HAVE YOU SUFFERED HEALTH PROBLEMS OR ILLNESSES AFTER BEING EXPOSED TO TOXIC CHEMICALS?
You May Be Entitled To Substantial Compensation
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TOXIC EXPOSURES
FIREFIGHTER TURNOUT GEAR PFAS LAWSUITS
Levy Konigsberg is investigating claims that firefighters have developed serious illnesses due to exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in their protective turnout gear.
Firefighter turnout gear — the protective jackets and pants worn on the job — has been found to contain PFAS, a class of synthetic chemicals linked to cancer, liver damage, decreased fertility, and thyroid disease. PFAS are used in turnout gear to meet water and oil resistance standards set by the National Fire Protection Association, but studies have shown that the chemicals can be released from the gear during normal use, increasing firefighters’ exposure over time.
If you or a loved one has been harmed by PFAS exposure, contact us today.
WERE YOU EXPOSED TO TOXIC CHEMICALS AND DEVELOPED HEALTH ISSUES?
PFAS Exposure from Firefighter Turnout Gear
- In March 2024, researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology released findings showing that PFAS in firefighter turnout gear is released in greater quantities when the gear is subjected to wear and tear, heat, abrasion, and weathering.
Abrasion caused PFAS concentrations to increase by 213%, while simulated weathering caused a 177% increase.
Researchers identified 51 different PFAS compounds across 21 fabric samples representing all three layers of turnout gear — including the thermal layer worn closest to firefighters’ skin.
According to a National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health study of 30,000 firefighters, cancer is a leading cause of death for firefighters, who have a 14% higher chance of dying from cancer than the general population,
- In January 2024, the National Institute of Standards and Technology published a follow-up study confirming that more than 20 types of PFAS may be present in firefighter turnout gear and that simulated wear and tear increases the measurable amount of PFAS released from the textiles.
The study found that PFAS concentrations were highest in the outer shell fabrics treated with water-repellent coatings, but were also detected in the moisture barrier and thermal layers.
- In May 2023, the U.S. Fire Administration reported on a National Institute of Standards and Technology study finding that PFAS levels in firefighter turnout gear vary widely between manufacturers and layers, with the highest concentrations observed in the two outermost layers of protective jackets and pants.
- In January 2023, the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) announced it had retained law firms to pursue claims on behalf of firefighters harmed by PFAS exposure in their turnout gear, demand replacement of all gear with PFAS-free alternatives, and seek to change the regulatory standards.
The IAFF stated that cancer is the number one killer of firefighters and that corporate interests have prioritized profits over firefighter safety.
We handle toxic chemical exposure lawsuits against large companies that put people at risk, including those whose hazardous substances caused serious health problems.
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Questions Families Ask Us
Who can file a PFAS firefighter turnout gear lawsuit?
You may have grounds to file a legal claim if:
- You worked as a firefighter and were regularly exposed to PFAS-containing turnout gear
- You have been diagnosed with cancer or another serious illness linked to PFAS exposure
- You are a surviving family member of a firefighter who developed cancer linked to PFAS exposure
You may still have a claim even if:
- Your employer provided the gear
- You were never diagnosed with cancer during your service
What evidence can support a PFAS turnout gear claim?
The evidence obtained in filing a lawsuit may include records documenting your years as a firefighter, medical records confirming your diagnosis, and records identifying the specific gear you used.The litigation team at Levy Konigsberg, after taking on your case, takes action to obtain and preserve all relevant evidence, and move forward with a claim or lawsuit.
Who manufactured PFAS-containing turnout gear?
Several manufacturers have produced firefighter turnout gear containing PFAS. Levy Konigsberg is actively investigating claims against manufacturers who sold protective equipment containing toxic forever chemicals without adequately warning firefighters of the associated health risks.
Trust Levy Konigsberg's Legal Team for Proven Results in Toxic Chemical Exposure Cases
Levy Konigsberg LLP, a nationally recognized law firm, has built a legacy over three decades, billions in compensation for its clients. Led by award-winning attorneys, we specialize in representing individuals across the country who have suffered severe health complications from harmful chemicals (including Roundup) and harmful medications (including Depo-Provera). Our top-rated trial practice handles complex cases involving drug companies and negligent manufacturers, with numerous testimonials and successful case results.