Navy AFFF Exposure Types | AFFF Lawsuit for Navy Service Members

How Have Navy Personnel Been Exposed to Firefighting Foam?

The U.S. Navy has relied on Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) for decades to combat fires involving jet fuel and other flammable liquids aboard ships, airfields, and bases.

Developed in the 1960s with heavy involvement from 3M, AFFF was adopted across all military branches for its effectiveness in quickly extinguishing high-intensity fires.

Navy aircraft carriers, air stations, and shipyards used AFFF extensively for both emergency fire suppression and routine training exercises, leading to widespread exposure.

Navy firefighters and other personnel frequently handled the foam, often without protective gear or knowledge of its dangers.

The foam contains toxic PFAS chemicals, which accumulate in the body and environment, increasing long-term health risks.

Despite evidence of harm, AFFF continued to be a staple of fire safety protocols across naval operations for decades.

This prolonged exposure has left thousands of Navy service members at risk of serious illnesses linked to PFAS contamination.

Common Sources of Navy AFFF Exposure:

• Firefighting operations involving jet fuel and aircraft fires
• Regular training exercises on naval bases and ships
• Fire suppression systems on Navy aircraft carriers and submarines
• Direct handling of AFFF by Navy firefighters and emergency response teams
• Contaminated drinking water at naval installations due to toxic PFAS chemicals
• Accidental spills and leaks during storage, transport, and disposal

Firefighting Operations Involving Jet Fuel and Aircraft Fires

AFFF was a critical tool for Navy firefighters responding to aircraft fires and emergencies involving jet fuel aboard ships and airfields.

The foam creates a rapid, smothering barrier that suppressed flames and prevented re-ignition, making it essential for fire safety in high-risk environments.

During these operations, Navy personnel were routinely exposed to toxic PFAS chemicals through direct skin contact, inhalation, and contaminated runoff.

Many service members worked in enclosed spaces, such as hangars and below-deck compartments, where AFFF exposure was more concentrated.

Over years of repeated use, this exposure significantly increased the risk of developing serious health conditions linked to PFAS contamination.

Training Exercises

​For decades, the U.S. Navy incorporated Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) into regular training exercises to prepare personnel for real-life firefighting scenarios involving jet fuel and other flammable liquids.

These exercises, conducted on naval bases and ships, often involved the extensive use of AFFF to simulate high-intensity fires, providing sailors and firefighters with hands-on experience in fire suppression techniques.

However, such routine drills led to repeated exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals found in AFFF, as participants frequently came into direct contact with the foam or inhaled its fumes during training.

The inhalation of AFFF foam particulates can also occur when it is sprayed to extinguish fires, leading to the potential inhalation of aerosolized foam particles.

Over time, this consistent exposure raised significant health concerns, as PFAS compounds are known to accumulate in the body and have been linked to various cancers and other serious illnesses.

Navy Aircraft Carriers and Submarines

​Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) has been integral to the fire suppression systems on U.S. Navy aircraft carriers and submarines for decades, effectively combating flammable liquid fires.

These systems utilize AFFF to rapidly extinguish fires involving jet fuel and other flammable substances, ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment.

On aircraft carriers, AFFF is distributed through extensive networks of pipes and sprinkler systems, protecting flight decks, hangar bays, and fuel storage areas.

Similarly, submarines are equipped with AFFF systems to address potential fires in confined spaces, where rapid suppression is critical.

Direct Handling by Navy Firefighters and Emergency Response Teams

Navy firefighters and emergency response teams regularly handled AFFF during fire suppression efforts, training exercises, and equipment maintenance, leading to frequent and prolonged exposure.

These personnel often worked directly with the foam, applying it to fires involving jet fuel and flammable liquids without full awareness of its toxic forever chemicals.

Without adequate protective measures, many absorbed PFAS through skin contact, inhalation of aerosolized foam, and ingestion via contaminated water sources.

Over time, this exposure significantly increased the risk of adverse health effects, including cancers, thyroid disease, and immune system disorders.

PFAS Contamination at Military Bases

For decades, AFFF use at naval installations led to PFAS contamination of groundwater, exposing service members and their families to harmful chemicals through drinking water.

Military bases relied on AFFF for fire suppression and training exercises, allowing toxic runoff to seep into local water supplies.

Testing at multiple Navy bases, including those listed as EPA Superfund sites, has revealed dangerously high levels of PFAS in water sources relied upon by military personnel.

