PFAS - Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances - Public Health
Sep 30, 2024 · They are also present in fire-fighting foams (or aqueous film forming foam; AFFF) used by both civilian and military firefighters. Also known as the "forever chemicals", PFAS are persistent (i.e., they do not break down) in the environment, and since they are used in the manufacturing of so many products, they are widespread internationally.
Firefighting Foams: PFAS vs. Fluorine-Free Foams - U.S. Fire Administration
May 25, 2023 · Learn about the differences between PFAS and fluorine-free firefighting foams, the harmful effects of PFAS, and what's being done about it. A new military specification requires firefighting foams to effectively extinguish class B hydrocarbon liquid fuel …
‘Forever chemicals’: What firefighters need to know about AFFF and PFAS
Jun 8, 2021 · For decades, firefighters have used aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) to help extinguish difficult-to-suppress fires, particularly Class B fires involving petroleum products or other flammable...
Firefighting Foam Chemicals: DOD Is Investigating PFAS and …
Jun 22, 2021 · As of March 2021, DOD had identified six potential PFAS-free foam candidates; however, PFAS-free foams have been unable to fully meet DOD's current performance requirements. By law, DOD must ensure that a PFAS-free firefighting alternative is available for use at its installations by October 2023.
PFAS in and from Firefighting - by Marina Schauffler
Jan 7, 2025 · Addressing PFAS risks is particularly hard for small-town fire departments, which often lack the resources to address PFAS contamination, acquire safer products, and follow protective protocols.. Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) containing PFAS, commonly used for decades to fight Class B (flammable fuel) fires, has left a wake of residual contamination.
It’s Time To Switch to PFAS-Free Firefighting Foams
Apr 22, 2020 · PFAS is the key ingredient in a special kind of firefighting foam – aqueous film-forming foam, or AFFF, typically used on high-heat fuel fires. For decades, AFFF discharged during fire emergencies and routine training exercises has resulted in large releases of PFAS into nearby drinking water sources.
Your State Guide to PFAS - International Association of Fire Chiefs
Jun 3, 2019 · Learn how to protect yourself against exposure to dangerous chemicals found in firefighting aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) solutions by watching this short and helpful U.S. Fire Administration Video.
Firefighting Foam and PFAS - State of Michigan
There are two major classes of firefighting foam: Class A and Class B. Class B is also called Aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) and is usually created using PFAS. It is a highly effective foam used for fighting high-hazard flammable liquid fires, like gasoline, oil, and jet fuel.
PFAS in Firefighting Foam (AFFF) and Equipment: State-by-state ...
Dec 20, 2024 · Numerous states have either enacted or proposed regulations regarding per- or polyfluoroalkyl substances (“PFAS”) present in Class B Aqueous Film-Forming Foams (“AFFF”) used for firefighting,...
Firefighting Foam: DOD is Working to Address Challenges to ...
Jul 8, 2024 · The Defense Department is required to transition away from using firefighting foam that contains PFAS, a class of chemicals that poses health risks and has been found in drinking water around bases. This kind of foam has been considered the most effective product for suppressing jet fuel fires.