PFAS, FIREFIGHTERS & PPE

Posted by Tony Thomas - August 28, 2024 4:54 PM

As you are well aware, there is genuine concern about PFAS and its negative impact on us doing our jobs. Massachusetts and Connecticut are the first two states in the US to ban the use of toxic PFAS “forever chemicals” in protective gear worn by Firefighters.

From the IAFF's General President Ed Kelly (full commentary link below)

"Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey recently signed a bill mandating the removal of PFAS from manufactured firefighter gear in Massachusetts. It is one of the most aggressive laws in the country, protecting firefighters by banning the sale of bunker gear with PFAS by January 2027. Beginning in 2025, it also requires the addition of a warning label so firefighters are better informed about the toxins in bunker gear."

"The IAFF and their affiliates, including the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts, have been leading the fight to remove PFAS from bunker gear. With this new law, Massachusetts has become one of only two states that will ban PFAS-laden firefighter gear."

This action is the latest positive & critical step in protecting Firefighters, in addition to:

-Not Breathing Smoke (In the bays, on the scene-the sh!t is poison)

-Cleaning Up (personally and your equipment) After Every Fire.

-Be conscientious about eating/drinking/exercise lifestyle stuff.

-Get Annual Physicals INCLUDING Cancer Screening

-Don't Breathe Smoke (Exhaust In the bays, smoke on the scene-it is fkn poison)

PLEASE REGISTER (Learn & Join the Nat'l Firefighter Registry for Cancer)

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/firefighters/registry.html

=READ The Full Editorial About PFAS From IAFF's GP Ed Kelly:

https://www.bostonglobe.com/2024/08/27/opinion/pfas-law-massachusetts-firefighters/

=SAFETY ADVISORY FOR FIREFIGHTERS:

https://www.iaff.org/pfas/pfas-advisory/