Toxics in firefighting

What does the legislation include?

Firefighting foam training ban

After July 1, 2018, use of PFAS-containing Class B firefighting foam for training is prohibited across Washington State. There are no exceptions in the law for training. 

Firefighting foam sales ban

After July 1, 2020, the manufacture, sale, and distribution of PFAS-containing Class B firefighting foam will be prohibited. There are four exemptions to this prohibition: military, Federal Aviation Administration certified airports, petroleum refineries and terminals, and certain chemical plants.

Firefighting personal protective equipment (PPE) notice

After July 1, 2018, manufacturers and sellers of PFAS-containing firefighting PPE must notify purchasers in writing if the equipment contains PFAS chemicals and the reasons for using the chemicals. The manufacturer, seller, and purchaser must keep the notice on file for at least three years, and provide it to Ecology if requested.

Definitions

• Class B firefighting foam means foams designed for flammable liquid fires.
• Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS, for the purposes of firefighting agents and firefighting equipment, means a class of fluorinated organic chemicals containing at least one fully fluorinated carbon atom.
• Firefighting PPE means any clothing designed, intended, or marketed to be worn by firefighting  personnel in the performance of their duties, designed with the intent for the use in fire and rescue activities, including jackets, pants, shoes, gloves, helmets, and respiratory equipment.

Frequently asked questions