The emerging health concerns over the impact of Per and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in firefighter turnout gear is being closely monitored by the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF). In our commitment to firefighter health and safety, we join with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association (Metro Chiefs) in encouraging firefighters to follow the guidelines outlined in the joint statement issued by the IAFF and Metro Chiefs. The NFFF also agrees that the elimination of PFAS (“forever chemicals”) in PPE and other firefighting equipment is important to the health and wellness of firefighters.
The NFFF urges all firefighters to reduce their exposure to PFAS in turnout gear by wearing turnout gear only when it is necessary for protection from thermal exposures while fighting fires or while in other environments immediately dangerous to life and health.
