Bill offers firefighter PFAS protection

A bill designed to protect the health and safety of firefighters and emergency responders frequently exposed to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in foams was recently introduced by Sens. Cory Gardner (R-CO), Gary Peters (D-MI), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), and Maggie Hassan (D-NH).

The Protecting Firefighters from Adverse Substances (PFAS) Act of 2019 directs federal agencies to develop best practices, training, and educational programs to reduce, limit, and prevent exposure to PFAS.

“Our firefighters and emergency responders in Colorado and around the country risk everything to protect our communities, and it is our duty to make sure they are educated on the best ways to avoid and mitigate any PFAS exposure during emergency response and training activities,” Gardner said. “PFAS contamination is a serious issue facing our communities, and I will continue working to make sure Coloradans are provided with the most up to date information concerning PFAS as research regarding their effects on human health continues.”

PFAS are a class of more than 4,700 highly-fluorinated man-made chemicals widely used in industry and consumer products due to their ability to repel water, oil, and heat. Firefighters face disproportionately high levels of PFAS exposure because the substances are a common ingredient in firefighting foams and personal protective equipment.

“Firefighters are unfortunately exposed to extremely high levels of PFAS chemicals in the line of duty,” Peters said. “Despite evidence linking PFAS to serious health problems, very little has been done to address the impact these chemicals can have on the health of the brave men and women who look out for our own safety. I’m proud to lead the way on this bipartisan initiative, which will encourage safer practices and raise awareness about the emerging public health risks these forever chemicals pose.”