Firefighters at Risk: The Dangers of AFFF Chemicals
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Firefighters face numerous dangers in their line of duty, from battling raging fires to rescuing individuals from perilous situations. A new, equally dangerous, but less obvious risk is exposure to aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF). This substance, used extensively for its effectiveness in suppressing fuel fires, contains per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
As the understanding of PFAS exposure grows, firefighters across the United States are increasingly concerned about the long-term health implications. This article will examine the effects of PFAS exposure on health and the current measures being taken to mitigate it.
The Hidden Dangers of PFAS
The presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFAS) in AFFF is the main cause of concern. As mentioned in an NCBI study, AFFF contains 1–5% by weight of PFAS. These substances, which are sometimes called "forever chemicals," are not easily broken down. This indicates that they endure both in the natural world and within the human body.
Research has connected exposure to polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to a number of health concerns, including cancer, liver damage, immune system malfunction, and developmental difficulties in children.
As mentioned in an article by Veterans of Foreign Wars, a study found positive links between AFFF and testicular cancer. A total of two groups of military firefighters participated in the study. One group had developed testicular cancer, and the second group had cancer-free personnel. It was found that that group that had developed cancer had higher levels of PFAS in their blood.
According to TorHoerman Law, firefighters are also at risk of developing other types of cancers, such as:
Kidney cancer
Breast cancer
Mesothelioma
Colorectal cancer
Lymphoma
Neuroendocrine tumors
Prostate cancer
Can firefighters file an AFFF lawsuit for the exposure?
The thing is that firefighters were not informed about the potential health risks of using PFAS-based AFFF. This is also one of the reasons why many are filing a lawsuit against manufacturers who kept the information hidden.
You may also bring an AFFF lawsuit if the exposure caused you to get cancer. The number of these cases increased to a significant extent; therefore, they are now consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL). As of August 2024, there are around 9,525 lawsuits pending in this MDL being heard in the District of South Carolina.
Credit: Andrew Gaines
Exposure Routes for Firefighters
Firefighters can come into contact with PFAS in several ways. When it comes to combating fires, using AFFF is the most straightforward method. When AFFF is deployed, firefighters are often engulfed in a mist or foam that can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin.
Therefore, they are also said to be at an increased risk of contracting melanoma or other skin cancer. Data also shows that exposed individuals can be diagnosed with melanoma at younger ages.
Additionally, PFAS can contaminate gear, vehicles, and fire stations. This can lead to prolonged exposure and more severe consequences. Contaminated water sources are another significant risk, as PFAS can leach into groundwater and drinking supplies near areas where AFFF has been used.
Can firefighters be exposed to PFAS through their gear?
Indeed, to enhance its functionality and safety, PFAS chemicals have been put to their turnout gear. However, when the gear breaks or gets old, the hazardous chemicals can enter their body through the skin. Therefore, some governments are also going to the extent of banning the use of this type of gear.
One example is that of Massachusetts, where a new bill has been passed. According to the bill, the use of PFAS in firefighting personal protective equipment (PPE) will be banned from January 1, 2027. The government has given time till the start of 2027 for manufacturers, the military, and the fire department to find alternatives.
Regulatory and Legislative Responses
Advocacy organizations and firefighter unions are essential in tackling the problem of AFFF exposure. These organizations are advocating for stronger regulations, better protective measures, and increased funding for health monitoring and research.
They are also pushing for the development and adoption of safer firefighting foams that do not contain PFAS. Through their efforts, awareness of the health risks associated with AFFF is growing, and more firefighters are taking steps to protect themselves.
Is AFFF Banned in the US?
There is no federal-level ban on the use of AFFF fire extinguishers. However, several states have taken actions to restrict or completely ban the use of these products. Alaska, for one, has passed a law to ban its use from January 1, 2025. It was passed as a part of Senate Bill 67. Since the bill was passed almost unanimously, it went into effect even with the Governor's signature.
Similarly, states like California and Illinois have also passed laws to ban the manufacturing, sale, use, and disposal of PFAS-containing AFFF. On the other hand, some states, like Colorado, have banned its use for training and testing purposes. However, it is allowed to be used to contain infernos.
The health hazards associated with AFFF exposure represent a significant challenge for firefighters in the United States. The necessity of addressing this issue through legislation, lobbying, and study is growing along with our awareness of the hazards associated with PFAS.
Every day, firefighters risk their lives to save the lives of others. It is essential that society take the required actions to shield children from the threats they encounter that are disguised. Together, we can make sure that these courageous people have a safer and better future.