Why Is Aqueous Film-Forming Foam or AFFF Harmful?

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) is a type of foam that has been widely used in firefighting and emergency response operations to extinguish fires involving flammable liquids, such as gasoline and jet fuel. 

However, recent studies have raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with exposure to AFFF, particularly regarding certain chemicals known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). 

These chemicals have been linked to an increased risk of cancer, thyroid problems, immune system dysfunction, reproductive problems, and liver and kidney damage. This article will examine the latest research on the health effects of AFFF exposure, highlighting the populations most at risk, and discussing the protective measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of harm.

Health Problems Caused by Aqueous Film-Forming Foam

There is evidence that exposure to AFFF can cause health problems, including the ones mentioned below. 

If you believe the health problems mentioned below are linked to your or a loved one’s exposure to AFFF, then you may consider consulting reliable online resources on the AFFF Lawsuit. You may be eligible for filing a lawsuit against the manufacturers of AFFF, which include Du Pont, Chemours, 3M, and other companies. 

1. Cancer

Some of the chemicals found in AFFF, such as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS, have been linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as testicular cancer, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, tumors of the neuroendocrine system, prostrate cancer liver cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, mesothelioma.

In 2022, there were over 1.9 million cancer cases diagnosed in the United States, with around 609,360 cancer deaths, according to the American Cancer Society. It is thus important we raise awareness against all possible carcinogens like PFAs to prevent this deadly disease from affecting us.

2. Thyroid Problems

Studies have suggested that exposure to PFAS can disrupt the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, which can lead to a variety of symptoms, including weight gain, fatigue, and depression.

3. Immune System Problems

Exposure to PFAS has been linked to changes in the immune system that can make it more difficult for the body to fight off infections and diseases.

4. Reproductive Problems

Some studies have suggested that exposure to PFAS may lead to decreased fertility, birth defects, and developmental delays in children.

5. Liver and Kidney Damage

 Long-term exposure to PFAS may cause liver and kidney damage.

Individuals at a Higher Risk of Exposure to AFFF

Individuals who are at a higher risk of being exposed to Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) at work include the following.

1. Firefighters

 Firefighters are at a high risk of exposure to AFFF during training and when responding to fires involving flammable liquids. 

There are more than 1,063,900 firefighters in the USA today, as per the National Fire Department registry, including volunteers. Thus, over 1 million lives are potentially at risk today due to exposure to AFFF.

2. Airport Workers

Airport workers, such as aircraft mechanics and ground crew, may be exposed to AFFF during aircraft fire-fighting training and emergency response.

3. Military Personnel

 Service members, including those in the Air Force and Navy, may be exposed to AFFF during fire-fighting training and emergency response on bases and ships.

4. Industrial Workers

Workers at facilities that handle or store flammable liquids, such as oil refineries, chemical plants, and storage terminals, may be exposed to AFFF during emergency response.

5. Civil Engineers

Civil engineers and construction workers who are involved in the construction, maintenance, and cleaning of fire-fighting systems, such as fire hydrants and fire extinguishers, may be exposed to AFFF.

Measures to Protect Yourself Against AFFF Exposure

There are several ways to avoid exposure to Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) at work.

• Firefighters, airport workers, and other individuals who may come into contact with AFFF should wear appropriate PPE, such as gloves, face shields, and protective clothing, to reduce the risk of skin and eye irritation.

• After responding to an incident involving AFFF, it is important to properly decontaminate all equipment and clothing to reduce the risk of exposure.

• Avoiding unnecessary exposure to AFFF, such as participating in training exercises that do not involve AFFF.

• Where possible, consider using less toxic alternatives to AFFF in firefighting and training exercises. Few states including Washington have banned AFFF in fire-fighting concentrates, except for a few emergency situations. This is in line with a July 2018 legislation that restricted the usage of AFFF.

• Regularly monitoring exposure to AFFF, such as through blood tests, can help identify potential health problems early and prevent further exposure.

• Employers should also establish procedures for the safe handling and disposal of AFFF, and provide appropriate training to their employees on the hazards of AFFF and how to protect themselves.

In conclusion, Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) is an important tool in the fight against fires involving flammable liquids. Firefighters, airport workers, military personnel, industrial workers, and civil engineers are among the populations most at risk of exposure to AFFF. 

To reduce the risk of harm, individuals who may come into contact with AFFF should wear appropriate personal protective equipment and follow proper decontamination procedures. It’s important to strike a balance between the use of AFFF and the protection of human health by taking appropriate measures.

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