Newly released documents indicate that Transport Canada was aware of the dangers posed by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals," as far back as 1984. These chemicals, found in aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) used in firefighter training exercises at airports, have been linked to various health issues, including liver and prostate cancer, and pregnancy-induced hypertension.
For decades, Transport Canada, along with the Department of National Defence (DND) and the National Research Council of Canada, utilized AFFF in training exercises, effectively combating jet fuel fires. However, this practice led to the contamination of groundwater with PFAS at numerous sites across the country. The documents, obtained through access to information requests, highlight a 1984 report commissioned by Transport Canada that studied the impacts of effluent from firefighter training sites, revealing the "extremely high" toxicity.
Alex Templeton, a lawyer leading a proposed class-action lawsuit regarding water contamination near Newfoundland airports, stated the 1984 report demonstrated the federal government's awareness of the significant environmental impact of AFFF. He argues that despite this knowledge, insufficient action was taken to mitigate the impacts experienced by residents. The lawsuit's lead plaintiffs, Eddie and Susan Sheerr, discovered their wells significantly exceeded Health Canada's new drinking water guidelines for PFAS.
Transport Canada has acknowledged the issue and states that they are taking steps to address PFAS contamination at airport properties. These steps include increased sampling to understand contamination and potential risks, providing potable water where drinking water objectives are exceeded, and developing management plans to minimize risks. The government has also proposed a multi-phase risk management approach for PFAS, focusing on phasing out their use in firefighting foams.
