AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit

For decades, Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) has been widely used to combat fuel and petroleum-based fires, particularly on military bases, airports, and in firefighting training. While highly effective in suppressing flames, the chemicals in AFFF—known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—are now recognized as toxic and linked to severe health conditions. Individuals and communities affected by PFAS exposure are now pursuing legal action against manufacturers to hold them accountable for the harm caused by these dangerous substances.

What Is AFFF Firefighting Foam?

AFFF is a fire suppressant composed of water, foam concentrate, and air. It works by forming a blanket-like layer over flammable liquids, preventing oxygen from fueling the fire. This foam has been a critical tool for extinguishing high-hazard fires involving jet fuel, gasoline, and other flammable materials.

Unfortunately, the PFAS chemicals used in AFFF—such as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS)—are highly persistent in the environment and the human body. Often referred to as “forever chemicals,” they resist breaking down and accumulate over time, posing long-term risks to health and the ecosystem.

Health Risks Linked to AFFF Exposure

Scientific studies have connected prolonged exposure to PFAS chemicals with a range of serious health conditions. Common health risks include:

• Testicular, kidney, liver, and pancreatic cancer
• Thyroid disease
• High cholesterol
• Immune system suppression
• Fertility issues and pregnancy complications
• Developmental effects in children

Individuals at higher risk of exposure include firefighters, military personnel, and residents of communities near military bases or airports where AFFF has been extensively used. These groups are often exposed to contaminated drinking water, soil, and air due to improper disposal or long-term use of the foam.

Environmental Contamination and PFAS Chemicals

Beyond human health, AFFF has also had a devastating impact on the environment. PFAS chemicals have been detected in groundwater, rivers, and drinking water supplies across the United States. Contamination from firefighting foam affects not only those who directly use it but also nearby communities reliant on these water sources.

Efforts to address this contamination have led to significant cleanup initiatives, but the widespread nature of PFAS pollution continues to create challenges for affected areas.

Holding AFFF Manufacturers Accountable

Manufacturers of AFFF have a legal responsibility to ensure their products are safe and to warn users about potential risks. Lawsuits allege that companies like 3M and DuPont knew about the harmful effects of PFAS chemicals but failed to act. Legal claims against these manufacturers focus on negligence, failure to warn, and defective product design.

Victims affected by AFFF exposure may be eligible to pursue compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Environmental remediation costs

Legal Options for Victims

Access Justice Group is dedicated to helping victims explore their legal options, including:

• Individual Lawsuits: Pursue your case independently to maintain control over the proceedings.
• Multi-District Litigation (MDL): Join a coordinated legal effort that streamlines pre-trial processes for similar cases while preserving individual claims.
• Class Actions: Participate in collective legal actions to address widespread harm caused by AFFF manufacturers.

Contact Access Justice Group Today

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer or another serious health condition after AFFF exposure, our experienced attorneys are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn about your legal rights and take the first step toward justice.