Firefighters are our heroes, fighting flames while risking their lives to save others. However, while they confront the immediate dangers of fires, they also face another threat: cancer. Firefighting foam, a crucial tool in extinguishing flammable liquid fires, has recently come under scrutiny for its potential role in exposing firefighters to carcinogens.
Let’s delve into four ways firefighting foam puts these brave individuals at risk.
1. Chemical Composition
Firefighting foam contains a concoction of chemicals, including PFAS, which give the foam its extinguishing properties. PFAS are synthetic compounds known for their persistence in the environment and bioaccumulative properties. When firefighters come into contact with foam during training exercises or actual firefighting operations, they may absorb PFAS or inhale them as aerosolized particles.
According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, PFAS exposure can lead to various health concerns. These include cancer, prostate, kidney failure, weakened immune system, and much more. Because the immune system drops significantly, an individual’s body’s ability to work on vaccinations also drops. Some also face high cholesterol levels and a risk of obesity.
Furthermore, PFAS can persist in the body for years, amplifying the long-term health risks for firefighters.
2. Contaminated Gear and Equipment
Firefighters rely on specialized gear and equipment to shield themselves from heat and flames. However, this gear can become contaminated with toxic firefighting foam during operations. Despite decontamination efforts, residual PFAS may linger on gear surfaces. This exposes firefighters to prolonged contact with these harmful substances.
The International Association of Fire Fighters stated that all three layers of firefighting suits are usually found to be contaminated. The gears get contaminated with PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals.” These are called so because once they stick to gear, they remain there forever. Additionally, firefighting equipment such as hoses and nozzles can retain traces of foam after use.
3. Lack of Regulation and Awareness
Despite growing concerns surrounding PFAS exposure, there is a lack of awareness that it can cause health issues. TorHoerman Law notes that many are still unaware of the actions they can take. For example, many firefighters may not be aware of potential health risks like firefighting foam cancer.
Regulations governing the use and disposal of firefighting foam vary widely between regions. This contributes to inconsistencies in risk management practices. Without uniform guidelines, firefighters remain vulnerable to the effects of PFAS without protection.
4. Environmental Contamination
Firefighting foam is not only a hazard to firefighters but also to the surrounding environment. As per the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, foam runoff can seep into soil and water sources during fire suppression. This contaminates the ecosystems, entering the food chain. Fire training facilities, where foam is routinely used, are susceptible to PFAS contamination of soil and groundwater.
Firefighters stationed near these facilities may face elevated exposure levels. Moreover, the unbroken existence of PFAS in the environment indicates that even after firefighting ceases, the threat remains intact. These threats pose health risks to both firefighters and nearby communities.
FAQs
1. What are the negative effects of AFFF?
AFFF stands concerning because of PFAS per- and (poly-fluoroalkyl substances) content. PFAS negatively impacts both human health and our environment. Long or repetitive exposure to this PFAS chemical leads to dangerous health issues like cancer, weak immune system, etc. Also, because it does not break down easily, it contaminates soil and water, harming wildlife as well.
2. What is the shelf-life of firefighting foam?
According to experts, the shelf life of firefighting foam is expected to be for years. If stored correctly, the AFFF-LF and AFFF concentrates can last for 10-20 years. Also, because it remains under the manufacturers’ specific guidelines and checking, temperature is stored in the original shipping containers.
3. Is firefighting foam biodegradable?
The National Library of Medicine stated that all three materials, when diluted in water, resulted in 77-96% biodegradability. This percentage meets the criteria for ready biodegradability.
Firefighting foam represents a significant overlooked source of cancer risk for firefighters. From its chemical composition to its environmental impact, foam poses multifaceted dangers. These dangers demand attention from both regulatory bodies and the firefighting community. To mitigate these risks –
- Concerted efforts are needed to develop safer alternatives to PFAS-based foam,
- Implement stricter regulations on foam use and disposal, and
- Prioritise firefighter health and safety through comprehensive training and awareness programs.
By addressing these challenges, we can ensure that firefighters continue to protect lives without compromising their health.
