Chemical Exposure
Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are human-made chemicals found in many products, including firefighting foams like Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), used by civilian and military firefighters. Often called “forever” chemicals, they do not break down in the environment.
Who qualifies?
Although contamination is believed to be widespread, those with the greatest concentrations of exposure include those who worked with the substances as part of their military occupational specialties, firefighters or servicemembers who experienced exposure to AFFF after 1960, firefighters who routinely utilized AFFF or engaged in training exercises involving firefighting foams, and servicemembers who employed AFFF for training, fire suppression, life-saving efforts and property protection.