3M Under Fire: Workers Exposed to Toxic Chemicals in Firefighting Foam, Lawsuits Expected
Are you a firefighter, airport worker, or military personnel exposed to toxic firefighting foam? You may be at risk.
For decades, Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) has been the go-to solution for extinguishing dangerous fuel-based fires. However, this seemingly life-saving product has a dark side. AFFF contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), synthetic chemicals known as “forever chemicals” because they persist in the environment and human body for extended periods. These chemicals have been linked to severe health complications, and workers exposed to AFFF are now filing lawsuits against manufacturers like 3M, alleging they knew about the dangers but failed to warn users.
The Hidden Dangers of AFFF: What You Need to Know
AFFF is effective in suppressing high-intensity fires by creating a barrier that prevents reignition. However, the PFAS chemicals it contains don’t break down naturally and can accumulate in human tissues for years, leading to chronic health effects. Military personnel, firefighters, and others who worked directly with AFFF faced repeated exposure through direct skin contact, inhalation, and potentially contaminated drinking water at military bases and training sites.
Who is at Risk?
- Firefighters (military and civilian)
- Military personnel
- Airport workers
- Chemical plant workers
- Residents living near contaminated sites (military bases, airports, industrial facilities)
Health Risks Associated with AFFF Exposure
Studies have linked prolonged contact with AFFF to an increased risk of developing several serious health conditions, including:
- Kidney cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Thyroid disease
- Liver damage
- Immune system disorders
- Ulcerative colitis
- Bladder cancer
- Breast cancer
- Hormonal imbalances
- Reproductive issues
Symptoms of AFFF Exposure
Individuals exposed to AFFF may experience a range of symptoms, including:
- Skin irritation (rashes, itchiness)
- Respiratory issues (coughing, wheezing, chest tightness)
- Gastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain)
- Headaches
- Hormonal disruptions
- Neurological effects
Legal Recourse: Understanding Your Options
If you have been exposed to AFFF and diagnosed with a related health condition, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the manufacturers of AFFF, such as 3M, DuPont, and Tyco Fire Products. These lawsuits allege that the companies knew about the risks associated with PFAS but failed to warn users adequately.
What can you recover?
Victims of AFFF exposure may be able to recover damages for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and lost earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Punitive damages (in some cases)
The AFFF Lawsuit: An Overview
Thousands of lawsuits have been filed against AFFF manufacturers, and these cases have been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the United States District Court for the District of South Carolina. As of December 2025, over 15,000 lawsuits are pending in the AFFF MDL, making it one of the largest MDLs in the country.
Key Developments in the AFFF Litigation
- Settlements: 3M has agreed to pay billions of dollars to settle claims related to PFAS contamination, including a settlement of over $10 billion with public water systems. Other companies, such as DuPont and Chemours, have also reached settlements in AFFF cases.
- Bellwether Trials: The court is preparing for bellwether trials, which are test trials that will help determine the value of AFFF cases. The first bellwether trial, which was set to focus on kidney cancer claims, has been delayed to address a surge in new filings.
- Evidence of Knowledge: Recent investigations have revealed that 3M knew about the dangers of PFAS in their firefighting foam products as early as the 1960s but continued to market the products as safe.
What to Do If You Have Been Exposed
- Seek Medical Attention: If you experience any symptoms associated with AFFF exposure, consult a doctor immediately.
- Document Your Exposure: Gather any records that can help establish your exposure to AFFF, such as employment records, military service records, and medical records.
- Consult with an Attorney: Contact an experienced attorney to discuss your legal options and determine if you are eligible to file a lawsuit.
The Fight for Justice
The AFFF litigation is ongoing, and it is expected that more lawsuits will be filed in the coming years. If you have been affected by AFFF exposure, it is essential to understand your rights and take action to protect your health and financial future.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options.