Fire Departments Continue Using PFAS-Laden Gear Despite Health Concerns
Despite scientific evidence linking PFAS chemicals to cancer, many fire departments nationwide, including in the Greenville-Spartanburg-Asheville-Anderson area, continue to use turnout gear containing these substances. Challenges such as the high cost of replacement gear, confusion about the science, and reluctance…
Greenville Spartanburg Asheville Anderson, SC, August 17, 2026 —
Fire departments across the nation, including those in the Greenville-Spartanburg-Asheville-Anderson region, are continuing to utilize turnout gear that contains PFAS chemicals, despite mounting scientific evidence linking these substances to serious health risks, including cancer. This continued use presents a significant challenge for firefighter safety and health.
Several factors contribute to the slow pace of replacing the existing gear. The high cost associated with acquiring new, PFAS-free turnout equipment is a significant hurdle for many departments with limited budgets. Additionally, there appears to be ongoing confusion regarding the scientific evidence and the precise risks associated with PFAS exposure, leading to hesitancy in making the switch. Some fire chiefs have also expressed reluctance to fully acknowledge the dangers, further complicating efforts to transition to safer alternatives.
The International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) has recently updated its position, now prioritizing the acquisition of PFAS-free gear, signaling a shift in the broader firefighting community towards addressing this issue. This organizational stance is expected to put further pressure on departments to find solutions for replacing their current protective equipment.
Meanwhile, legal actions are underway, with lawsuits filed against manufacturers of turnout gear containing PFAS chemicals. These legal proceedings may shed further light on the issue and potentially influence future regulations or industry practices.
The long-term health implications for firefighters who have been exposed to PFAS through their gear remain a significant concern. The chemicals, known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are persistent in the environment and the human body.
Story summarized from the original created by Joce Sterman, Daniela Molina, Scotty Smith on www.foxcarolina.com, see more information here.
