Independent testing confirms no detectable PFAS in Milliken firefighter turnout gear
Firefighter safety is being tested not only at the scene of a fire, but also at the molecular level. As fire departments nationwide face growing concerns about chemical exposure in protective gear, new independent testing results are drawing attention across the fire service industry. Independent laboratory testing has confirmed that Milliken & Company’s firefighter turnout gear fabric contains no detectable levels of PFAS, or Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances. The findings were confirmed by testing by third-party analytical firm Forever Analytical.
The voluntary testing initiative was prompted by increased awareness and health concerns about PFAS among fire departments across the United States and a deep review of protective clothing materials. Forever Analytical tested the materials for total fluorine, an indicator of PFAS, and bromine, a brominated flame retardant. The fluorine levels in the test were below the laboratory’s method detection limit, and the bromine in the sample was below the reporting limit of 100 parts per million (ppm).
PFAS are very effective at resisting heat, oil, and water, which is why they are used in many places. But the problem is that they persist in the environment, which is why PFAS are often called “forever chemicals,” and various scientific studies have linked them to some possible health risks. So there is growing concern about them now.
Firefighters are repeatedly exposed to fire smoke, combustion chemicals, and contaminated environments for professional reasons. Therefore, their risk is relatively high. That is why more attention is now being paid to the type of chemicals used in their turnout gear.
New laws have been passed in 18 states in the United States to recognize and limit the use of PFAS in protective clothing for firefighters by January 2026.
However, firefighters’ turnout gear must meet the standards set by the National Fire Protection Association, which includes the NFPA 1971 standard. These standards focus on heat protection, fire resistance, durability, and water or liquid resistance.
Milliken has been phasing out PFAS in its firefighting clothing since 2021. It now supplies PFAS-free materials to major turnout gear manufacturers across the country. It has even helped major fire departments, such as the San Francisco Fire Department and the East Providence Fire Department, transition to PFAS-free gear. The company decided to conduct this independent testing on its own initiative. Its goal is to provide safety committees and gear buyers with reliable, third-party verified information.
Fire service leaders are now looking at performance standards (i.e. fire, heat, and safety) for clothing, as well as new health risks and legal issues. So independent testing reports will play a big role in future firefighter clothing purchases.
Because in a profession where the main responsibility is to save human lives, the issue of safety is also important. Knowing how safe the materials used are is becoming a necessary and essential issue.
