Firefighting foam is a suppressant used to put out fires by cooling them and coating the fuel to keep them from coming into contact with oxygen. A solution of foam concentrate and water is mixed with air to create firefighting foam, which spreads above the fuel and grips the surface.
There are mainly two types of firefighting foam:
- Class A foam: By using compressed air foam systems, it is used to extinguish fire resulting from things like wood, paper, brush, and vegetation (wildland).
- Class B foam: Fire from materials including oil, jet fuel, and gasoline are extinguished using this foam. Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is used in extinguishing aforementioned high-hazard flammable liquid fires.
This article provides insight into the high risks of using class B AFFF foam, its ban from industrial use, and government measures regarding the safety of those in contact.
Composition of AFFF
Fluorinated surfactants and foaming agents are typically combined to make AFFF. It contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) as active components.
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and/or perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) are two of the most prevalent forms of PFAS present in AFFF. The PFAS chemicals are human-made compounds that have been used as industrial products since the 1950s.
How Toxic is AFFF?
According to the EPA and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, most Americans have trace quantities of these PFAS in their blood. In small amounts, though, they don't seem dangerous to most people.
With an objective of understanding the risks associated, the National Institute of Health (NIH) awards over $10 million annually in grants to more than 40 universities and research centers studying PFAS.
The research, however, states that prolonged exposure to these chemicals can be hazardous. They accumulate in the body and may have significant health consequences.
Dangers of AFFF
As per lab studies, PFOS and PFOA are toxic to not only humans but wildlife too. Moreover, PFOA is categorized as a 2B carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).
Exposure to these chemicals may cause:
- Reproductive dysfunction
- Reduction in the response of the immune system
- High risk of cancer
- Liver damage
- Pregnancy-induced hypertension
Looking at the detrimental effects of PFOS and PFOA, MDLs have been filed on behalf of victims exposed to the chemicals. Several governments have banned the production and usage of PFAS without proper review and approval by EPA.
This litigation activity by filing AFFF foam lawsuit cases intends to increase awareness among affected individuals about their legal alternatives for claiming compensation after being exposed to firefighting foam.
Actions against AFFF foam
A statewide Class B AFFF pickup and disposal program was first introduced in Michigan to protect citizens and firemen while simultaneously eliminating AFFF from the environment. Michigan had gathered more than 60,000 gallons of it as of April 2023.
In October 2023, Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings filed lawsuits against 14 businesses. They were sued for producing firefighting foam that was purportedly contaminated with chemicals that seeped into the region's aquifers and soils.
According to TruLaw, AFFF lawsuits are being filed on behalf of people who were diagnosed with cancer or other health issues after being exposed to fireighting foam.
According to the most recent Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) files, there were 7,738 litigation awaiting consolidation, as of April 1st, 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How might people be exposed to PFAS from AFFF?
Exposure to PFAS from AFFF can occur through several pathways, including inhalation of contaminated air or dust, ingestion of contaminated water or food, and dermal contact with surfaces or materials containing PFAS residues.
Are there any regulations or guidelines for PFAS exposure from AFFF?
Regulations and guidelines regarding PFAS exposure from AFFF vary by jurisdiction. Some countries and regions have established limits or guidelines for PFAS levels in drinking water and environmental media, while others are still developing regulations.
What should I do if I suspect exposure to PFAS from AFFF?
If you suspect exposure to PFAS from AFFF and experience any adverse health effects, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and guidance. Additionally, you may consider contacting local environmental or health authorities for information and assistance.
How can individuals minimize their exposure to PFAS from AFFF?
By using alternative fire suppressants when possible. You should also follow safety protocols and use personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling AFFF. And do not forget to regularly monitor water sources for PFAS contamination, especially in areas that have used AFFF.
The purpose of AFFF foam litigation is to make AFFF producers and manufacturers accountable for any harm or losses incurred from exposure. Anyone who has been exposed to firefighting foam and was later diagnosed with cancer is eligible to file a lawsuit. Consult with an attorney if you or your acquaintance have been a victim of exposure to AFFF.