San Francisco Fire Department Phases Out PFAS in Protective Gear

San Francisco’s Fire Department is set to become the largest in the U.S. to eliminate PFAS “forever chemicals” from its firefighting gear. PFAS, used for water- and oil-resistant PPE, are linked to cancer, cardiovascular disease, and birth defects. With cancer now the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths among firefighters, the move aims to safeguard personnel health.

Following a 2024 citywide PFAS ban, the department has received the first shipments of new, flame-resistant, PFAS-free gear and expects 1,100 sets for all frontline firefighters by month-end. The switch is made possible by a non-PFAS moisture barrier developed by Milliken & Company and manufactured by Fire-Dex, funded through a $2.35 million FEMA grant with SFFD matching funds.

Statewide, California banned PFAS in firefighting PPE under AB 1881, while other cities and states, including Providence and Massachusetts, are transitioning to safer alternatives. Fire Chief Dean Crispen emphasized that protecting firefighters strengthens both workforce safety and public health.

19-12-2025