AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit: PFAS Exposure & Legal Claims
What is AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit?
If you or a loved one has been exposed to AFFF (Aqueous Film-Forming Foam), you may be eligible to pursue compensation. The AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit addresses health risks linked to PFAS chemicals found in these foams, commonly used by firefighters, military personnel, and industrial workers.
The AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit is a series of legal claims brought against manufacturers of firefighting foam containing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These lawsuits allege that companies failed to warn users about the chemical’s long-term health risks, including cancer and other serious illnesses.
Litigation typically involves claims of personal injury, occupational exposure, and environmental contamination, allowing affected individuals to seek financial compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
What is AFFF Firefighting Foam?
AFFF (Aqueous Film-Forming Foam) is a chemical firefighting agent used to suppress flammable liquid fires quickly. Its effectiveness in extinguishing oil and fuel fires made it standard in airports, military bases, and industrial sites.
However, AFFF contains PFAS chemicals, which are highly persistent in the environment and human body, often called forever chemicals. Long-term exposure has been linked to serious health conditions, prompting lawsuits against manufacturers.
Who is Eligible to File a Claim?
Individuals eligible to file an AFFF lawsuit often include:
Firefighters regularly using AFFF foam in training or emergencies
Military personnel exposed to PFAS-contaminated water or foam
Industrial workers handling AFFF foam at chemical plants or airports
Residents near sites contaminated by AFFF foam
Even if exposure occurred years ago, individuals may still be able to pursue claims, depending on the statute of limitations in their state
Health Risks from AFFF Firefighting Foam & PFAS Exposure
Exposure to AFFF firefighting foam has been linked to serious and lasting health problems, affecting both physical well-being and daily life. Victims often face long-term medical treatment and ongoing health challenges.
Health risks of AFFF firefighting foam:
01 - Cancers
Increased risk of kidney, testicular, bladder, and other cancers due to toxic chemical exposure.
02 - Hormonal Disruption
Chemicals in AFFF can interfere with thyroid function and hormone regulation.
03 - Fertility Problems
Exposure may reduce fertility in both men and women.
04 - Immunity Affects
Long-term contact can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to illness.
05 - Gastrointestinal Issues
Chronic exposure has been linked to nausea, diarrhea, and more.
06 - Liver Damage
The foam’s chemicals can impair liver function, leading to long-term organ complications.
Common Sources of AFFF Exposure: Firefighters and Industrial Sites
AFFF exposure is common in:
Firefighting training exercises where foam is frequently used
Airports and military bases with fire suppression systems
Industrial facilities using AFFF for fire safety
Contaminated water sources near foam storage or usage areas
AFFF Lawsuit Updates: Current Legal Proceedings
Massive MDL growth
The AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 2873) centralized in federal court in South Carolina now includes 15,200+ active personal‑injury claims brought by firefighters, military personnel, industrial workers, and affected communities alleging PFAS exposure harms.
Bellwether trial changes
A bellwether trial that had been scheduled for October 2025 was postponed, allowing more cases to be filed and standardized for trial preparation. The court continues to adjust the schedule for expert testimony and causation evidence before setting new trial dates.
Science and discovery focus
In mid‑2025, the court held a Science Day session to strengthen the scientific foundations for linking PFAS exposure to illnesses like thyroid and liver cancer, which will influence admissibility of expert evidence.
Public‑water system settlements
Although individual personal‑injury settlements are still in progress, large deals with public water systems have already been finalized, including a 3M water supplier settlement worth over $10 billion and other multi‑hundred‑million‑dollar agreements with DuPont/Chemours. These don’t directly compensate individual claimants but shape the broader litigation landscape.
Ongoing filings and momentum
Filings continue steadily as new personal injury claims are added to the MDL. Plaintiffs’ attorneys are focused on completing case proofs and expert disclosure ahead of future settlement talks or trial settings.
Finding the Right Lawyer for Your AFFF Lawsuit
Choosing an experienced AFFF lawsuit attorney is crucial for maximizing compensation. Look for lawyers who:
Specialize in chemical exposure and PFAS litigation
Have a proven track record in MDL or class-action cases .
Offer free consultations and contingency-based fees
Provide guidance on documentation and medical evidence
Settlements & Compensation in AFFF Firefighting Foam Cases
Exposure to AFFF firefighting foam can lead to serious health complications and financial strain due to medical bills, lost wages, and emotional stress. Many affected individuals wonder what types of compensation they may be entitled to.
Types of compensation you can seek:
Medical Expenses
Coverage for past, current, and future treatment related to AFFF exposure.
Lost Wages
Compensation for income lost due to illness or inability to work.
Pain and Suffering
Damages for physical discomfort, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
Disability Benefits
For permanent or long-term impairments caused by exposure.
Wrongful Death Claims
If a loved one passed away due to illnesses linked to AFFF exposure.
Environmental and Cleanup Costs
In some cases, reimbursement for property or environmental damage.
How to File a AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit with Connect2Attorney?
Connect2Attorney guides you through the process of filing a AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit against the responsible party, in just three simple steps:
Submit a Free Case Review
Share details about your situation so we can understand your claim.
Confirm Eligibility
Our legal team will review your case and let you know if you qualify.
Sign Agreement
If eligible, sign a legal agreement. Your attorney will handle all legal formalities.
AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Timeline
2026First Half
January
As of January 2026, the AFFF firefighting foam MDL includes 15,213 pending cases out of a total of 19,788 filed claims.
Get Legal Support from Connect2Attorney
You don’t have to fight this battle alone. If AFFF firefighting foam has caused you cancer or any other health problem, Connect2Attorney can help you:
Any Questions? We Got You
Who is eligible for an AFFF firefighter foam lawsuit?
Military personnel, firefighters, airport staff, industrial workers, and contractors who were exposed to AFFF firefighting foam and later developed related health conditions may be eligible to file a claim.
What health issues are linked to AFFF exposure?
Exposure to AFFF has been linked to various cancers, thyroid disorders, liver damage, kidney disease, and other serious long-term health complications caused by PFAS chemicals.
How do I prove exposure to AFFF?
Proof may include medical records, military or employment records, workplace incident reports, environmental testing results, and other documentation showing exposure and related health impacts.
Can civilians file a lawsuit for AFFF exposure?
Yes, civilians such as residents living near military bases, airports, or industrial sites where AFFF was used may be eligible if they can demonstrate exposure and resulting health problems.
Is there a time limit to file an AFFF lawsuit?
Yes, each state has a statute of limitations that determines how long you have to file a claim. The timeline usually begins when you are diagnosed or discover the connection between your illness and AFFF exposure.
