Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) is a type of firefighting foam that has been used since the 1960s to extinguish fires involving flammable liquids. Initially developed by the US Navy, it was commonly employed in military and civilian settings due to its effectiveness in quickly suppressing flames.
However, advancements in technology and scientific research have raised concerns about the negative impact of AFFF on human health and the environment. This has sparked lawsuits against manufacturers and users of AFFF, leading to a search for safer alternatives for firefighting.
In this article, we will discuss the history of AFFF, the illnesses associated with its use, and the current legal landscape surrounding this controversial substance. If you are a victim, AFFF lawsuit attorneys can help you navigate your options.
History of AFFF
AFFF was first developed in the 1960s by the US Navy to combat fires involving jet fuel on aircraft carriers. It quickly gained popularity in both military and civilian settings due to its ability to rapidly extinguish flames and prevent reignition.
In the 1970s, AFFF became widely used by municipal fire departments, industrial facilities, and airports. Its usage increased even further when commercial airlines introduced it as part of their safety measures.
However, it wasn’t until the late 1990s that concerns about AFFF’s impact on human health and the environment started to surface.
Illnesses Associated with AFFF
The primary concern surrounding AFFF lies in its composition. Many AFFF formulations contain per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of chemicals known for their water-repellent properties. While effective in firefighting, these PFAS have been linked to a range of serious health issues.
PFAS and Health Risks
Exposure to PFAS, whether through direct contact with AFFF or contaminated water and soil, has been associated with the following health problems:
- Cancer: Several types of cancer, including kidney, testicular, thyroid, liver, and pancreatic cancer, have been linked to PFAS exposure.
- Immune system dysfunction: PFAS can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections.
- Liver damage: Exposure to PFAS can lead to liver damage and impaired liver function.
- Reproductive issues: Studies have shown a correlation between PFAS exposure and reduced fertility, increased risk of miscarriage, and low birth weight.
- Developmental delays: Children exposed to PFAS may experience developmental delays and learning difficulties.
- Thyroid disease: PFAS has been linked to thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
It’s important to note that the severity of health effects often depends on the level and duration of exposure to PFAS. While research continues to expand our understanding of the link between AFFF and these illnesses, the evidence suggests a strong correlation.
Lawsuits Against AFFF Manufacturers and Users
As more information about the potential health risks of AFFF emerged, individuals affected by PFAS exposure began to take legal action against manufacturers and users of the foam. These lawsuits allege that these companies were aware of the dangers associated with PFAS but failed to warn consumers or take appropriate measures to prevent harm.
In 2017, a group of individuals from Hoosick Falls, a small town in New York, filed a class-action lawsuit against Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics and Honeywell International for contaminating their drinking water with PFAS. In 2018, a lawsuit was filed against the US Navy for exposing residents of Whidbey Island, Washington, to AFFF during training exercises.
In addition to these lawsuits, several states have also taken legal action against AFFF manufacturers. In December 2020, Minnesota filed a lawsuit against 3M and DuPont for contaminating the environment and endangering public health with PFAS.
The Search for Safer Alternatives
As the legal battle against AFFF continues, efforts are being made to find safer alternatives for firefighting. There has been a push towards using fluorine-free foams (FFF) that do not contain PFAS. While FFF may be less effective in suppressing certain types of fires, it offers a more environmentally friendly option.
Some fire departments have also adopted new practices, such as using mechanical means or specialized dry chemicals to extinguish fires involving flammable liquids.
However, many argue that more needs to be done at the legislative level to regulate the use of AFFF and prevent further exposure to PFAS. In 2020, the National Defense Authorization Act was passed, which prohibits the use of AFFF containing PFAS in military training exercises by 2024 and bans its use entirely by 2029.
Conclusion
AFFF has been widely used for decades as an effective firefighting tool. However, with increasing evidence of its harmful effects on human health and the environment, alternatives are being explored. As lawsuits against manufacturers and users continue, it is crucial to monitor developments in this area and take necessary precautions to minimize exposure to PFAS.
If you have been affected by AFFF or have concerns about potential exposure, contacting a qualified attorney can help you understand your legal options and seek compensation for damages. It is also important to advocate for stricter regulations and safer alternatives to prevent further harm caused by AFFF.
