This week, Esquimalt town council approved the purchase of new firefighter gear which features no “forever chemicals” in the production of the gear.
‘Forever chemicals’ refers to the use of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), which are used in various industries such as firefighting because they are highly resistant to heat, oil, stains, grease and water.
The Township of Esquimalt says that the presence of PFAS has become a significant health concern for fire services around the globe as they have been linked to cancer, hormone disruption, immune suppression and other serious health afflictions.
Studies conducted by various BC firefighting advocacy groups have found the presence of PFAS in all layers of the typical firefighter’s turnout gear—in the outer shell, moisture barrier and thermal liner.
The reason PFAS has been deemed dangerous is because they do not break down, even once inside the human body and they can leach or shed from the gear’s material over time. This potentially exposes a firefighter to exposure through skin absorption, inhalation or ingestion.
The high heat of fire only exacerbates the leaching and shedding from the gear’s material.
The Township says that for a long while, there were no viable options for PFAS-free turnout gear.
However, in mid-2024, new PFAS-free turnout gear for firefighters became available through major manufacturers.
First, the Vancouver Fire Department attained PFAS-free gear, with many other municipalities following suit.
“I have witnessed far too many firefighters throughout my career diagnosed with occupational cancer, and I have attended far too many funerals as a result,” said EFRS Fire Chief Matt Furlot.
“By prioritizing PFAS-free turnout gear for Esquimalt Fire Rescue Services staff, Mayor and Council have taken a significant step in putting firefighter safety and well-being at the forefront. This decision not only protects our team but also sets an example for others to follow. It fills me with pride to see our department leading the way in this critical initiative.”
Council voted unanimously to acquire the PFAS-free gear on November 25th.
Funding for the new gear will come from utilizing the existing 2024 fire department budget, with an additional $75,000 from the Township’s contingency account.