Despite mounting evidence of health risks, the military continued using AFFF firefighting foam for years before taking steps to limit its environmental impact.

Over 700 military bases across the United States have known or suspected PFAS contamination in drinking water supplies.

Accidental Spills of PFAS Containing Firefighting Foam

​Accidental spills and leaks of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) during storage, transport, and disposal have led to significant environmental contamination at various military installations.

For instance, in August 2024, a malfunctioning fire suppression system at Brunswick Executive Airport in Maine discharged approximately 1,450 gallons of AFFF concentrate mixed with 50,000 gallons of water, releasing toxic PFAS chemicals into the environment.

Similarly, between July 9 and July 15, 2024, Cannon Air Force Base in New Mexico reported a spill of about 7,000 gallons of PFAS-contaminated water into a compromised retention pond, raising concerns about groundwater contamination.

The environmental and health implications of such spills have prompted increased regulatory scrutiny and calls for improved handling practices of PFAS-containing substances.​

An Overview of the AFFF Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawsuits

The AFFF Firefighting Foam MDL consolidates thousands of lawsuits filed by military personnel, firefighters, and civilians who developed cancer after exposure to PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam.

Plaintiffs allege that manufacturers, including 3M, DuPont, Tyco Fire Products, and others, knowingly sold AFFF Firefighting Foam despite evidence linking its PFAS ingredients to severe health risks.

AFFF Lawsuits seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages caused by toxic exposure.

Legal claims in the AFFF Firefighting Foam cases focus on product liability, failure to warn, and negligence, arguing that manufacturers concealed the dangers of PFAS contamination.

As part of this toxic tort litigation, cases have been centralized in federal court, allowing for streamlined proceedings and coordinated discovery.

Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawyers continue to file new claims on behalf of individuals diagnosed with kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, and other PFAS-related illnesses.

Affected individuals still have the opportunity to pursue legal action and hold manufacturers accountable for the long-term harm caused by AFFF exposure.

If you or a loved one were exposed to firefighting foam during service in the Navy and subsequently developed cancer or other serious health issues, you may be eligible to file an AFFF Lawsuit and seek compensation.

Contact the AFFF Lawyers at TorHoerman Law for a free consultation.

You can also use the chat feature on this page to find out if you qualify for a Navy Firefighting Foam Lawsuit instantly.

AFFF Lawsuit Settlement Amount Projections

​While no settlements have been reached yet in the AFFF litigation, firefighting foam attorneys estimate that individual AFFF Lawsuit settlement amounts may range between $40,000 and $300,000 or more, depending on the strength of each case and specific factors.

These figures are based on similar previous litigations, the nature of injuries sustained, and estimated costs of damages.

However, these projections are general estimations and are not guaranteed.

Every legal case is unique, with its own specific circumstances that can significantly affect the outcome.

To obtain a more accurate understanding of the potential value of your case, it is best to consult directly with a qualified attorney who can provide personalized guidance.

What AFFF Manufacturers are Named in the Firefighting Foam Lawsuit?

​Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) manufacturers are facing numerous lawsuits alleging that their products, containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), have led to environmental contamination and health risks.

AFFF Lawsuits involve claims from individuals, municipalities, and states, asserting that the companies were aware of the potential hazards associated with PFAS but failed to adequately warn users or prevent contamination.

AFFF Lawsuits encompass a range of allegations, including personal injury, property damage, and violations of environmental regulations.​

Companies named in the AFFF Lawsuits include:

• 3M​
• DuPont​
• Chemours
• Tyco Fire Products​
• Chemguard
• Corteva Inc.​
• BASF Corp.​
• Arkema Inc.​
• Dynax Corp.​
• Kidde-Fenwal​
• Buckeye Fire Equipment Company
• and others​

These companies are accused of manufacturing and distributing AFFF products containing PFAS chemicals, which are persistent in the environment and have been linked to various health issues.

AFFF Lawsuits aim to hold these manufacturers accountable for the alleged contamination and associated health risks.​

What is the AFFF Firefighting Foam MDL?

The AFFF litigation consists of thousands of personal injury claims.

To handle the number of cases, AFFF lawsuits were consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL).

The AFFF firefighting foam MDL was filed in the U.S. District Court: District of South Carolina as MDL 2873.

As the months go by, more victims are joining the AFFF litigation.

