New research highlights the dangers firefighters face from their own protective gear due to PFAS exposure, emphasizing the urgent need for safer alternatives. In short:Recent studies reveal that firefighters' turnout gear releases more PFAS, harmful chemicals linked to various health issues, as it ages. Efforts are underway to develop PFAS-free protective gear, although finding materials that offer equivalent protection is challenging. Exposure to PFAS is associated with significant health risks, including cancer, which is notably higher among firefighters compared to the general population. — Rick Davis, NIST chemistWhy this matters:The very gear that offers protection against fire could be a source of long-term health risks due to PFAS chemicals.

Source: Washington Post March 11, 2024 17:46 UTC