Why Being PFAS-Free Matters: Protecting Firefighters From Hidden Dangers
Firefighters willingly step into dangerous situations every day—heat, smoke, collapsing structures, and unpredictable emergencies. But one of the greatest threats facing them isn’t always visible. It can be woven directly into the very gear they rely on for protection.
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are often called “forever chemicals.” For decades, they’ve been used in firefighting foams, moisture barriers, water-resistant clothing, and industrial products. But as awareness has grown, so has the understanding of how dangerous these chemicals really are.
At FILO Apparel, we believe that firefighters deserve gear that protects them—not exposes them to unnecessary risk. That’s why our apparel and uniforms are 100% PFAS-free. And in our first blog, we want to share why this commitment is so important.
What Are PFAS and Why Are They Harmful?
PFAS are a group of thousands of synthetic chemicals known for their resistance to heat, oil, and water. The problem?
They accumulate in the body, don’t break down naturally, and are linked to:
- Increased cancer risk
- Immune system suppression
- Hormonal disruption
- Reproductive issues
- Liver and kidney damage
For firefighters—who already face higher cancer rates due to on-the-job exposure—adding PFAS contamination through clothing or gear is unacceptable.
How PFAS End Up in Firefighter Gear
Many traditional firefighting garments and station wear have historically used PFAS-based treatments to make garments water-repellent or stain-resistant. Even moisture barriers in structural turnout gear often contain PFAS by design.
Research has shown that PFAS:
- Can migrate from gear to the skin
- Can contaminate fire stations, trucks, and personal laundry
- Can enter the bloodstream from repeated exposure
Firefighters deserve to know that the products they trust are not contributing to long-term health risks.
Why PFAS-Free Apparel Matters
Choosing PFAS-free apparel is about prevention and protection—on and off the fireground. PFAS-free station wear, undergarments, and uniforms help reduce exposure pathways that firefighters encounter daily.
PFAS-free matters because:
- Firefighters face enough risks—chemicals shouldn't be one of them.
- It supports cleaner stations and healthier firehouse environments.
- It reduces cumulative exposure over a 20- to 30-year career.
- It aligns with growing legislation and bans across states.
Most importantly, PFAS-free apparel empowers departments and individual firefighters to take control of their health.
Our Commitment to PFAS-Free Apparel
We created our PFAS-free firefighter apparel line to give firefighters a safer choice—without sacrificing performance, durability, or comfort. Every product is designed to support firefighter wellness from shift start to shift end.
In our company:
- We never use PFAS-based coatings or treatments
- We vet every material and supplier
- We follow emerging safety research closely
- We prioritize transparency in our manufacturing practices
- We remain committed to continuous innovation in chemical-safe apparel
- We are ISO 9001:2015 Certified
For us, being PFAS-free isn’t a marketing trend. It’s a mission.
The Future of Firefighter Wellness
Departments nationwide are adopting cancer-reduction initiatives, clean cab policies, and gear-cleaning standards. Eliminating PFAS from everyday apparel is the next critical step.
By raising awareness and offering PFAS-free options, we’re honored to play a role in improving firefighter health and safety for generations to come.
Thank You for Joining Us
This is just the beginning of our blog series focused on safer, smarter apparel solutions for the firefighter community. Thank you for joining us on our mission to protect those who protect us every day.
