PFAS lawsuit targets 3M as fire departments weigh safer gear

A new federal lawsuit in Minnesota is adding pressure on 3M and other companies over PFAS in firefighters’ protective gear.

Dozens of cities and fire departments across the country allege the companies sold gear with so-called forever chemicals without warning about the risks. 

They want the companies to pay for testing, removing and replacing all equipment now infused with PFAS.

Departments in St. Paul and elsewhere are already discussing a switch to PFAS-free gear. 

But the newer gear can cost more and only a limited number of manufacturers are selling it.

PFAS concerns

Turnout gear is designed to protect firefighters from heat and flames, but concerns are growing about PFAS chemicals in that gear.

“Nobody really wants to be intentionally exposing their people to PFAS, right? Because we know it’s a known carcinogen,” says Mike Dobesh...