If you’ve developed cancer or any illness linked to AFFF firefighting foam, you have a right to hold negligent AFFF manufacturers responsible.

Find out now if you qualify for the AFFF firefighting foam lawsuits.

Contact our AFFF firefighting foam attorneys at TorHoerman Law for a free case evaluation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to find out if you are eligible to file an AFFF lawsuit.

AFFF Firefighting Foam: An Overview

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF firefighting foam) is a synthetic fire suppressant designed to quickly extinguish fires involving jet fuel, gasoline, and other flammable liquids.

It consists of water, solvents, and surfactants, but its key ingredient is per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of man-made chemicals that enhance its fire-resistant properties.

AFFF is typically a white, foamy liquid that expands when sprayed, creating a film that smothers fires and prevents re-ignition.

AFFF was first developed in the 1960s by 3M and the U.S. Navy in collaboration with the Naval Research Laboratory to improve fire suppression for aviation and fuel-based fires.

Since then, it has been manufactured by companies like 3M, DuPont, Chemours, and Tyco Fire Products, among others, and has been widely distributed across military bases, airports, and industrial sites.

The U.S. military, particularly the Navy, has relied on AFFF for decades in aircraft hangars, ship decks, and fuel storage areas due to its effectiveness in high-risk environments.

However, prolonged AFFF firefighting foam exposure has raised serious health and environmental concerns.

PFAS chemicals do not break down naturally, leading to long-term contamination of groundwater, soil, and even human bloodstreams.

Research has linked AFFF exposure to potential health risks such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, and immune system dysfunction.

As military personnel and firefighters continue to develop serious illnesses, legal action against AFFF manufacturers seeks to hold them accountable for failing to disclose the dangers of PFAS-laden firefighting foam.

Health Problems Linked to AFFF Exposure

Exposure to firefighting foam has been linked to a number of health problems.

Countless individuals exposed to firefighting foam have developed cancer or other serious health issues.

Cancers that have been associated with exposure to firefighting foam include:

• Bladder cancer
• Breast cancer
• Colon cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Liver cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Rectal cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Thyroid cancer

Other health problems associated with exposure to AFFF include:

• Increased cholesterol levels
• Changes in liver enzymes
• Small decreases in infant birth weights
• Decreased vaccine response in children
• Increased risk of high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia in pregnant women

Research on AFFF Exposure and Health Conditions

Several research studies conducted on both AFFF firefighting foam and PFAS chemicals have shown that these chemicals put individuals at risk for a variety of health issues.

Studies on the links between AFFF exposure and health problems include the following:

• A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found a statistically significant association between PFOA exposure and an increased risk of kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and ulcerative colitis.
• Another study published in the International Journal of Cancer found a positive association between PFOS exposure and breast cancer.
• The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified PFOA as a possible carcinogen, and PFOS as possibly carcinogenic to humans.
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a health advisory for PFOA and PFOS, stating that long-term exposure to these chemicals above certain levels could be harmful to human health.
• Researchers at the National Research Centre for Environmental Toxicology (Australia) found that firefighters were more likely to have fluorinated surfactants in their bloodstream.
• Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley studied the carcinogenic effects of PFAS on women firefighters and office workers, finding that firefighters who reported using firefighting foam in the past year had higher levels of several PFAS in their bodies compared to those who did not.

Do You Qualify for the Navy AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit?

Institutions such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Environmental Working Group (EWG), National Firefighter Registry (NFR), and others have found that exposure to PFAS containing firefighting foam can increase the risk for certain health problems.

AFFF foam exposure is highly serious, and lawyers across the country are filing AFFF lawsuits on behalf of those who have suffered.

If you or a loved one were exposed to AFFF and subsequently developed cancer or other health conditions, you may be eligible to file a firefighting foam cancer lawsuit.

Reach out to our experienced firefighting foam lawyers today for a free consultation.

Use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify to file an AFFF foam cancer lawsuit instantly.

Firefighting foam attorneys can help clients throughout the legal process, completing crucial steps such as gathering evidence and assessing damages.

Gathering Evidence for AFFF Lawsuits

Gathering solid and comprehensive evidence is essential for personal injury claims, especially for litigation regarding exposure to PFAS-containing firefighting foam.

Lawyers can help their clients gather and retain evidence for their case.

