Navy AFFF Exposure Types | AFFF Lawsuit for Navy Service Members

What is AFFF Firefighting Foam and Why is it Dangerous?

Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is a vital firefighting tool for combating flammable liquid fires or fires caused by combustible liquid agents.

Produced in collaboration between the US Navy and 3M, AFFF firefighting foam was widely used by many military branches and eventually found uses at municipal airports and other locations at risk of highly flammable liquid fires.

AFFF concentrate transforms into a foam solution with unique properties upon contact with water.

Unlike most fire extinguishing agents, AFFF distinguishes itself through its remarkable capacity to rapidly expand across the surface of flammable liquids.

AFFF forms a blanket over flames and their causative agents and effectively segregates the fuel source from the surrounding air. As a result, the flames die out and no rekindling occurs.

A significant ingredient that enables AFFF firefighting foam to serve its purpose is per and poly-fluoroalkyl substances.

PFAS chemicals – also known as “forever chemicals” – increase the shelf life of AFFF firefighting foam and contributes to the the firefighting foam’s effectiveness.

Unfortunately, these “forever chemicals” are known to cause various illnesses and have been deemed health and environmental threats by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other organizations.

Other than injuries and health conditions related to direct exposure, these agencies have found that AFFF firefighting foam can contaminate groundwater and remain on surfaces.

Due to the health risks posed by AFFF firefighting foam, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and other organizations are working on efforts to completely phase out the use of aqueous film forming foam (AFFF).

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.

Occupational Exposure to AFFF Firefighting Foam: How Does it Occur?

Military service members, flight-deck workers, and military firefighters are filing AFFF Lawsuits to seek compensation for health conditions linked to exposure to toxic firefighting foam.

PFAS-containing AFFF firefighting foams are used in several military settings, including on military bases and aircraft hangars, runways, and during training exercises where the risk of fuel-based fires is high.

Individuals have been exposed to firefighting foam during military service in a number of ways, including:

• Training Exercises
• Use on Aircraft Carriers and Flight Decks
• Emergency Situations
• Transportation and Disposal of Firefighting Foam Products
• Handling and Maintenance of Firefighting Equipment
• Routine Checks and Decontamination of Firefighting Systems
• Storage and Cleanup of AFFF Spills
• Working in Areas Contaminated by AFFF Runoff
• Exposure Through Contaminated Drinking Water on Bases

Training Exercises

Training exercises are a must to hone firefighting skills effectively.

In the past, AFFF was used to simulate firefighting scenarios, providing realistic training environments.

However, this exposure can pose risks to the health of firefighters and other personnel.

Firefighters and trainees may come into contact with AFFF foam through inhalation, skin contact, and even accidental ingestion.

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.

Skin contact can happen when trainees handle AFFF containers or come into direct contact with the foam while fighting simulated fires.

Trainees could accidentally swallow foam during training exercises, ingesting the toxic chemicals and potentially resulting in bioaccumulation.

Use of AFFF on Aircraft Carriers and Flight Decks

In many AFFF firefighting foam cases, victims were exposed to firefighting foam from extinguishing fires on Navy aircraft carriers or flight decks.

The primary route of exposure on aircraft carriers and flight decks is inhalation and direct exposure.

During fire emergencies, AFFF foam is discharged in substantial quantities, generating aerosolized particles that can be inhaled by personnel present on deck.

These aerosolized particles may contain PFAS, which can accumulate in the body over time, potentially leading to adverse health effects.

Direct contact with AFFF-contaminated surfaces may result in skin exposure, particularly if personnel come into contact with foam residues after firefighting operations.

According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), PFAS chemicals can enter the skin and predispose exposed individuals to various cancers and health conditions.

Other Emergency Situations

In other emergency scenarios, AFFF foam has used by firefighters and emergency responders to combat various types of fires, including those in chemical plants, airports, and disasters involving highly flammable materials.

These scenarios often involve the immediate deployment of AFFF foam to suppress fires and protect lives and property.

