Across the country, firefighters are learning that the same protective gear designed to keep them safe may also be putting them at risk. Recent studies have revealed that firefighter turnout gear often contains PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) a class of man-made “forever chemicals” linked to cancer and other long-term health issues.
At Breit Biniazan, we are representing firefighters and their families who have suffered due to PFAS exposure. While our firm is currently pursuing high-profile cases in Virginia, we are accepting firefighter PFAS cases. Every firefighter deserves to understand these risks - and to know their legal rights.
PFAS are a family of thousands of synthetic chemicals used for their resistance to heat, oil, and water. These same properties make them durable and long-lasting—but also extremely persistent in the human body and environment.
Turnout gear manufacturers have used PFAS for decades in the outer shell and moisture barrier of protective clothing. The chemicals help gear repel water, fuel, and heat, but that protection comes at a cost. When PFAS leach from gear or firefighting foams, they can enter the body through:
Once in the body, PFAS chemicals do not easily break down. Over time, they can accumulate and cause significant health problems.
Firefighters are already known to have higher cancer rates than the general population. Now, research suggests that PFAS exposure could be one of the key contributing factors. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to:
Recent studies have even shown that PFAS can alter genetic markers, potentially increasing susceptibility to disease. These findings are alarming for firefighters who wear PFAS-treated gear daily, often without realizing the risks.
From coast to coast, firefighters - both career and volunteer - are testing positive for elevated PFAS levels. Multiple studies have confirmed that firefighters have higher PFAS concentrations in their blood than the general population.
Examples include:
PFAS exposure doesn’t just come from turnout gear. Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), a firefighting foam once used widely in training and emergencies—also contains PFAS. Even newer “short-chain” PFAS used in updated formulations have proven to persist in the body.
As awareness grows, so does the demand for accountability. Firefighters across the country are now filing lawsuits against turnout gear manufacturers, foam producers, and chemical companies for failing to warn about PFAS-related health risks.
Our firm, Breit Biniazan, is actively representing firefighters and families in PFAS toxic tort cases. These lawsuits allege that manufacturers knew the risks of PFAS exposure but failed to disclose them, leaving firefighters vulnerable to life-threatening illnesses. If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with cancer or another illness potentially linked to PFAS exposure, you may be eligible to take legal action.
While industry standards are beginning to change, many firefighters continue to wear PFAS-treated gear daily. Awareness and proactive steps can make a difference:
At Breit Biniazan, we are here to help firefighters nationwide navigate their legal rights. Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you owe nothing unless we win your case.
With over $2 billion recovered for clients facing catastrophic losses, Breit Biniazan has built a reputation for relentless advocacy and compassion. We fight to protect those who protect us - firefighters, first responders, and families affected by corporate negligence.
We believe that your past does not define your future. If you’ve been exposed to PFAS, we can help you take back control, seek compensation, and hold those responsible accountable.
Firefighters across the U.S. are stepping forward to demand answers—and justice—for PFAS contamination. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer or another illness linked to PFAS exposure, you don’t have to face it alone.
Contact Breit Biniazan today for a free, confidential consultation. Our team is currently reviewing firefighter PFAS cases and is ready to help you understand your rights, your options, and your path to justice.
