As outlined in the joint statement, the IAFF and Metro Chiefs recommend:
- Turnout gear should NOT be taken into firehouse living areas.
- When transporting gear in personal vehicles, it should be in a sealed container or bag, and preferably NOT transported in the passenger compartment.
- Apparatus cabs should be cleaned regularly and after every fire.
- Wash your hands after handling turnout gear.
- Legacy turnout gear should be replaced as new PFAS-free technologies become available.
- Do not wear turnout gear on responses where this level of protection is not necessary.*
The IAFF recommends all members document and report their exposures to PFAS through procedures in their respective fire departments and through personal documentation. In the event that a member develops an occupational illness related to PFAS, having appropriate documentation will be essential in demonstrating that the illness is job-connected. When developing this documentation, fire fighters should note all forms of exposure including turnout gear, use of PFAS-laden firefighting foam (both during training and active fire suppression operations) and working in stations where PFAS-laden firefighting foam is being stored.
Also, be conscious of possible non-occupational exposure sources through water/oil-resistant clothing, food packaging, Teflon® products, waxes and lubricants, water-proof make-up, and even dental floss.
If you engage in departmental or contractual negotiations for fire service purchase agreements and/or request for proposals, consider language that allows for an uninterrupted transition to PFAS-free items and/or product components, when they become available.
*Wearing all PPE and SCBA during firefighting, overhaul, and while working in smoke is still the best first line of defense when it comes to limiting exposures to fireground contaminants. Following any exposure to the products of combustion, all PPE should be cleaned in accordance with NFPA 1851 to reduce cross-contamination and further exposure.