Like the other forms of exposure mentioned earlier, inhalation remains the main route of exposure for military firefighters and personnel responding to emergencies.

Skin contact and accidental ingestion are also routes of exposure for first responders as they may inadvertently touch AFFF-contaminated surfaces or their protective gear.

Transporting and Disposing of AFFF Firefighting Foam

Military service members, Navy firefighters, and even chemical industry workers involved in the transportation and disposal of AFFF foam are susceptible to exposure risks.

AFFF foam is typically transported in large tanks or trucks, and improper handling or accidents during transportation can lead to exposure.

Workers may inhale vapors or come into contact with spilled foam, leading to potential health hazards.

The disposal of AFFF foam is another critical aspect of its lifecycle.

AFFF foam is commonly disposed of through incineration or dumping in disposal sites, which can present risks to workers responsible for these activities.

Handling and Maintenance of Firefighting Equipment

Handling and maintenance of firefighting equipment involve regular checks and upkeep of AFFF systems to ensure they function properly during emergencies.

During these activities, individuals may come into direct contact with AFFF foam, especially when inspecting, cleaning, or refilling AFFF tanks and hoses.

Skin contact often occurs when equipment is handled without proper protective gear, allowing PFAS chemicals in the foam to be absorbed through the skin.

Inhalation of PFAS particles is also a risk, as fumes can be released when equipment is drained, cleaned, or decontaminated.

Additionally, spills and leaks during maintenance tasks can lead to further exposure if not properly managed, putting workers at risk of long-term health effects​.

Storage and Cleanup of AFFF Spills

The storage and cleanup of AFFF spills pose significant risks to workers, as spills can result in direct contact with the toxic chemicals in AFFF.

When handling containers of AFFF foam or cleaning up accidental spills, workers are at risk of absorbing PFAS chemicals through their skin or inhaling toxic fumes that may be released into the air.

Improper storage or inadequate cleanup procedures can lead to contamination of surrounding areas, exposing more individuals to these harmful substances.

In recent cases, such as the Brunswick spill in Maine, over 1,400 gallons of firefighting foam containing PFAS leaked, highlighting the dangers of improper storage and the importance of cleanup procedures​.

Routine Checks and Decontamination of Firefighting Systems

Routine checks and decontamination of AFFF firefighting systems are essential for ensuring their proper function, but these activities can expose workers to PFAS chemicals.

During these checks, personnel may come into contact with AFFF residue left in tanks, hoses, or other components, which can lead to skin absorption or inhalation of toxic fumes.

Decontamination, which involves flushing and cleaning out AFFF systems, poses additional risks, as foam particles can become aerosolized and inhaled.

These procedures also often require handling large volumes of AFFF, increasing the likelihood of spills or leaks that can further contaminate the surrounding area.

Workers must take extreme care when disposing of used AFFF or cleaning equipment to prevent exposure.

Improper handling or inadequate personal protective equipment (PPE) can result in significant health risks over time.

Working in Areas Contaminated by AFFF Runoff

Workers stationed in areas contaminated by AFFF runoff face significant exposure to PFAS chemicals through soil, water, and even air.

AFFF foam, when used during firefighting or training, can seep into the ground and nearby water sources, creating long-term contamination that affects anyone who works or lives in these areas.

Prolonged exposure to such contaminated environments increases the likelihood of PFAS absorption through skin contact, ingestion of polluted water, or inhalation of dust particles from contaminated soil.

Runoff often affects nearby groundwater, spreading contamination even further.

Workers in contaminated areas must follow strict safety protocols to minimize exposure and reduce the risk of serious health issues associated with PFAS.

Though direct exposure to AFFF is typically required in order to file an AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit, PFAS exposure through contaminated water and runoff remains dangerous.

Exposure Through Contaminated Drinking Water on Bases

Exposure to AFFF-contaminated drinking water has become a significant concern at military bases where PFAS chemicals have leached into groundwater and public water supplies.

