. With government and media scrutiny intensifying, the spotlight is now firmly on pollution containment strategies. Businesses need to act quickly and responsibly to ensure they’re not the next headline.
The Regulatory Pressure on Industrial Sites
With PFAS contamination reaching public attention, regulatory frameworks are rapidly evolving. Site operators are under mounting pressure to:
- Prevent chemical runoff from entering surface waters
- Ensure emergency pollution containment systems are in place
- Comply with CIRIA C736 and other environmental standards
- Meet growing expectations under UK spill containment regulations
The CIRIA C736 guidance, for example, outlines best practices for containment systems used to prevent pollution from firewater, chemicals and other hazardous substances. It mandates active and passive pollution control, appropriate barrier technologies and response protocols.
Sites relying on aging or manual penstock valve systems may find themselves out of step with these expectations. And non-compliance could mean prosecution, environmental harm and long-term brand damage.
Traditional Penstock Valves: A Failing Legacy?
For decades, penstock gate valves, motorised penstock valves and manual isolation systems have been the industry standard for drainage and containment control. But as PFAS threats evolve, these traditional solutions are increasingly unfit for purpose.
Key Limitations:
- Manual operation: Requires in-person input, often in unsafe conditions or with critical delays.
- Corrosion vulnerability: Especially problematic in chemical-heavy runoff.
- Seal reliability: In high-flow or emergency scenarios, older valves can leak or fail to engage fully.
- Slow response times: Delay in closure can result in irreversible environmental release.
- No remote or automatic activation: Makes real-time control in fast-moving scenarios impossible.
In the context of PFAS containment, these shortcomings are more than inconvenient; they are dangerous. Contamination events are rarely predictable. In many cases, by the time an operator is aware of the issue, the discharge has already occurred.
With this in mind, industries are seeking next-generation pollution control valves. Systems that are fast, reliable and smart.
Introducing ToggleBlok®
– A New Standard in Containment
Sandfield Penstock Solutions developed the ToggleBlok® valve as a modern, reliable and intelligent alternative to conventional containment systems.
What is ToggleBlok® ?
ToggleBlok®
is an innovative, remote‑activated pollution containment valve designed specifically for surface water control, firewater containment and emergency spill isolation. It provides instant response with a tight seal, without requiring onsite personnel or risky interventions.
“ToggleBlok® isn’t just a valve, it’s a containment system designed with real‑world site conditions and compliance challenges in mind.”
David Cole, Sandfield Penstock Solutions Technical Lead
Why ToggleBlok® Outperforms Traditional Systems
ToggleBlok® uses passive pollution containment principles, but with the intelligence and responsiveness of an automatic shut‑off valve drainage system.
Its robust stainless steel body, automated activation system, and modular integration make it ideal for both new builds and retrofit projects across the utilities, manufacturing and renewables sectors.
What makes PFAS so dangerous?
PFAS are synthetic chemicals that do not break down in the environment. They bioaccumulate in wildlife and humans, and have been linked to cancer, liver damage, and immune system issues. Once in a watercourse, they’re nearly impossible to remove.
How does ToggleBlok® work during a spill?
ToggleBlok® can be activated remotely or linked to on‑site sensors. When triggered, it seals the drainage line immediately, preventing any contaminated water from leaving the site. It’s ideal for both emergency pollution containment and routine runoff management.
Can I retrofit ToggleBlok® into an existing system?
Yes. ToggleBlok® is designed for easy retrofitting into existing drainage penstock systems or new installations. Our engineers provide support to ensure minimal disruption and maximum performance.
Is ToggleBlok® CIRIA C736 compliant?
Yes. ToggleBlok® fully aligns with CIRIA C736 and related guidance. Its features meet or exceed all requirements for pollution containment valves, firewater containment valves, and automatic shut‑off drainage systems.
How is ToggleBlok® activated?
ToggleBlok® offers multiple activation options:
- Remote (via control panel or SCADA system)
- Local manual override
- Integration with sensors (e.g., for pH, flow, temperature)
What maintenance does ToggleBlok® require?
Very little. ToggleBlok® is built from corrosion-resistant materials and designed for low‑maintenance operation, with scheduled checks once or twice per year—much less than older motorised penstock valves.
How many ToggleBlok® valves do I need for my site?
That depends on your drainage layout, risk zones, and storage capacity. Contact us for a site-specific assessment, and our technical team will help you map out a compliant and cost-effective solution.
Don’t Wait to be the Next Headline! Protect Your Site Now
The public and the Environment Agency are watching. With toxic chemicals like PFAS now a front-page issue, industrial and infrastructure operators must take proactive steps to protect the environment and their reputation.
ToggleBlok® is not just a containment valve. It’s your site’s first line of defence against environmental disasters and regulatory breaches.
Register Your Interest
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