How AFFF exposure may have occurred
Repair Party Leaders coordinated damage control teams during shipboard emergencies and oversaw firefighting operations, fuel-fire response, damage control drills, and crew training. Exposure may have occurred during monitoring of AFFF application during fuel-fire training exercises, leading of damage control parties at shipboard fires, inspection or testing of foam suppression systems, and supervision of cleanup after foam discharge. Because naval crews trained on firefighting procedures regularly, some Repair Party Leaders may have had repeated contact with PFAS-containing foam over many years of service.
Occupational exposure is not limited to the person holding the hose. Those who directed firefighting operations or were present where AFFF was discharged may also have come into contact with PFAS-containing foam or contaminated equipment. Claims are reviewed based on what duties were performed, how frequently they involved firefighting or damage control, how long exposure lasted, and whether a qualifying cancer was eventually diagnosed. Records that can help include DD Form 214, military service records, duty assignments, damage control training records, ship assignment history, and statements from fellow service members.
ELG Law can review your service history and AFFF exposure
If your duties as a Repair Party Leader placed you in regular contact with AFFF and you have since been diagnosed with kidney cancer or testicular cancer, your damage control records and service history are worth reviewing. ELG Law has handled toxic exposure claims for over three decades. Contact us today and let our attorneys assess whether your case qualifies.