Fighting PFAS Exposure Cases for Firefighters: Your Rights and Remedies

The Kann Law Group is at the forefront of championing the rights of firefighters exposed to dangerous chemicals through their essential work. Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) and firefighter turnout gear have been identified as significant sources of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS). These substances are linked to several types of cancer and other serious health issues. Our firm is committed to holding manufacturers accountable and securing the compensation our clients deserve.

The Dangers of PFAS in Firefighting Equipment

• Widespread Use of Toxic Chemicals: AFFF, a fire suppressant foam, and firefighter turnout gear contain PFOA and PFOS, part of the PFAS chemical group known for their durability and resistance to water, oil, and heat.
• Health Risks Identified: The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified PFOA as a "possible human carcinogen," with substantial epidemiological evidence linking heavy PFAS exposure to cancer.
• Exposure Through Equipment: Firefighters are exposed to PFAS not only through the use of AFFF but also via their turnout gear. The breakdown of this gear can release PFAS-containing dust, which is then inhaled.
• Long-Term Corporate Knowledge: Evidence suggests that companies like 3M and Dupont have known for decades about the toxic effects of PFAS on human health but continued to produce and sell these products.   

Cancers Linked to PFAS Exposure

Firefighters who have used AFFF or worn PFAS-containing turnout gear and have been diagnosed with the following cancers after August 1, 2021, may be entitled to compensation:

• Thyroid cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Colon cancer

The Risks of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) in Firefighting

Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) has been a staple in firefighting, especially in combating fuel fires that water alone cannot extinguish. While its effectiveness is undeniable, the presence of harmful Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in AFFF poses significant risks to firefighters and the environment:

• Critical Use in Firefighting: AFFF is specifically designed to suppress high-intensity fires, such as those involving flammable liquids. Its unique ability to form a barrier between the fire and the air drastically reduces the fire's oxygen supply, effectively extinguishing it.
• PFAS Content: The key components that give AFFF its fire-suppressing capabilities are PFAS chemicals, including PFOA and PFOS. These substances are known for their ability to repel oil and water, contributing to the foam's effectiveness.
• Exposure Concerns: Firefighters using AFFF are at risk of direct exposure to PFAS through inhalation of aerosolized foam particles and dermal contact during firefighting and cleanup operations. This exposure is concerning due to PFAS's association with various cancers and other health issues.
• Environmental Impact: Beyond immediate health concerns for firefighters, AFFF use poses a significant risk to the environment. PFAS chemicals are resistant to degradation, leading to long-term contamination of water sources, soil, and the broader ecosystem where AFFF is deployed.
• Regulatory and Health Scrutiny: The use of AFFF has come under increasing scrutiny as awareness of PFAS toxicity has grown. Regulatory bodies and health organizations are reevaluating the safety and environmental impact of AFFF, leading to calls for alternatives and stricter controls on its use.
• Litigation and Liability: The recognition of AFFF's risks has led to numerous lawsuits against manufacturers, with plaintiffs alleging that these companies were aware of the dangers posed by PFAS in AFFF but failed to warn users or seek safer alternatives.
• Moving Towards Safer Alternatives: In response to these concerns, the firefighting community, regulatory agencies, and manufacturers are exploring PFAS-free alternatives to AFFF that do not compromise on safety and effectiveness in fire suppression.