PFAS in the Workplace Could be Making People Sick

You might be hearing a lot in the news lately about "forever chemicals," also known as PFAS or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. These synthetic chemicals have been used in consumer products and industrial processes since the 1940s. They can migrate into soil, water and air, and they remain in the environment indefinitely, which is why they have the "forever" label. Unfortunately, evidence of PFAS has been found in people’s and animals’ blood all over the world. It’s everywhere. 

While none of us can avoid PFAS, some occupations are more at risk for exposure than others. PFAS isn’t a single chemical; it’s a category that includes thousands of chemicals used for industrial processes. Many of these are involved in products that make things slick, nonstick or waterproof. 

Before scientists discovered the dangers of PFAS, companies would dump these chemicals directly into the natural environment. This led to contamination of drinking water in many locations in the US, and consumer products release the chemicals into our food and various surfaces in our homes. We can’t necessarily avoid PFAS in our drinking water or consumer products, but people who work in some industries are at higher risk in the workplace.

What industries’ workers are at higher risk for PFAS or forever chemicals?

• Chemical manufacturing, or facilities that produce PFAS chemicals. Individuals who do this would be at the highest risk. 
• Active firefighters and their families could be at increased risk. 
• Workers who handle food packaging like fast food containers, pizza boxes, candy wrappers, etc. 
• Workers who have prolonged exposure to ski wax
• Automotive, construction, and cleaning industry workers might be exposed without proper regulations.
• Heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems might have PFAS in their gaskets and coating materials, along with fluorinated refrigerants, so workers in this industry could also be at high risk.

How do PFAS affect human health?

High PFAS in the bloodstream are linked to high cholesterol, cancer, and immune system disorders. 

Some studies have also found reproductive issues, developmental and behavioral issues for children, hormonal changes, liver problems, and other metabolic concerns. 

However, the risks are linked to the amount of exposure. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set a level of four parts per trillion for the amount of permissible PFAS in drinking water. The agency says that if your exposure is lower than that level, your health risks are low. People whose drinking water has more than four parts per trillion of PFAS are at higher risk for adverse health effects. 

Still, people who are exposed in the workplace because they produce PFAS chemicals, use products that contain a lot of PFAS and those who handle packaging or materials with high PFAS are at higher risk than most people who are consuming the chemicals in drinking water.

Can an employee prove their workplace exposure to PFAS caused their illness?

It’s possible, but not easy. 

If you believe you’ve been exposed to high levels of PFAS at work, you can have a blood test to determine the exact amount. This test isn’t offered by many hospitals or traditional blood labs, so you might have to look a little further for a provider of this service. You also might have to pay out of pocket if it’s not covered by your insurance. 

The problem is that even if your blood test shows high levels of PFAS, it could be very difficult (if not impossible) to prove that it’s linked to your work. 

But workers’ compensation is no-fault insurance and I don’t need to prove negligence, right?

Yes, this is true. If you have an accident at work, you don’t need to prove that it was caused by the negligence of your employer or anyone else. But you do need to prove that it happened AT work or while you were engaged in duties related to your job. 

Because people are routinely exposed to PFAS in their water, in the soil, air, clothes, and other consumer goods, drawing the link that your particular levels are connected to exposure at work might be difficult. The blood test can show your high levels, but it won’t show a specific source. 

This is when you need a lawyer to advocate on your behalf. Your lawyer can investigate the evidence, review with experts, and determine whether you can make a claim.

Can you reduce your risk of exposure to PFAS?

In your personal life, yes (meaning, outside of work). 

Food containers: Try to limit use of takeout containers and microwave popcorn. If you buy fast food, remove the food from the packaging and store it in a glass or stainless steel container. Never microwave food in grease-resistant packaging. Buy popcorn kernels and pop them in a pot on the stovetop rather than in the microwave. 

Cookware: Purchase stainless steel, cast iron, glass or ceramic cookware instead of non-stick. Or, if you prefer non-stick cookware, reduce the heat, don’t preheat, and don’t use it above 400 degrees. If the coating becomes scratched or chipped, replace it. 

Water: Check with the municipal agency that provides your water to see the level of PFAS. If it’s high, you can purchase an activated carbon filter or reverse osmosis membrane to remove the PFAS from your drinking supply. If you’re visiting a lake, river, stream or other natural body of water, wash your hands before touching food and don’t drink the water.

Household: Dust can be a source of PFAS, particularly for children who put things in their mouths. Avoid stain-resistant upholstery and carpets in your home.

What about reducing exposure to PFAS at work?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has not set limits on PFAS, including in the air.

However, some studies show that PFAS leave the body over time, mostly through urine or menstruation. Workers could be exposed by touching or swallowing PFAS-containing materials or by breathing in dust, aerosols or fumes.

If you work in an environment that requires handling or exposure to PFAS, you can contact your employer about providing proper personal protective equipment (PPE). If you believe you’ve already suffered effects from PFAS exposure at work, you can contact a workers’ compensation lawyer in your state for more information.