AFFF Exposure

Legal Representation for Victims of PFOA/PFOS Exposure

AFFF exposure is a significant risk for both current and former firefighters, as well as individuals affected by groundwater contamination, who are suffering serious medical conditions from exposure to aqueous firefighting foams (AFFF) containing the toxic chemicals perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and/or perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which are classified as per- and polyfluoroalkyls (PFAs). 

These chemicals are often used in AFFF, and have been linked to multiple illnesses and health issues, including cancer. Even if you have never been in direct contact with AFFF or a similar firefighting foam, these dangerous chemicals can seep into a nearby water supply, exposing innocent victims to serious health risks from the synthetic chemicals.

Health Risks Associated With Exposure to AFFFs

The PFAS chemicals in AFFF cause several severe illnesses and health risks, as well as environmental problems. PFAS are water-soluble and bio-accumulative, which means that these chemicals can easily be dispersed through air and water – and accumulate in the human body. Since AFFF is used to combat several types of fires, these toxins may contaminate the surrounding soil, air, and groundwater after fire emergencies and firefighting training exercises.

At The Ferraro Law Firm, we are actively taking on AFFF exposure cases and representing clients from a wide range of backgrounds, including military veterans, military firefighters, civilian firefighters, and private citizens. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with or suffered from any of the following conditions, contact an experienced attorney immediately. The team at The Ferraro Law Firm can begin assessing your case right away!

Indirect AFFF Toxic Exposure from Contaminated Groundwater

PFOA and PFOS have been found in contaminated water systems that sustain runoff of AFFFs used at military bases, fire training facilities, and commercial airports. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned the use of these chemicals in 3M’s AFFF products back in 2002.

In the last several years, the EPA has lowered the acceptable PFOA/PFOS levels to 70 ppt, although some states have lowered it to 20 or 40 ppt.

Holding Chemical Manufacturers Accountable for AFFF Exposure Injuries

Chemical-based fire-fighting foam was created, sold, and marketed by the largest chemical manufacturers in the world, such as 3M – and these products have now been extensively used by U.S. military personnel and firefighters for over 50 years. Despite growing evidence that PFAS chemicals such as PFOA and PFOS could cause cancer, thyroid disease, and endocrine disruption, these major chemical manufacturers ignored the evidence and continued to put people’s lives at risk.

The Environmental Protection Agency has classified PFAS as “emerging contaminants” and is taking action to investigate and research the effects of these chemicals on the environment. As more people experience adverse health effects due to chemical manufacturer negligence, we must take action to hold these companies accountable for failing to consider the public good.

Most Common Places Where AFFFs Are Used

• Oil rigs and refineries
• Military installations
• Bulk fuel storage centers
• Offshore oil platforms
• Chemical plants
• Aviation facilities
• Civilian fire departments

Frequently Asked Questions: AFFF Exposure