Revered for their bravery and selflessness, firefighters encounter occupational risks beyond battling fires. Research indicates that these courageous individuals have heightened levels of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in their blood serum. Eventually, it can have severe health implications.
PFAS are a group of artificial chemicals that endure in the environment and accumulate in the human body over time. Cancer is among the significant health risks associated with PFAS exposure.
Recently, aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) utilization in firefighting has come under scrutiny as a significant source of PFAS exposure. The connection between PFAS in AFFF and cancer has led to a surge in AFFF lawsuits because of developing life-threatening illnesses. However, the threats posed by PFAS are not limited to AFFF.
In this blog post, we will explore the protective gear worn by firefighters. It will further emphasize how it intended to shield them from fire and heat but led to toxic exposure.
PFAS Are Everywhere for Firefighters
PFAS, infamously dubbed “forever chemicals,” encompasses over 14,700 artificial compounds recognized for their exceptional stability and resistance to decomposition. Since the 1950s, these substances have been widely utilized for their capacity to endure high temperatures, repel water, and minimize friction.
Nevertheless, this resilience renders PFAS dangerous, as they decompose slowly in the environment and the human body. Firefighters exposed to these chemicals through AFFF are prone to risks of testicular cancers, liver damage, and immune system complications.
The high frequency of illnesses linked to PFAS has led many firefighters to sue. They claim manufacturers hid the dangers of PFAS for years. These legal actions seek to hold companies responsible for their involvement in this escalating health emergency.
Government Efforts to Mitigate PFAS
The government is addressing the risks associated with PFAS as awareness of its dangers grows. Both federal and state levels are involved in efforts to eliminate the use of AFFF and remediate existing PFAS contamination. The U.S. military has moved away from AFFF and is approaching to stop using PFAS between October 2024 and 2026.
In addition to phasing out AFFF, governments are concentrating on the cleanup of PFAS contamination in the environment. West Virginia’s House Bill 3189 recognizes the state’s PFAS contamination issue. As a result, it designates $18.9 million in federal funding over two years for PFAS detection and environmental remediation. Efforts to tackle PFAS are gaining traction with legislative initiatives to support the research and development of safer, PFAS-free firefighting.
The Perils of PFAS in Firefighters’ Protective Gear
The discontinuation of AFFF is essential in reducing PFAS exposure, but it doesn’t provide complete protection for firefighters. Another less obvious but equally harmful source of PFAS exposure is their protective gear. Firefighters use turnout gear that is heat-resistant, water-repellent, and durable, often achieved by treating the gear with PFAS.
Recent research, such as a study by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), has made a discovery. They found PFAS in all layers of firefighting gear, from the outer shell to moisture barriers. As these layers degrade over time, PFAS can move closer to the skin, increasing the risk of dermal exposure.
When combined with exposure to AFFF, firefighting becomes one of the most hazardous professions concerning PFAS-related health risks. The heightened PFAS levels in firefighters are likely a result of combined exposure from AFFF and their protective gear. Unfortunately, finding alternatives to PFAS in turnout gear has proven challenging. The availability of PFAS-free options is still limited.
The Push for Safer Firefighting Equipment
Recognizing the necessity for safer options, the PFAS Alternatives Act was proposed to allocate funds. This is meant to research and develop firefighting gear free from PFAS.
The objective is to design advanced equipment that eliminates PFAS and provides improved protection against other harmful exposures. Highlighted concerns are linked with combustion byproducts and particulate matter. The legislation also advocates for the training and education of firefighters. They must understand how to reduce their exposure risk and safely use new equipment.
According to Trulaw, our firefighters have fought too long against AFFF manufacturers, with lawsuits consolidated into an MDL in early 2023. Their fight is still on in court. Legislative efforts are now essential because addressing PFAS exposure in firefighting requires more than banning AFFF. Firefighters require comprehensive protection from all forms of PFAS exposure, including their gear.
FAQs
1. What is the AFFF lawsuit about?
The AFFF lawsuit involves firefighters suing manufacturers for not disclosing the cancer risks associated with PFAS in firefighting foam. These legal actions seek compensation for health issues caused by prolonged PFAS exposure during firefighting operations. As the lawsuit unfolds, affected parties are also pushing for the manufacturers to fund medical monitoring.
2. What actions is the government taking to address PFAS contamination?
Governments are phasing out PFAS-containing products like AFFF and prioritizing environmental cleanup endeavors. Several states have enforced restrictions, and federal funding is allocated for researching safer options and remediating contaminated sites. Also, the EPA has proposed rules to restrict the use and discharge of PFAS through various channels.
3. Are there any safe substitutes for PFAS-containing firefighting foam?
Although options are limited, safer alternatives to PFAS-containing AFFF are being developed. Fluorine-free foams are considered a safe substitute. They work differently from PFAS-containing foams. Instead of creating a film, they produce a foam blanket that acts as a physical barrier to suppress the fire.
The risks to health from PFAS exposure are evident, and firefighters are particularly impacted. Moreover, the ongoing lawsuits, government initiatives, and new research demonstrate the continual and pressing nature of the struggle against toxic exposure. Yet, for the courageous individuals who endanger their lives during fire emergencies, the battle against PFAS exposure is urgent.