Potential evidence included in AFFF firefighting foam lawsuits may include:

• Medical records
• Cancer diagnosis information
• Employment records
• Military service records
• History of AFFF exposure
• Personal and witness testimony
• Any other information validating exposure to firefighting foam

Assessing Damages in an AFFF Lawsuit

Damages refer to the total losses incurred as a result of exposure to AFFF firefighting foam.

Damages can be both economic and non-economic, and an experienced lawyer can help you determine and calculate damages.

Potential damages in AFFF firefighting foam lawsuits may include:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering, emotional distress
• Lost earning ability
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent disability
• Future medical expenses and therapy costs
• Other compensatory and punitive damages
• Loss of consortium

Our AFFF Lawyers are Prepared to Help You

TorHoerman Law is a nationally recognized personal injury law firm dedicated to representing individuals affected by Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) exposure.

Our team combines extensive experience with a commitment to seeking justice for our clients.

Our Founder: Tor Hoerman

Tor Hoerman, the founder of our law firm, has been at the forefront of mass tort litigation for over two decades.

Tor has built a reputation for taking on some of the largest corporations in the world, holding them accountable for their negligence in cases that have caused widespread harm to consumers and communities.

His extensive experience in fighting for justice against powerful entities directly relates to his advocacy in seeking compensation for those filing AFFF Lawsuits.

Tor’s leadership is accompanied by a team of dedicated attorneys who focus on the intricacies of each case we take on and have a proven track record of securing compensation for individuals harmed at no fault of their own.

Steve Davis

As a partner at TorHoerman Law, Steve Davis brings extensive experience in managing the firm’s client intake team and guiding clients through the complex legal processes of national litigations in federal court.

Steve has a deep understanding of the AFFF firefighting foam litigation and is skilled in keeping clients informed about the progression of their individual claims.

His hands-on approach ensures that clients are always aware of their case’s status and are supported through each step of the legal process.

Steve’s dedication to clear communication allows him to serve as a vital resource for individuals affected by AFFF foam exposure, ensuring they receive personalized attention and updates on their case’s progression.

Chad Finley

Chad Finley serves as a partner at TorHoerman Law, where he leverages his decade of experience as a science and medical expert to help clients affected by AFFF exposure.

With an extensive background in assessing the long-term medical impacts of injuries, Chad plays a critical role in ensuring that clients receive comprehensive compensation for the full scope of their suffering.

His ability to accurately evaluate the medical ramifications of PFAS exposure enables him to assess damages meticulously, ensuring that victims of AFFF exposure are fairly compensated for both present and future medical needs.

Chad’s expertise in the AFFF litigation ensures that each client’s suffering is fully recognized, and he is dedicated to securing just compensation for the health impacts of PFAS exposure.

Ken Brennan

Ken Brennan is a trial attorney with over 20 years of experience specializing in personal injury and mass tort litigation.

At TorHoerman Law, Ken is known for his exceptional research skills and deep understanding of defense strategies.

His comprehensive knowledge of how insurance companies and large corporations defend personal injury claims allows him to build strategies that effectively counter their tactics, aiming to ensure that AFFF exposure victims receive the compensation they deserve.

Ken’s extensive trial experience and strategic approach to litigation make him a powerful advocate for clients impacted by AFFF firefighting foam, where his ability to anticipate and counter defense strategies is key to success.

Tyler Schneider

As the managing partner of TorHoerman Law, Tyler Schneider plays a pivotal role in overseeing the firm’s involvement in the AFFF litigation.

Working with Steve Davis and our client intake team, Tyler ensures that each client receives the attention and resources necessary for a successful legal outcome.

Tyler’s hands-on approach ensures that each case is handled with the utmost care, and his commitment to the firm’s clients ensures that individuals affected by AFFF exposure are supported throughout the litigation process.

Under Tyler’s leadership, TorHoerman Law continues to be a trusted advocate for individuals seeking justice in AFFF cases.

TorHoerman Law: Experienced AFFF Firefighting Foam Attorneys

Our firefighting foam cancer lawyers are currently accepting clients for the AFFF firefighting foam lawsuits from all 50 states.

Companies that produced and distributed aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) are facing thousands of AFFF lawsuits.

If you or a loved one were exposed to AFFF and subsequently developed cancer or other health issues, you may be eligible to file an AFFF Lawsuit.

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free case evaluation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify for the AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit instantly.

Reach out to our attorneys for more information, and visit this page for the latest AFFF Lawsuit update.

We’re here to help you seek justice and compensation.