Decades of service, decades of exposure: Battalion chiefs and legal claims for AFFF-related cancer

There is a significant increase in AFFF-related cancer in battalion chiefs whose exposure to contaminated environments on the front line and in supervisory positions has been historically high. Throughout their careers as frontline firefighters, battalion chiefs routinely used AFFF during fuel fires, chemical fires, and training. AFFF contains PFAS (perfluoroalkyl substances), a persistent chemical linked to serious health risks, including cancer. Firefighters are exposed to increased levels of exposure when handling hazardous materials, applying foam, maintaining equipment, and handling AFFF residues in close proximity.

Their PFAS exposure continues after promotion to battalion chief:

• Training grounds where AFFF is demonstrated or was historically used
• Fire stations where PFAS-contaminated gear, foam containers, and equipment are stored
• Incident command roles at major fires, fuel spills, or aircraft rescue operations involving AFFF deployment
• Administrative oversight of AFFF inventory, usage logs, and disposal involving indirect handling or presence during foam testing or cleanup

The presence of PFAS contamination in station dust and on the surfaces of firefighting gear has been shown to persist for months after foam has been used. In an NIST study published in 2020, PFAS residue was detected at high levels in station dust and turnout gear, suggesting sources of exposure.

The cumulative exposure risk for battalion chiefs

The typical requirements to become a battalion chief are at least ten years' experience in firefighting and service in leadership positions such as captain or similar supervisory positions. It is clear that battalion chiefs have decades of hands-on experience and AFFF exposure. Early in their careers, most firefighters who advance to command positions have been exposed to AFFF in fuel and chemical fires.

There is a long biological half-life associated with PFAS chemicals, with PFOA remaining in the body for about two to four years and PFOS for about five years. Past exposure continues to contribute to the toxic burden even after promotion to administrative roles. There is epidemiological evidence that firefighters are at higher risk for kidney cancer, testicular cancer, liver cancer, prostate cancer, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma due to elevated levels of PFAS in their bodies.

The proximity of the chiefs to contaminated stations and their participation in training exercises or safety drills can expose them to hazardous materials, particularly if older foam stocks or contaminated gear are still available.

Legal options for battalion chiefs with AFFF-related cancer

Battalion chiefs diagnosed with cancers linked to AFFF exposure have multiple avenues for compensation. Many U.S. states include firefighter cancer presumptions covering cancers linked to PFAS exposure. As sworn firefighters, battalion chiefs generally qualify for these presumptions if they meet tenure and exposure criteria, making workers' compensation claims easier.

AFFF manufacturers such as DuPont, 3M, and Chemours are also susceptible to product liability suits. Battalion chiefs can make a compelling case with several types of evidence:

• Service records proving exposure to AFFF training and incidents
• Station or training ground documentation linking PFAS contamination to their battalion
• Medical records confirming cancer diagnoses consistent with known PFAS-linked illnesses
• Documentation of training programs using AFFF and duty rosters showing station visits and supervisory presence at contaminated sites
• Records of safety audits or foam inventory management, establishing indirect exposure

In their role as battalion chiefs, they enforce safety standards and inherit legacy contaminants from previous generations. The fact that they did not receive warnings about PFAS in AFFF and gear could be a result of systemic issues regarding hazard communication and protective policies.

ELG Law can help battalion chiefs pursue AFFF claims

In the event that a battalion chief has been exposed to AFFF during their firefighting career and later develops cancer associated with the AFFF, they have the right to hold the responsible parties accountable and to receive compensation. Although compensation cannot erase your suffering, it can ease the financial burden associated with your illness. The attorneys at ELG Law have filed numerous toxic exposure claims on behalf of victims of AFFF contamination. You can count on our AFFF lawyers to assist you with all types of environmental toxicity cases. Feel free to contact us if you would like a free consultation about your diagnosis and legal options.