Blog
October 16, 2024
By: Hayden Hughes, Senior Sales Manager
Every day with little to no hesitation, firefighters rush into danger to save lives and protect property. As they face the perils of flames and smoke, their turnout gear is their first line of defense. The gear, designed to protect firefighters, can pose significant health risks if not cared for properly. The conversation, data, and concern around firefighter turnout gear and cancer are intensified as the firefighting community becomes more educated about the presence of PFAS (Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances) chemicals in their protective clothing.
PFAS, or per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, are a group of man-made chemicals found in various products, including firefighting foam and turnout gear. Known for their ability to resist heat, oil, stains, grease, and water, PFAS chemicals have been linked to cancer, among other health issues. These ‘forever chemicals’ are found in firefighter gear subject to routine wear and tear.
Starting in 2021, the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) conducted extensive testing on firefighter gear to evaluate the presence and potential risks of PFAS. The findings confirmed the unsettling reality that toxic chemicals, including PFAS, are present in the protective gear. This revelation has sparked a much-needed discussion about the hidden dangers firefighters face, beyond the immediate threats of fire and smoke.
Exposure to carcinogens doesn’t stop at PFAS. Firefighters are also regularly exposed to other toxic chemicals released during the combustion of modern building materials and household items. These include benzene, formaldehyde, asbestos, and soot, which are recognized carcinogens. When combined with the PFAS chemicals in their gear, firefighters’ cancer risk increases significantly during their daily life on the job.
Cancer Risk for Firefighters: By the Numbers
The role of a firefighter is fraught with dangers and more research is highlighting the insidious threat of cancer within the profession. The unsettling numbers reveal a disturbing trend: firefighters are significantly more likely to be diagnosed with certain types of cancer than the general population.
A comprehensive study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) found that firefighters have a 9% increase in cancer diagnoses and a 14% increase in cancer-related deaths. These figures only scratch the surface of the issue. When diving deeper into specific cancers, the statistics become more alarming.
- Firefighters are twice as likely to develop testicular cancer
- Multiple myeloma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma rates are elevated by 50%
- Skin and prostate cancers show a 28% and 24% increase in risk, respectively
- A significant 129% higher risk of mesothelioma, cancer caused by asbestos exposure, which firefighters can encounter in older buildings
The prevalence of respiratory, digestive, and urinary system cancers is also notably higher among firefighters. This can be attributed to the inhalation and absorption of carcinogens found in smoke, soot, and the very gear designed to protect them. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified shift work, which disrupts the circadian rhythm, as a probable carcinogen. This aspect of the firefighting profession may further contribute to cancer risk due to the disruption of biological processes.
The reality of these numbers has been a rallying cry for change within fire departments across the globe. It’s not just the risk of acute injury from flames or structural collapse that firefighters must guard against, but also the insidious, long-term threat of cancer from their cumulative exposure to carcinogens.
These statistics highlight the need for improved protective gear and decontamination processes and the importance of regular health screenings and cancer prevention strategies as integral components of a firefighter’s occupational health and safety program. Fire departments are encouraged to keep meticulous records of exposures and support their personnel in monitoring their health over time with medical screenings tailored to the risks they face.
By understanding the magnitude of cancer risk for firefighters, the firefighting community can continue to take the necessary steps to mitigate these dangers and protect those who dedicate their lives to protecting the public. This includes investing in research, embracing new technologies, and advocating for policies prioritizing firefighters’ health and safety, ensuring they can continue their vital work with the confidence that their well-being is safeguarded.
What is Being Done to Address the Issue of Increased Risk of Cancer?
In response to the growing concern over cancer and firefighters, efforts are underway to phase out PFAS in turnout gear. Manufacturers are researching and developing new materials that provide the same level of protection without toxic chemicals. These advancements aim to safeguard firefighters’ health by eliminating PFAS from the outer shell and moisture barriers of their protective gear.
As the industry moves towards PFAS-free solutions, fire departments evaluate their current gear and procedures to better protect firefighters. This includes looking into safer alternatives for firefighting foam and adopting stricter decontamination protocols after exposure to fire-related toxins.
Research into the long-term health impacts of firefighting and the role of protective gear is ongoing. As we learn more, fire departments need to stay informed and adapt their practices accordingly. This includes not only the gear itself but also the protocols around its use, such as proper donning and doffing procedures, regular gear inspections, and advanced cleaning techniques.
The Importance of CO2 Bunker Gear Cleaning
As we navigate the transition to PFAS-free turnout gear, it’s crucial to address the existing equipment and how to maintain it to minimize health risks. This is where ETD brings its specialty to the table: CO2 cleaning technology. Unlike traditional laundering methods, CO2 cleaning uses liquid carbon dioxide in a high-pressure system to penetrate and remove contaminants from turnout gear to undetectable levels.
CO2 cleaning is gentle on fabrics, helping to extend the lifespan of the gear, and, most importantly, it’s more effective at removing toxic residues, including PFAS chemicals. By adopting CO2 cleaning, fire departments can reduce firefighters’ exposure to carcinogens, thereby protecting firefighters’ health and ensuring their gear is free from harmful substances.
The Role of Fire Departments in Cancer Prevention
Fire departments have a responsibility to protect their members by implementing best practices for cancer prevention. This includes investing in CO2 cleaning solutions, providing comprehensive training on exposure risks, and ensuring access to regular health screenings. Additionally, fire departments can foster a culture of safety by encouraging behaviors that reduce the risk of cancer. This involves promoting the use of PPE, emphasizing hygiene practices such as showering immediately after fire suppression activities. The link between firefighter turnout gear and cancer is a pressing concern that demands action.
Emergency Technical Decon (ETD) is at the forefront of providing innovative solutions to safeguard the health of firefighters. With cutting-edge CO2 cleaning technology, ETD helps eliminate harmful carcinogens from turnout gear, ensuring firefighters are better protected from the risks associated with toxic chemical exposure, including PFAS. By offering the most advanced decontamination processes in the industry, ETD supports fire departments in their mission to prioritize the well-being of their crews, ultimately helping to reduce the long-term health risks firefighters face every day. Learn more about how ETD delivers the best solutions for keeping firefighters safe.
