Increased groundwater contamination incidents have placed AFFF (Aqueous Film-Forming Foam) under legal scrutiny. This toxic foam is used widely in firefighting and has hazardous human and environmental impacts. What makes AFFF hazardous? It contains PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), a cluster of chemicals that do not break down easily and remain in water sources for years.
In 2023, Statista.com reported that PFAS was found in tap water samples from 18 states in the United States, between May and June. The highest concentration was detected in New Jersey and Monroe, with nearly 82 ppt (parts per trillion).
Additionally, PFAS contamination was discovered in leading metropolitan areas like Denver, Austin, and Los Angeles. The report stated that people in these areas are exposed to unsafe drinking water.
The potential health hazards of AFFF exposure include immune system issues and cancer. As a result, there is a need for increased scrutiny and stricter regulations to resolve this issue.
This article will discuss the dangers of groundwater contamination due to PFAS and how to seek legal recourse.
Understanding the Purpose of AFFF and its Toxicity
AFFF is a firefighting agent designed to extinguish high-intensity fires. It’s mainly used for fires fueled by oil, gasoline, and other flammable liquids. The foam’s efficiency lies in its ability to create a protective layer between the oxygen and fuel, smothering the flames.
The types of PFAS present in AFFF are PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate). Since these chemicals are man-made, they do not dissolve into the environment and can contaminate water sources. Additionally, the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer) classified PFOA as a Group 2B carcinogen, meaning it may cause cancer in humans.
AFFF Exposure and Groundwater Contamination
How can AFFF exposure contaminate groundwater? When PFAS reaches the groundwater, removing it becomes challenging because it does not degrade naturally. This persistence caused PFAS to spread, polluting nearby water sources over time. Instances of such contamination are prevalent across the globe.
In August 2024, Aboutlawsuits.com reported that Maine environmental officials found 1,450 gallons of PFAS chemicals had entered the state’s water supply. This tragic incident occurred in early August and increased the health issues for Brunswick residents.
Responding to this crisis, the officials organized a press conference to address this issue. A Unified Command was developed to resolve the problem. It included state environmental regulators, such as the Maine Department of Health and Human Services and the Midcoast Regional Redevelopment Authority.
Additionally, the University of Arizona recently published new research as part of its Geographic Information Systems Technology master’s program. Dana Rowland, a researcher, studied PFAS levels in the blood of Airway Heights residents, a town near Spokane with about 11,000 people.
The research used detailed mapping and hydrological analysis to track groundwater flow from PFAS contamination and landfills. Environmental assessments and military records confirmed the use and disposal of AFFF at these locations. Furthermore, the study linked periods of AFFF use to spikes in PFAS levels in local water.
Health Risks Associated with AFFF-Related Groundwater Contamination
When PFAS chemicals enter the human body through contaminated groundwater, it causes a range of health issues. According to TorHoerman Law, health problems develop based on the duration and frequency of the exposure. PFAS-contaminated water causes breast, colon, bladder, and other types of cancer. Additionally, other health problems include:
- Ulcerative colitis
- Liver enzyme fluctuations
- Elevated cholesterol levels
- Minimized vaccine responses in children
- Pre-eclampsia for pregnant women
- Reduced fertility
While these diseases may develop over time, people might face specific physical symptoms. ConsumerShield.com, in September 2024, listed immediate side effects of AFFF exposure, such as:
- Dizziness
- Respiratory diseases
- Headaches
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Skin and eye irritation
Therefore, it is necessary to keep a tab on your health if you have been residing in an area prone to PFAS exposure. You must get a medical diagnosis if you experience any of these side effects to determine if you’ve developed any chronic ailment.
Taking Legal Recourse
Once you are certain that your illness is because of consuming PFAS-contaminated water, you can take legal action. This will allow you to file a firefighter foam lawsuit and receive the compensation you deserve to cover your losses. In case of groundwater contamination, the settlement may include cleanup costs and monitoring the polluted water sources.
As of June 2024, 9,576 lawsuits are pending in the MDL in South Carolina. Also, lawyers are accepting new cases after a thorough evaluation. Therefore, you should consult an experienced lawyer who specializes in similar cases. They can guide you through the legal process to ensure you receive your compensation on time. Also, they will inform you about the settlement payout amount, which can vary based on the extent of the contamination and harm.
FAQs
What are the common risks of PFAS-contaminated groundwater?
Exposure to elevated levels of PFAS in contaminated drinking water can lead to several health issues. It includes higher cholesterol levels, altered liver enzymes, hormone imbalances, and an increased risk of thyroid disease.
How can you test the presence of PFAS in water?
To test your water for PFAS, laboratory test kits are essential. You can obtain these kits from suppliers or through public utilities and health departments. The process involves collecting a water sample for analysis. Note that test strips are not capable of detecting PFAS.
How to eliminate PFAS from groundwater?
The primary method for addressing PFAS contamination involves extracting and filtering groundwater. This process uses interceptor wells to draw groundwater to the surface, where it is then treated with granular activated carbon to remove PFAS.
Considering these facts, groundwater pollution from PFAS is a widespread issue globally. The communities affected by this deserve justice and compensation. There is a need for legal action to hold AFFF manufacturers like 3M Company, DuPont, and Chermors accountable for their products. Public awareness and advocacy can also bring about a regulatory change. Furthermore, fire departments should seek out fluorine-free foams to reduce the dangers of AFFF exposure.
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