Read the full article by Josh Gauntt (WBRC Fox 6 News)
“BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – It’s becoming more widely known that firefighters have an increased risk of getting certain cancers. New research shows the gear they wear could increase their risk as well. For years, WBRC’s Josh Gauntt has been following the impact its having on local firefighters. He recently spoke with Birmingham Fire and Rescue about the new studies and what they’re doing to keep first responders safe on the job.
When they get the call, Birmingham fire fighters suit up in a moment’s notice. They put on multiple layers of protection.
‘Unfortunately, it’s a necessary evil that we have to wear this gear. It’s what protects us when we go in these structure fires so we have to have it,’ Battalion Chief Clay Hendon with Birmingham Fire and Rescue said.
New studies show textiles used to make protective coats and pants often contain measurable amounts of potentially cancer-causing PFAS or ‘forever chemicals’ according to the National Institute of Standards and Technology.
A firefighters protective gear has three layers made up of different textiles: the outer shell, the moisture barrier and thermal barrier. The thermal barrier is the one closest to the firefighter’s body. According to the studies, it’s the wear and tear on this gear that can potentially release these forever chemicals.”…