A fire broke out on July 8th, 2023, in a cargo ship docked at the Newark Port. Two firefighters lost their lives in a heroic attempt to bring everything under control. Shortly afterward, gas tank explosions turned the situation into a fuel fire.
Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) containing per-and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) can be effective in such situations. It possesses a chemical compound that creates a barrier and instantaneously cuts off the oxygen supply, helping extinguish the fire.
For several years, AFFF was utilized to extinguish hazardous fuel fires. However, Environmental Working Group (EWG) studies have demonstrated the toxicity of AFFF and PFAS. The product has been discontinued in many states owing to detrimental effects on human and environmental health.
In this blog, we will take a closer look at the applications of AFFF and alternatives.
AFFF Applications That You Cannot Ignore
AFFF, with its strong chemical bond, is a highly effective product for extinguishing fuel fires. You can use it to combat high-risk flammable liquid fires falling under Class B fires. Furthermore, AFFF can suppress flammable liquids such as kerosene, alcohol, gasoline, or ether.
Firefighters use AFFF to extinguish Class B and higher fire risks. Examples include fires at military facilities, chemical plants, and fire departments. AFFF is useful in situations such as oil tanker explosions and other offshore platforms. Additionally, AFFF aids firefighting efforts at oil refineries, bulk storage facilities, flammable liquid storage units, and aviation testing.
For many years, AFFF has played a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity of various buildings and locations. However, now, more people are aware of the potential threats leading to the discontinuation of AFFF.
Why Is AFFF Harmful?
The presence of PFAS makes AFFF hazardous. For instance, PFAS contains synthetic compounds such as perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). According to TruLaw, these “forever chemicals” do not break down and have been classified as carcinogenic.
The chemical bonds in PFAS are persistently strong and remain in the human body or environment for years. Companies like DuPont and 3M knew this but did not warn the consumers and workers.
Individuals filed afff foam cancer lawsuit and claims against the manufacturers and distributors of AFFF upon discovering its harmful side effects. Subsequently, a class action litigation called the AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit was set in motion. Firefighters, workers, and manufacturers developed cancer due to AFFF exposure. These individuals can file claims and be awarded compensation between USD 40,000 to USD 300,000.
As of this writing, 3M, Chemours, DuPont, and Corteva have been ordered to pay a total settlement of USD 1,525 million.
Can AFFF Still Be Used?
Research and studies continue to uncover the detrimental effects of AFFF exposure. Consequently, many believe that AFFF utilization depends on the specific situation and severity of the fuel fire. In response, the American government passed the PFAS Action Act of 2021, which mandates companies to minimize AFFF usage.
However, according to Public Health Watch, the use of toxic firefighting foam continues despite the potential ban. That is because the regulations surrounding the AFFF ban vary across different states, industries, and businesses.
For instance, certain states like California, Nevada, and more have implemented a ban on AFFF usage, while others still permit it. Government regulations stipulate that AFFF should only be used during critical situations such as alcohol-based incidents, hydrocarbon fires, and aviation accidents.
Are There Any AFFF Alternatives?
The EWG advocates for the elimination of “forever chemicals” in firefighting operations. However, PFAS in AFFF possesses properties such as heat resistance, water solubility, and rapid spreading, which make it effective in suppressing liquid fires. That is why firefighters use this product in critical situations.
But technological advancements in firefighting have led to the production of viable AFFF alternatives. Some of them include the following:
- Dry chemical agents: These are pressurized chemical powders effective against hazardous fires.
- Fluorine-free foam: This synthetic foam has surfactant and polysaccharides that extinguishes fire by cooling it down.
- C6 concentrates: It works like an advanced formula of AFFF that is less concentrated and hazardous.
These substitutes are a safer option for suppressing fuel fires while minimizing the risks of PFAS exposure.
The Way Forward
AFFF has been utilized due to its composition, effectiveness, and applications. It can extinguish fuel fires in various settings like military facilities and chemical plants.
However, firefighters should avoid using AFFF regularly due to its PFAS contents. As mentioned, PFAS is a synthetic compound with “forever chemicals” such as PFOS and PFOA. Prolonged exposure to these harmful chemicals can lead to various health issues, including fertility, thyroid disorders, cancer, etc.
On the other hand, these chemicals possess a carbon-fluorine bond that is extremely difficult to break down. These elements can permeate groundwater and threaten vegetation and wildlife. Therefore, firefighters must minimize AFF exposure and explore safer alternatives.
