B.C. firefighters want the province to phase out the cancer-causing so-called ‘forever chemicals’ found in personal protective gear and foam.
The bill would phase out polyfluoroalkyl substances found in personal protective gear and foam. Research from the United States has linked PFAS with various types of cancer with manufacturers facing legal actions. The bill calls on the provincial government to develop province-wide gear regulations that would include phasing out PFAS.
“In my experience…smaller services have a much more difficult job in convincing local governments, regional districts, improvements services because of just tight budgeting,” he said. “So by setting a provincial standard, we are ensuring that whether you are pressed into action in a rural community in British Columbia or in downtown Vancouver, every firefighter gets the same level of protection.”