Firefighting Foam, also known as AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam), has been used for decades to extinguish fires involving flammable liquids and gases. However, recent studies have shown that the chemicals in AFFF can cause adverse health effects. According to Public Health Watch, AFFF continues to be in use in the US despite calls for a ban.
This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the Firefighting Foam Lawsuit, including the adverse effects of AFFF exposure, the parties involved in the lawsuit, and the legal implications of the case.
What Is AFFF?
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Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) is a type of firefighting foam commonly used to extinguish fires involving flammable liquids and gases. It works by creating a foam blanket that seals the fuel’s surface, preventing oxygen from reaching it and extinguishing the fire. AFFF effectively combats fires involving jet fuel, gasoline, and other petroleum-based products.
AFFF contains a mixture of synthetic chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) also found these harmful chemicals in firefighter gear and equipment in May 2023.
These chemicals have been linked to various health problems, including cancer, liver damage, and developmental issues. While AFFF has been a crucial tool in firefighting for decades, its use has led to contamination of water sources and soil, raising concerns about the environmental impact of the foam.
Why Was AFFF Introduced in Firefighting?
Before the development of AFFF, firefighters relied on water and other conventional firefighting agents to combat these types of fires. However, water-based agents are ineffective in extinguishing fires involving flammable liquids and gases. They do not form a barrier preventing the fuel from reigniting. AFFF was developed in the 1960s as a way to address this issue.
By creating a foam blanket that seals the fuel’s surface, AFFF prevents oxygen from reaching the fire, extinguishing it more effectively than water-based agents. It made AFFF a valuable tool in fighting fires involving jet fuel, gasoline, and other petroleum-based products. Despite its effectiveness, the adverse impact of AFFF on human health and the environment has led to growing concerns.
How Does AFFF Affect the Environment?
AFFF can significantly impact the environment due to the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are persistent and do not break down easily. These chemicals have been found to accumulate in soil and water sources, posing a risk to wildlife and human health.
The use of AFFF during firefighting operations can release PFAS into the environment, contaminating soil and water sources. The accumulation of PFAS in the environment has been linked to various adverse effects, including developmental issues, liver damage, and cancer. It also leads to concerns about the long-term impact of the foam on the environment and public health.
As a result, many communities are taking action to limit the use of AFFF and to address the environmental impact of PFAS contamination.
What are Some of the Health Risks Associated With Firefighting Foam?
Firefighting foam, particularly Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), contains synthetic chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have been linked to a range of health risks. PFAS are persistent chemicals that do not break down easily and can accumulate in the environment, leading to long-term exposure.
Exposure to PFAS through firefighting foam can result in various health problems, including liver damage, developmental issues, and cancer. In addition to the adverse effects of PFAS, firefighters and other first responders exposed to firefighting foam may also experience respiratory problems due to inhalation of the foam.
Foam exposure can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat and can lead to respiratory distress. Firefighters may also be exposed to other toxic chemicals during firefighting operations, further increasing their risk of health problems. As a result, many communities are taking steps to limit the use of AFFF and other firefighting foams to protect the health of firefighters and the public.
The adverse effects of Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) exposure have led to a growing number of lawsuits against manufacturers and users of the foam. Plaintiffs in these lawsuits claim that they have been exposed to harmful chemicals present in AFFF and have suffered health problems as a result.
The lawsuits allege that manufacturers and users of AFFF were aware of the potential health risks associated with the foam but failed to adequately warn consumers or take appropriate steps to limit exposure. According to the latest AFFF lawsuit update, around 4,000 lawsuits are active in the US District Court for the District of South Carolina.
According to TorHoerman Law, plaintiffs are seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages related to their AFFF exposure. The outcome of these lawsuits could have significant implications for the use of AFFF in firefighting operations and the regulation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in consumer products.
3M, one of the major manufacturers, has already announced that it will stop making per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The company also assured that it will continue working to discontinue the use of PFAS across its product portfolio.
Conclusion
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) has been a valuable tool in firefighting for decades, but its use has been associated with significant health risks and environmental concerns. As a result, many communities are taking steps to limit the use of AFFF and to address the environmental impact of PFAS contamination.
It is essential to continue to raise awareness about the potential health risks associated with firefighting foam and to explore alternative firefighting agents that are less harmful to human health and the environment.