Quincy Moves to Replace Firefighter Gear After Chemical Danger Found

Quincy City Council Approves $2.65 Million to Replace Firefighter Gear

The city council has approved a $2.65 million plan to purchase new protective clothing for its 270 firefighters after tests revealed that their current gear contains harmful PFAS chemicals—often called “forever chemicals” because they do not break down in the body and can raise cancer risks.

• Background
• Firefighters have worn the suspect equipment for six years, starting with a purchase in 2019 that was believed to be PFAS‑free.
• Community leaders and the local firefighters’ union highlighted cases of cancer, Parkinson’s disease, and ALS among crew members.

• Decision Rationale
• The cost of new gear is far smaller than the health damage caused by continuing to use contaminated clothing.
• The council initially delayed the vote to assess how long PFAS‑free gear would last and whether it was truly safer.

• After discussions, they agreed that the new equipment is necessary to protect firefighters from added chemical exposure while on duty.

• State Support
• In August 2024, state law now bars the sale of gear containing PFAS to Massachusetts fire departments.
• This legislation supports Quincy’s effort and aims to prevent future incidents of contaminated gear across the state.