What is an AFFF?
AFFF stands for Aqueous Film Forming Foam, which is a type of firefighting foam used in extinguishing flammable liquid fires, particularly those involving jet fuel and petroleum.
AFFF contains PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which are also known as “forever chemicals,” and are harmful to both the human body and the environment.
What is an AFFF Lawsuit?
An AFFF Lawsuit is a legal action taken against exposure to Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF). AFFF has various adverse health effects, and these cases are generally filed by firefighters or military personnel.
AFFF lawsuit targets the manufacturers of firefighting foam, who not only showed negligence by producing such equipment, but also by failing to notify of its adverse effects, putting several human lives at risk.
AFFF lawsuits can be declared as mass tort cases because various victims who have had similar damages or health problems to file claims against the manufacturing companies. Each case is judged separately; however, the plaintiff gains an additional edge over shared evidence, expert testimonies, and other legal resources.
Health risks of AFFF:
Immediate/ acute symptoms
- Skin and eye irritation – Exposure to AFFF causes skin irritation, redness, itching, rashes, and can even lead to chemical burns in some cases.
Eye contact can lead to irritation, redness, itching, and potentially temporary vision problems. - Respiratory problems – Inhaling AFFF foam or even its vapors can irritate the respiratory system, and in some cases, it can cause symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
- Gastrointestinal issues – Ingesting AFFF-contaminated food and water leads to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
- Neurological effects – Some individuals have reported neurological symptoms like headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory difficulties, and trouble concentrating after exposure to AFFF.
Chronic health diseases
- Increased cancer risk – PFAS content in AFFF has increased the risk of various cancers, including kidney, breast, testicular, and pancreatic cancers in humans.
- Thyroid Disease – AFFF exposure links with thyroid dysfunction and leads to health conditions like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, etc, and these health conditions are not easily reversible.
- Fertility issues – Exposure to PFAS chemicals can interfere with the body’s endocrine system, and that leads to hormonal imbalances and infertility.
- Cardiovascular diseases – Some people have reported that there is a link between AFFF and cardiovascular diseases as well. Cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension and increased cholesterol.
Who all can file a case?
You might be eligible if you:
- If you have worked as a firefighter, military personnel, or airport personnel who handled AFFF regularly.
- Lived near a military base, airport, or industrial site with access to only PFAS- PFAS-contaminated food and water.
- Have a medical diagnosis linked to PFAS exposure, such as certain cancers or thyroid disease.
Steps to Filing an AFFF Claim
- Check eligibility first – Check if you’ve been directly exposed to AFFF and are eligible for filing the case, and that can be through your job, your environment.
- Gather evidence – Employment records (e.g., military service certificates, firefighting training documents), medical records showing diagnosis, treatments, and doctors’ notes, and proof of living near known contamination sites.
- Consult with a lawyer – AFFF lawsuits are complex. They require specialized legal experience. A lawyer can help you: To determine your eligibility, calculate potential compensation, navigate the legal process, and meet deadlines.
- Join mass tort case – If your case qualifies, joining a mass tort action then joining with them will allow you to benefit from shared resources while still having your claim evaluated individually.
Conclusion
AFFF may have saved lives in the moment, but for many, it has created a lifetime of health struggles. If you or someone you know has been affected, then it is worth exploring your legal options. PFAS exposures are linked to serious diseases, and a growing body of evidence against manufacturers. The fight for justice is very far from over.
Your health matters, your story matters, and your right to seek justice matters most of all. An experienced lawyer can help you take the right steps, both to protect your health and to make sure those who are responsible are held to account.
