Esquimalt council has unanimously approved the replacement of firefighters’ turnout gear with PFAS-free alternatives to prioritize health and safety.
According to the Township of Esquimalt, this decision is aimed at mitigating risks associated with PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances), also known as “forever chemicals.”
PFAS are linked to cancer, hormone disruption, and immune suppression and were previously unavoidable in firefighter gear due to safety standard limitations.
The funding for the replacement will utilize the existing 2024 fire department budget and $75,000 from the Township’s contingency account.
PFAS have been a longstanding concern for fire services worldwide due to their presence in all three layers of turnout gear.
Studies indicate that these chemicals can leach over time, exposing firefighters through skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion, even before gear encounters fire conditions.
“Fighting fires already has inherent risks—the gear firefighters wear should not add to the dangers of the job,” said Councillor and Acting Mayor Andrea Boardman, emphasizing the council’s commitment to firefighter safety.
The Vancouver Fire Department initiated the PFAS-free gear replacement earlier in 2024, paving the way for other municipalities like Esquimalt to follow.
The BC Professional Fire Fighters Association and the Fire Chiefs Association of BC have been vocal advocates for PFAS-free alternatives, citing occupational cancer as a growing concern in the profession.
EFRS Fire Chief Matt Furlot supported the decision, stating: “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.”
Local firefighter representatives echoed this sentiment, expressing gratitude for the council’s leadership in reducing health risks.
The Esquimalt council’s decision reflects a broader shift towards safer firefighter equipment.
With PFAS-free turnout gear now meeting necessary safety standards, municipalities can better protect their teams from hazardous exposure.
“This decision represents a critical step to mitigating the alarming rise in occupational cancer within our profession,” said Andrew Zado, President of the Esquimalt Fire Fighters Association.
Esquimalt hopes this move encourages other municipalities to adopt similar measures, aligning with broader efforts to protect firefighter health.
Esquimalt council has approved replacing firefighters’ turnout gear with PFAS-free alternatives to address health risks associated with “forever chemicals.”
PFAS, present in all layers of firefighter gear, are linked to cancer and other health issues.
Funding for the replacement will come from the 2024 fire department budget and $75,000 from the Township’s contingency account.
Local firefighter representatives and officials have praised this move, emphasizing its importance in reducing occupational cancer risks.
This aligns with similar initiatives across British Columbia, highlighting a shift toward safer equipment for firefighters.
