Esquimalt, BC—Esquimalt council has approved the replacement of firefighters’ turnout gear in the name of health and safety. The new gear will be free of PFAS—a group of chemicals used in various industries due to their ability to resist heat, oil, stains, grease, and water.
The presence of PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) in firefighter turnout gear has become a significant health and safety concern for fire services worldwide. Known as "forever chemicals" because they persist in the environment and human body without breaking down, PFAS have been linked to cancer, hormone disruption, immune suppression, and other serious health effects.
In recent years, the BC Professional Fire Fighters Association (BCPFFA) and the Fire Chiefs Association of BC (FCABC) have worked together to address these risks. Studies reveal that PFAS are present in all three layers of firefighters’ turnout gear - the outer shell, moisture barrier, and thermal liner. These chemicals can leach or shed from the material over time, potentially exposing firefighters to PFAS through skin absorption, inhalation, or ingestion. Significantly, this exposure risk exists even before the gear is subjected to the high heat of a fire.
For many years, there were no viable PFAS-free turnout gear options that met the safety standards required for firefighter equipment. In mid-2024, however, PFAS-free certified turnout gear became available through major manufacturers. The Vancouver Fire Department was the first in BC to initiate PFAS-free gear replacement, with several other municipalities working towards similar goals.
“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. “Choosing to support this motion as an easy decision for council and we are happy to support Esquimalt Fire Rescue in this endeavour.”
“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.”
“This decision represents a pivotal step in safeguarding our fire fighters, a critical step to mitigating the alarming rise in occupational cancer within our profession, “ said Andrew Zado, President of the Esquimalt Fire Fighters Association. “By purchasing this new gear, council and staff have shown bold leadership and an unwavering commitment to our health and safety. We are profoundly grateful for their support and hope this decision helps set a standard for others to follow.”
On November 25, council voted unanimously to approve the replacement of firefighters’ primary turnout gear with PFAS-free alternatives through utilization of the existing 2024 fire department budget and $75,000 from the Township’s contingency account.
See the full discussion and staff report
-30-
