Legally Reviewed
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy and clarity by Tort Defenders’ writers and staff and is as accurate as possible. This content should not be taken as legal advice from an attorney.
Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) was developed in the 1960s as a revolutionary fire suppression agent, specifically designed to combat flammable liquid fires. Its unique ability to create a cohesive film on the surface of flammable liquids made it an essential tool for firefighters, military personnel, and aviation industries. As AFFF became the standard for fire safety protocols, its use proliferated across large-scale firefighting operations, airfields, and military exercises, leading to routine exposure among firefighters and military members.
Unfortunately, the widespread adoption of AFFF has raised significant health concerns due to the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) within its formulation, which are now linked to various adverse health effects. As a result, those with extensive exposure, such as first responders and service members, are facing growing health risks, prompting a reevaluation of AFFF’s safety and long-term impacts on public health.
What Is AFFF?
Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is primarily composed of water, foaming agents, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which create a protective film over flammable liquids. Developed for enhanced fire suppression, AFFF effectively extinguishes flammable liquid fires by preventing oxygen from reaching the fuel. However, concerns about its safety began to surface in the late 1990s and early 2000s, as studies linked PFAS exposure to a range of health issues, including immune system effects, developmental problems, and increased cancer risks.
Currently, public perception is increasingly critical, with activists and health professionals advocating for stricter regulations and alternatives to AFFF. Growing awareness of the potential contamination of drinking water supplies and health risks associated with long-term exposure have intensified discussions around AFFF’s continued use. This has prompted efforts to phase out PFAS-containing foams in favor of safer firefighting practices.
Relevant Lawsuits
In recent years, numerous lawsuits have emerged surrounding AFFF exposure. These legal actions seek justice for individuals adversely affected, especially among military personnel and firefighters. One of the most significant pieces of litigation is Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) 2873. Thousands of lawsuits have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation in the U.S. District Court for South Carolina. This MDL includes personal injury claims from firefighters and military personnel, as well as municipal water systems alleging that exposure to PFAS in AFFF caused cancer and other illnesses. The MDL is significant due to its scope, involving nearly 10,000 cases as of 2024.
Participating in such lawsuits can provide access to financial compensation, raise awareness of health risks, and promote accountability for manufacturers responsible for toxic products.
Uses of AFFF
AFFF is widely utilized in various industries due to its effectiveness in suppressing flammable liquid fires. Below are some of its primary applications:
- Airport firefighting: AFFF is commonly used at airports to tackle fuel-related fires.
- Industrial fire protection: Essential for chemical plants and petroleum refineries where flammable liquids are present.
- Marine firefighting: Deployed on ships and in port facilities to combat oil spills and other liquid fires.
- Military operations: Used by armed forces for rapid-fire response in combat situations involving flammable substances.
- Training exercises: AFFF is utilized in controlled environments for firefighter training simulations.
AFFF’s multifaceted applications highlight its crucial role in fire safety across sectors. However, awareness of its associated health risks prompts a need for evaluation and potential alternatives to safeguard both human health and the environment.
Short-Term Side Effects
Exposure to AFFF can lead to a range of immediate health effects, particularly for individuals who come into direct contact with the foam during firefighting efforts or in contaminated environments. Understanding these short-term side effects is crucial for first responders and those working in areas where AFFF is used. Below are some common short-term effects associated with AFFF exposure:
- Skin irritation: Redness, itching, or rashes upon contact,
- Respiratory issues: Coughing, breathing difficulties, or throat irritation when inhaled,
- Gastrointestinal distress: Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea if ingested,
- Eye irritation: Burning, redness, or watering of the eyes following exposure,
- Headaches: Potential headaches due to chemical exposure or fumes,
- Fatigue: General feelings of tiredness or lethargy,
- Allergic reactions: Possible symptoms like swelling, hives, or other allergic responses in sensitive individuals.
Recognizing these short-term health effects is vital for ensuring prompt medical attention and minimizing further exposure.
Long-Term Side Effects
Long-term exposure to AFFF can lead to more serious health complications due to the persistence of certain chemicals in the body and environment. Here are some potential long-term side effects associated with AFFF exposure:
- Cancer risks: Increased likelihood of various cancers, particularly kidney, testicular, and liver cancers,
- Hormonal disruption: Chemicals in AFFF may interfere with endocrine systems, leading to reproductive and developmental issues,
- Immune system effects: Possible weakening of the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections,
- Liver damage: Potential long-term liver impairment or disease due to exposure to harmful substances,
- Cholesterol levels: Altered cholesterol levels, which can increase cardiovascular risks,
- Thyroid dysfunction: Possible disruption of thyroid function, impacting metabolism and overall health.
The long-term health effects of AFFF exposure underscore the need for stringent safety measures and ongoing research to protect individuals and communities.
Studies About Health Effects
Several major studies have highlighted the health effects associated with AFFF exposure, particularly those conducted by the EPA and the CDC. For instance, the CDC conducted a study showing that most Americans have been exposed to PFAS and have traces of it in their blood.
These studies have significantly influenced public perception, raising awareness about the dangers of AFFF and increasing advocacy for more robust regulations. As a result, many states have enacted stricter laws governing the use of PFAS in firefighting foams and promoted safer alternatives. The collective push for policy change reflects a growing concern for both individual health and environmental sustainability.
Response From the Firefighting Community
The discovery of health impacts associated with AFFF exposure has profoundly affected firefighters, military personnel, and other exposed individuals. Recognizing the increased risks of cancers and other chronic health issues, these communities have rallied for better protection and more transparency regarding AFFF’s dangers. Firefighters and veterans have begun to advocate for health screenings and financial support for those affected by AFFF-related illnesses.
Organizations within these communities are also pushing for the adoption of safer alternatives to PFAS-based foams, emphasizing the need for regulatory reforms and improved training on risk management. This heightened awareness has fostered solidarity among affected individuals, leading to a collective pursuit of justice and accountability from manufacturers and regulatory bodies. As a result, there is a growing movement to ensure that current and future generations of firefighters and military personnel are shielded from the hazardous effects of AFFF.