On bases where AFFF was used extensively for fire suppression and training exercises, runoff often contaminated local water sources, exposing service members and their families to PFAS through daily consumption.

This long-term exposure can lead to serious health risks, including cancer and other conditions associated with PFAS toxicity.

Despite these dangers, individuals exposed solely through contaminated drinking water do not qualify for an AFFF Lawsuit, which typically focuses on direct occupational exposure to AFFF foam.

However, the health implications for those affected by contaminated water are still substantial, and these individuals may have other legal avenues or health claims to explore.

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

About the AFFF Foam Lawsuits

AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits are being filed against firefighting foam manufacturers by individuals exposed to firefighting foam who have subsequently developed cancer or other health issues.

AFFF Lawsuits are backed by individual medical evidence presented by each plaintiff, as well as records, documents, and scientific evidence that exposes the links between AFFF exposure and cancer diagnosis, among other health conditions.

Personal injury claims for AFFF exposure have been consolidated into the AFFF Firefighting Foam MDL, centralized in the US District Court for the District of South Carolina.

Municipal water contamination cases have also been filed against AFFF manufacturers by governmental bodies and water agencies.

Municipal water contamination cases claim that improper disposal and dumping of AFFF firefighting foam resulted in groundwater contamination.

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

Contact TorHoerman Law’s AFFF lawyers for a free consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify to file an AFFF Lawsuit instantly.

What AFFF Manufacturers are Named in the Firefighting Foam Lawsuit?

AFFF lawsuits are filed against several AFFF manufacturers.

These manufacturers not only produced toxic firefighting foam products, but also supplied the military facilities and installations their products would be used in.

The defendants in the AFFF firefighting foam lawsuits include the following:

• 3M
• DuPont
• Chemours
• Tyco Fire Products
• Corteva Inc.
• BASF Corp.
• Arkema Inc.
• Dynax Corp.
• Buckeye Fire Equipment Company
• Many other AFFF manufacturers

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.

Illnesses and Injuries Linked to Occupational Exposure to AFFF Firefighting Foam

Various health conditions have been associated with exposure to PFAS chemicals in AFFF firefighting foam.

Based on existing literature, AFFF exposure can predispose victims to the following illnesses:

• Kidney cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Colorectal cancer
• Breast cancer
• Thyroid disease
• Several other health conditions and cancers.

Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer is one of the illnesses associated with PFAS exposure.

The National Cancer Institute discovered a strong correlation between exposure to PFAS from firefighting foam and high serum concentrations of PFAS.

High concentrations of PFAS in the blood can predispose individuals to developing kidney tumors.

Testicular Cancer

While the exact mechanisms connecting AFFF foam to this form of cancer remain unclear, one prevailing theory revolves around the disruptive effects of PFAS chemicals found in firefighting foam on the endocrine system.

These disruptions can result in cellular irregularities within reproductive organs, particularly the testicles.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is another ailment associated with a history of extended PFAS and AFFF exposure.

The National Cancer Institute’s research suggests that individuals exposed to PFAS-containing AFFF firefighting foam are more susceptible to developing prostate cancer.

Colorectal Cancer

Several studies have also highlighted a heightened risk of colorectal cancer associated with exposure to PFAS.

One such study was conducted by the University of New Hampshire, Georgetown University, and discovered elevated rates of colorectal cancer in a community exposed to PFAS chemicals.

Breast Cancer

In 2020, the University of California, Berkeley, looked into the effects of AFFF exposure on female firefighters in the local community.

By the end of the study, the researchers found elevated rates of breast cancer in female firefighters due to occupational exposure to AFFF foam.

Thyroid Disease

PFAS chemicals in AFFF foam have endocrine-disrupting effects, meaning they can affect various glands like the thyroid gland.

With prolonged exposure comes an elevated risk of developing diseases like Graves disease (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism.

Do You Qualify for the 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

TorHoerman Law: Experienced Firefighting Foam Lawyers

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.