Los Angeles World Airports removes PFAS from firefighting fleet

Airports

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By Sky Industry News

Sep 26, 2024

Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) has completed a significant environmental and safety upgrade by removing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as "forever chemicals," from its Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) response fleet. This project, covering 14 ARFF trucks across both Los Angeles International Airport and Van Nuys Airport, is one of the largest transitions of its kind in the United States.

"This transition underscores our unwavering commitment to the safety of our operations and emergency response community, as well as our dedication to environmental stewardship," said John Ackerman, Chief Executive Officer at Los Angeles World Airports. "By taking this proactive step and collaborating with a deep bench of subject matter experts, from the remediation team to the Los Angeles Fire Department, we're setting a new standard for airports in California and across the nation."

The removal process employs advanced cleaning technology that reduces PFAS levels in ARFF trucks by over 99%, significantly minimizing potential exposure to these harmful chemicals for both firefighters and the environment.

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Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin M. Crowley commented, "This transition enhances our operational readiness while prioritizing the long-term health and safety of our firefighters. We're proud to be at the forefront of this important change in our industry, knowing that we're reducing the risk of PFAS exposure for our firefighters and our areas of responsibility that we serve."

LAWA partnered with TRS Group, Inc., known for their expertise in environmental remediation, to conduct the PFAS foam removal process using patented cleaning technology. Ocean Blue Environmental managed the proper handling and disposal of removed PFAS-containing materials.

Brett Trowbridge, president and CEO of TRS Group, Inc., stated: "LAWA's efforts are protecting the health and safety of firefighters, airport personnel, and the public and demonstrating their commitment to environmental protection. This project can serve as a model for the transition to F3 for other airports and facilities."

In addition to working with TRS Group, LAWA collaborated closely with Los Angeles Sanitation & Environment and Ocean Blue Environmental to ensure proper disposal of removed materials. Proper disposal is crucial in preventing these chemicals from entering soil and water systems, thereby protecting local ecosystems and public health.

LAWA's achievement follows similar efforts at other major airports like Seattle-Tacoma International Airport but stands out due to its scale and advanced methods used for PFAS removal from its ARFF fleet.

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