For most maritime workers, AFFF was only part of the job, but if you've been exposed to it while working at sea, what you do next matters. The foam used in emergency situations and drills at sea contains PFAS connected to life-altering health conditions, and many seamen are only now learning that their daily work environment may have put them at risk.
This guide breaks down the exact steps seamen should take after alleged AFFF exposure - from documenting the location and manner of exposure, to seeking medical evaluation. This is your go-to AFFF exposure guide for seamen.
1. Recognize the exposure
Before filing a claim, you should link your work history to AFFF. Based on maritime practices, exposure often happens in several scenarios:
- Firefighting drills: If you were part of an emergency response team, or participated in weekly fire drills where foam was deployed.
- System testing: Maintenance or accidental discharge of AFFF in various areas
- Direct handling: Pumping, mixing, or transferring containers of AFFF concentrate without adequate safety gear.
- Cleanup jobs: Using mops or hoses to clean up foam residue after a drill or leak - PFAS can be absorbed through the skin or inhaled.
2. Document your health
Once you've determined possible exposure, your top priority is medical diagnosis and blood testing. PFAS remain in the body for decades; you need objective proof of their presence:
- Request specific PFAS blood work: A routine medical check-up won't show this. You must specifically ask for a PFAS panel.
- Watch your symptoms: If you notice unexplained fatigue, nodules, or digestive problems, act immediately. Document them and tell your doctor about any potential exposure to AFFF. This will ensure that your medical record reflects potential workplace exposure.
- Link your symptoms to scientific data: If you have been diagnosed with any of the eligible medical conditions, your exposure history is of utmost importance.
3. Document the exposure
Under the Jones Act, you must prove the vessel was "unseaworthy." Start collecting what evidence you can:
- Documentation: Information such as the ship's unique identifier, safety data sheets, and your service dates.
- Brand names: Note any commercial names of the foam or chemicals used on the ship that you remember - like 3M Light Water.
- Witnesses: Crewmates who can confirm that fam was used without proper protective gear, or stored carelessly.
- Photos & videos: Any images with fire drills, foam storage, or onboard PPE.
- Medical records: Notes from doctors who document symptoms or PFAS tests.
- Ship logs and drill reports: Official records that mention foam use.
- Personal notes: Logs you kept of drills, spills, or incidents.
ELG Law can help you with the Jones Act claim process
If your maritime career at sea has led you to a linkable diagnosis, don't settle for minimal relief. The maritime claims process is complex, but we are specialists in demonstrating employer responsibility to obtain for you the full damages you are entitled to. A lawyer can assist you in evaluating your employment history and determining what evidence you may use to claim damages under the Jones Act.