Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) Exposure and Contamination Litigation
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Sbaiti & Company is actively pursuing legal action against manufacturers of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF), such as 3M and DuPont, for knowingly exposing individuals and the environment to toxic chemicals. AFFF, a firefighting foam widely used by military personnel, firefighters, and workers in high-hazard industries, contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals.” These substances have been linked to numerous health issues, including several types of cancer, and are known to persist in the environment for decades. AFFF exposure and contamination litigation plaintiffs include firefighters, military personnel, chemical plant workers, and communities.
Sbaiti & Company is committed to holding corporations accountable for endangering public health and the environment. We have deep experience and a successful track record representing those harmed by toxic chemicals.
What is AFFF?
Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) is used to extinguish fires caused by flammable liquids such as oil, gasoline, and jet fuel. Its ability to quickly suppress large-scale fires made it the standard choice for decades for military bases, airports, fire departments, and chemical plants.
However, the PFAS chemicals in AFFF have been linked to serious adverse health effects, including but not limited to:
- Kidney cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Immune system suppression
- Pancreatic cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Thyroid and metabolic disorders
Despite growing evidence that the PFAS chemicals within AFFF pose long-term health risks and environmental damage, these foams were used extensively. Today, AFFF is being phased out or banned in many areas, but its toxic legacy continues.
PFAS: The “Forever Chemicals”
PFAS are man-made, long-lasting synthetic chemicals that take decades to break down in the environment and the human body. Due to their ability to persist almost indefinitely, PFAS have earned the nickname “forever chemicals.”
Even after being phased out, many work sites continue to store and use AFFF containing PFAS, resulting in continued exposure risks for firefighters, military personnel, and workers in high-hazard environments. PFAS contamination has polluted groundwater and drinking water sources in numerous communities across the U.S., such as areas surrounding military bases and chemical manufacturing plants.
Potential Plaintiffs in AFFF Litigation
Workers and communities directly exposed to AFFF firefighting foam are at the highest risk of developing serious adverse health effects. These include but are not limited to:
- Firefighters: Regular exposure during fire suppression training and actual fire events.
- Military personnel: Servicemembers stationed on bases where AFFF was used routinely in training exercises and emergency response.
- Chemical plant workers: Exposure in facilities using AFFF to mitigate industrial fires.
- Communities near contaminated sites: People who have been exposed to PFAS-contaminated water sources because of AFFF use in their region.
Companies Responsible for AFFF Contamination
Several major corporations are facing lawsuits for manufacturing and distributing AFFF containing PFAS despite being aware of its toxic effects. These companies include but are not limited to:
- 3M
- BASF
- DuPont
- Tyco
Over a dozen other companies are also being held accountable for supplying AFFF to fire departments, military bases, airports, and industrial facilities across the country.
Why Sbaiti & Company
Sbaiti & Company, a boutique law firm with offices in Texas and New Jersey, focuses on significant mass tort litigation and appeals. Our team comprises seasoned lawyers who have previously practiced at larger firms but now prefer the agility and personalized service that a boutique environment offers. Based in Dallas, our reach extends nationally and internationally, allowing us to serve clients effectively wherever they may be.
Clients choose Sbaiti & Company because of our track record of success and dedication to delivering tailored legal strategies. With experience representing plaintiffs across various areas, we offer a comprehensive understanding of complex litigation dynamics. Whether stepping in to resolve contentious matters, navigating trials, or handling post-trial appeals, our team is committed to achieving favorable outcomes for our clients. We prioritize clear communication, rapid responses to client concerns, and meticulous research and analysis, ensuring that our legal counsel is informed, strategic, and aligned with our clients’ objectives.
Related Cases
Sources
Olsen et al. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in American Red Cross adult blood donors, 2000–2015 (3M sponsored study)
EPA Key Actions to Address PFAS
EPA PFAS Explained
Practice Areas
Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) Exposure and Contamination Litigation
Business Advisory and Outside General Counsel
Business & Commercial Disputes
Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Litigation
Catastrophic Injury & Wrongful Death
Construction Litigation
Creditor’s Right & Post-Judgment Collections
Director & Officer Defense
GLP-1 RA Litigation (e.g., Ozempic, Wegovy)
Human Trafficking Litigation
Investor & Securities Litigation
Patent & Intellectual Property Litigation
PCB Exposure and Contamination Litigation
PFAS “Forever Chemicals” Litigation
Roundup Exposure Litigation
Shareholder & Derivative Litigation
Suboxone Tooth Decay Litigation
Whistleblower & False Claims Act (FCA) Litigation
