Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) is a fire-extinguishing solution used predominantly in the suppression of high-hazard, fast-spreading fires. Its primary components are fluorinated surfactants and water, which work together to create a blanket-like film over the fire, effectively cutting off the oxygen supply. However, the fluorinated surfactants in AFFF are composed of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have been linked to numerous health conditions. Man health institutions have recognized AFFF as a carcinogen.
Exposure to Aqueous Film Forming Foam has been linked to:
- kidney cancer
- testicular cancer
- thyroid disease
- ulcerative colitis
- liver damage
- bladder cancer
- pancreatic cancer
- liver cancer
- breast cancer
- leukemia (and other blood cancers)
- prostate cancer
- ovarian cancer
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
File a Claim in the AFFF Multidistrict Lawsuit (AFFF MDL)
The lawsuits allege that the defendants knew or should have known about the health and environmental risks associated with PFAS, yet continued to manufacture, distribute, and use AFFF without adequate warnings or safeguards.
Who Can File A Claim?
- firefighters
- military personnel
- skilled trades exposure to AFFF in industrial settings
- residents living near contaminated facilities
Industries Using AFFF
AFFF is widely used across various industries. The primary user is the military, especially in naval and air force bases for fire training exercises and emergency responses. Other industries include the aviation industry, oil and gas industry, and firefighting departments. It is also used in chemical plants, storage facilities, and onboard ships.
AFFF in the Military
Aqueous firefighting foam (AFFF) has been extensively used at military bases worldwide for decades due to its effectiveness in suppressing fuel-based fires. Military bases are particularly susceptible to AFFF contamination due to the frequency of training exercises and emergency response drills involving firefighting activities. As a result, groundwater, soil, and surface water sources near military installations have also been found to contain elevated levels of PFAS, posing risks to both military personnel and surrounding communities.
Manufacturers of AFFF
- 3M
- DuPont
- Chemguard
- National Foam
- Angus Fire
- Tyco Fire Products
- Buckeye Fire Equipment
- Kidde Fire Fighting
Suppliers of AFFF
- Johnson Controls
- Solberg
- Dr. Sthamer
- Eau&Feu
- SFFECO Global
- Orchidee
- KV Fire Chemicals
Is AFFF still legal?
Aaqueous firefighting foam (AFFF) containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is still legal and commonly used for certain firefighting applications. However, there have been significant regulatory developments and increasing scrutiny regarding the use of PFAS-containing AFFF due to environmental and health concerns. Many jurisdictions have implemented regulations to restrict or phase out the use of PFAS-based firefighting foams, especially in non-emergency situations or training exercises where alternatives can be used. Additionally, there has been a growing push for the development and adoption of PFAS-free alternatives to AFFF.
Should I hire an AFFF lawyer?
Hiring a lawyer is paramount if you’ve been exposed to aqueous fire fighting foam (AFFF) due to its potential health risks and environmental implications. Our lawyers will assess your situation, investigate the circumstances of your exposure, and determine if you have grounds for legal action. We will help navigate the complex landscape of AFFF litigation, which often involves multiple parties, including manufacturers, distributors, and government entities. We will advocate on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for any injuries or damages incurred. We will guide you through the legal process, handling all the necessary paperwork, negotiations, and court proceedings, while providing support and expertise every step of the way. Hiring a lawyer ensures that you have a dedicated advocate fighting for your interests and holding accountable those responsible for your exposure to AFFF. Gianaris Trial Lawyers will help you protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.
