Protecting Firefighters from PFAS Exposure

Firefighters face unique challenges in their line of duty, including exposure to hazardous substances like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). As concerns over PFAS contamination grow, ensuring the safety of firefighters becomes paramount. In this blog post, we explore how Western Health & Safety Occupational Hygienists in Calgary are at the forefront of protecting firefighters from PFAS exposure.

UNDERSTANDING THE THREAT OF PFAS CONTAMINATION

What are PFAS? PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of synthetic chemicals used in various industrial and consumer products for over 70 years. These chemicals, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), are known for their resistance to oil, water, and stains, making them prevalent in everyday items such as firefighting foam, food packaging, and textiles.

The Health Risks of PFAS Exposure for Firefighters: Firefighters are at heightened risk of PFAS exposure due to the frequent use of firefighting foam and protective gear containing these chemicals. Research indicates that PFAS exposure may lead to adverse health effects, including cancer, cardiovascular issues, and immune system dysfunction, posing a serious concern for firefighter safety and well-being.
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ADDRESSING FIREFIGHTER EXPOSURE TO PFAS

Western Health & Safety Occupational Hygienists conduct thorough assessments of fire station environments to identify potential sources of PFAS contamination. From analyzing water sources to evaluating air quality, they employ comprehensive strategies to mitigate exposure risks and promote a safer working environment for firefighters.
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Conclusion: Protecting firefighters from PFAS exposure is essential to safeguarding their health and well-being. Western Health & Safety Occupational Hygienists play a pivotal role in this endeavor by offering specialized testing and assessment services tailored to the unique needs of firefighting professionals. By partnering with Western Health & Safety Occupational Hygienists, fire departments can proactively address PFAS contamination concerns and prioritize the safety of their personnel.
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Contact Western Health & Safety Occupational Hygienists today to learn more about our firefighter-focused PFAS testing and assessment services. Together, we can ensure the safety and resilience of our firefighting community in the face of PFAS contamination risks.

Resources:

• NIOSH - Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)
• NIST - Wear and Tear Cause Firefighter Gear to Release More 'Forever Chemicals"
• US EPA - PFAS Analytical Methods Development and Sampling Research
• Agency on Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR): PFAS and Your Health
• ATSDR: Toxic Substances Portal – Perfluoroalkyls
• US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): PFOS, PFOA, and other PFASs
• International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC): Perfluorooctanoic Acid
• Interstate Technology and Regulatory Council (ITRC): PFAS
• Michigan PFAS Action Response Team (MPART): Firefighting Foams 
• C8 Science Panel
• National Toxicology Program (NTP): Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances
• NIST: Measurement Science of Per- and Polyfluorinated Alkylated Substances (PFAS)