Aqueous Film Forming Foam, known as AFFF or firefighting foam, is a fire suppressant that subdues fires by creating a film between the fire and the oxygen needed to keep one going. AFFF is used in many situations where highly flammable products are used, such as at commercial airports and military bases. Many local fire departments also use AFFF to extinguish fires. AFFF contains active chemicals known as poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have serious health effects and risks. Due to this, a multi-district litigation (MDL) lawsuit has been filed to help victims who developed serious health conditions like cancer after AFFF exposure. Learn more about the litigation, eligibility requirements, and court updates below.
Firefighter Foam Litigation: An Overview
People who had prolonged exposure to AFFF and developed certain forms of cancer have filed claims against AFFF manufacturers, alleging these companies knew about the health risks associated with AFFF but didn’t notify the public. Plaintiffs in the lawsuits include firefighters, airport workers, former military personnel, and residential homeowners exposed to AFFF through their vocation or drinking water. AFFF cases were consolidated into an MDL in 2022.
What’s the Problem with Fire Fighting Foam?
Multiple studies have concluded that prolonged exposure to the PFAS chemicals found in firefighting foam can cause numerous types of cancer. AFFF products have been used since the 1960s, so exposure is widespread. Evidence suggests AFFF manufacturers like DuPont and 3M were aware of the product’s toxicity but continued manufacturing it.
Is AFFF Foam Linked to Cancer?
Yes. Multiple scientific agencies have published studies and health advisories linking AFFF exposure to increased cancer risk. These agencies include the Environmental Protection Agency, the CDC, and the American Cancer Society. The types of cancers that have been linked to AFFF exposure include:
- Pancreatic cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Liver cancer
- Leukemia (and other blood cancers)
- Lymphoma
- Prostate cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Breast cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Thyroid cancer
How Are People Exposed to AFFF?
There are two primary ways victims are exposed to AFFF:
Occupational
AFFF was regularly used at commercial airports as a part of emergency response training, at military bases to suppress jet fuel fires, and in industrial facilities as a part of fire-safety procedures. Those who worked in fields that regularly used or manufactured AFFF, such as firefighters and military members, are the most at risk of adverse health effects.
Groundwater
Another way people are exposed to PFAS chemicals found in firefighting foam is through contaminated drinking water. Evidence suggests that harmful AFFF chemicals seeped into the groundwater of residential areas near facilities that regularly used and manufactured AFFF, contaminating the drinking water. Several municipalities are listed as plaintiffs in the MDL for this reason.
Who are the Defendants in the AFFF Lawsuit?
AFFF manufacturers such as DuPont, 3M, and Chemours are the largest defendants in the class action lawsuit. Other organizations that used or manufactured AFFF are also named as defendants.
AFFF Litigation Updates—June 2023
The total number of lawsuits is nearly 4,800, with over 1,400 cases added since January. The first trial was set to start on June 5th, but 3M (one of the largest defendants in the case) filed a motion to delay the trial. They cited that they were close to developing a settlement over contaminated drinking water with the various cities and towns included in the MDL. The South Carolina judge presiding over the case granted them a three-week extension.
How Do You Qualify for the AFFF Lawsuit?
You must meet certain criteria to file a claim for damages from AFFF exposure. First, you must have been regularly exposed to AFFF through your job, place of employment, or contaminated drinking water. You must also have been diagnosed with one of the cancers listed above.
Representation for Victims Exposed to AFFF
Were you exposed to AFFF and received a cancer diagnosis? Contact our team at Michael Brady Lynch Law Firm to discuss your case. You could be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses and other costs. Litigation is ongoing, and our firm is currently seeking qualifying cases to join this class action lawsuit. Call our office at 888-585-5970 or use our online contact form to get started.
Date: June 27, 2023
Author: Brandon Salter
