Non-destructive surface sampling of PFAS exposure on firefighter protective gears: Potential implications for occupational exposure

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of anthropogenic pollutants that pose significant global environmental and health challenges. While PFAS exposure occurs through various pathways, occupational exposure among firefighters is particularly concerning. This study introduces a non-invasive, and non-destructive sample collection protocol using textile wipes to assess PFAS on firefighter safety gear and potential health issues. Dampened polypropylene fabrics were used to swab 12 firefighter turnout gear sets, including jacket shoulders, pant shins, inside and outside of SCBA masks, then extracted with methanol and analyzed for 30 different PFAS using LC-MS/MS. The mean sum of PFAS concentrations (∑PFAS) on firefighter turnout gear was 62.4 ng/g (8.3-332 ng/g), whereas 6:2 FTS was the predominant PFAS with a mean concentration of 38 ng/g (0.16-284 ng/g). Inside SCBA masks, the mean ∑PFAS was 26 ng/g, while 6:2 FTS was found at 15 ng/g. Other major PFAS observed in turnout gears were PFOA, PFHxA, PFBA, and PFPeA, which reflects the chemical composition of the foam firefighters are exposed to. A significant difference in PFAS exposure profiles was observed between body regions and SCBA masks. A Physiologically Based ToxicoKinetic (PBTK) model was applied to estimate plasma levels of PFAS, revealing concentrations indicative of potential occupational risk among firefighters and warranting further investigation.