Mankind’s challenges are typically addressed by human inventions. However, in this complex environment, one never knows when the answer itself creates a new issue that needs to be resolved. Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is one of the most well-known instances of such an invention.
It has played a significant role in fire suppression and prevention for several decades. The development and evolution of AFFF can be traced back to the mid-20th century. This was when advancements in firefighting techniques and technologies were being made.
There are mainly two types of firefighting foam:
- Class A: This type of foam is used to put out fires caused by wood, paper, brush, and vegetation (wildland). It works by employing compressed air foam systems.
- Class B: This foam is used to put out fires caused by substances like oil, jet fuel and petrol. The high-hazard flammable liquid fires stated above are put out with aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF).
This article aims to provide a historical overview of aqueous film-forming foam, from highlighting its origins to banning its practices.
Historical Background
The first ever firefighting foam was ideated by Aleksandr Loran, a Russian engineer and chemist in 1902. His was the first firefighting foam that could smother and cover oil and other liquid-based fires to put them out.
As multiple advancements were made, research on the use of synthetic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foams got started in the 1960s. It was done by the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) and the 3M Company.
The Department of Defence (DoD) started deploying AFFF at military installations by the late 1970s. It was also available for use in commercial airports for fire control. Eventually, AFFF spread to other industrial and petroleum-related sites that handled extremely volatile substances.
Additionally, local fire departments added AFFF to their firefighting tools. They were in charge of aviation facilities, fuel storage depots, or tankers carrying petroleum products.
Danger Zone
PFOS and PFOA have been shown in lab experiments to be harmful to wildlife in addition to people. Moreover, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified PFOA as a 2B carcinogen.
Exposure to these chemicals may cause:
- Reproductive dysfunction
- Reduction in the response of the immune system
- High risk of cancer
- Liver damage
- Pregnancy-induced hypertension
Given the harmful effects of PFOS and PFOA, victims who were exposed to the chemicals have filed MDLs. The manufacture and use of PFAS without appropriate EPA assessment and clearance has been outlawed by a number of governments.
The impacted parties are informed about their legal options for seeking recompense through the litigation. Following their exposure to firefighting foam, this litigation effort includes filing firefighter foam lawsuit cases.
Time For Strict Actions
In Michigan, a statewide Class B AFFF pickup and disposal program was initially implemented to safeguard residents and firefighters while removing AFFF from the environment. As of April 2023, Michigan had collected about 60,000 gallons of it.
Attorney General Kathy Jennings of Delaware filed litigation against fourteen firms in October of 2023. They were sued for manufacturing firefighting foam that allegedly leaked toxins into the area’s soils and aquifers. According to TorHoerman Law, 327 new cases were added to the MDL as of July 2024.
People who have been diagnosed with cancer or other health issues after being exposed to firefighting foam are eligible to file a lawsuit. As per the most recent Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML), 9,525 litigation awaiting consolidation, as of August 1st, 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is AFFF firefighting foam safe to use?
AFFF foam contains chemicals known as per my last response, AFFF foam contains chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have raised concerns about their environmental and health impacts. While effective in firefighting, the use of AFFF foam has been associated with potential environmental contamination and health risks.
What are the environmental concerns associated with AFFF fire fighting foam?
PFAS compounds are included in AFFF foam and are a major environmental concern. These chemicals are persistent in the environment and have been connected to a number of health problems. Improper disposal or accidental release of AFFF foam can lead to contamination of soil, water sources, and wildlife.
How can the environmental impact of AFFF foam be mitigated?
To mitigate the environmental impact of AFFF foam, proper handling, storage, and disposal practices are essential. Using alternative firefighting methods, such as foam-free agents or mechanical means, in situations where AFFF foam is not necessary can also help reduce environmental contamination.
Are there regulations governing the use of AFFF firefighting foam?
Yes, there are regulations in place that govern the use and disposal of AFFF firefighting foam. Environmental agencies and firefighting authorities provide guidelines on the proper use, handling, and disposal of AFFF foam to minimize its environmental impact.
It is important to be aware of the settlement amounts that are expected as compensation against the claims. According to the judicial community, the settlements against AFFF lawsuits may range from $10,000 to over $300,000.
The compensation depends on the strength of the case, level of exposure, and medical complications.
If you have been exposed to AFFF anytime in your life, do consult a healthcare provider, and if affected, reach out to an attorney and responsibly file a lawsuit. These small steps taken from your side can contribute towards saving many lives.
