Lawsuit for Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Government Remediation

Perfluoroalkyl and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, commonly known as PFAS, are a group of chemical compounds frequently used in industrial processes, manufacturing, and various household products. These substances are considered carcinogens, meaning they have the potential to cause cancer. If you or someone you care about has been exposed to PFAS due to pollution or negligence by government bodies, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit.

At Logue Law Group, our team represents clients suing government entities for exposure to PFAS and the resulting health consequences. Our skilled Pittsburgh DUI lawyer will guide you through the complexities of the legal process.

These harmful chemical compounds are increasingly found in both public and private water supplies across the nation due to extensive industrial use and manufacturing. Remediation is crucial, but the process is both extensive and expensive, which is why the government should be held responsible for managing it. A knowledgeable Pittsburgh criminal lawyer can help build a strong case for you.

The Use of PFAS

For major corporations like DuPont and 3M, PFAS represents a significant revenue stream. It is a critical component in products like stain repellents and is also used in creating water-resistant materials for the industrial sector, generating approximately $1 billion in annual revenue. Additionally, a secondary market exists where PFAS is used in lubricants, paints, spray-on coatings, and polishes, driving another $100 million in yearly sales.

PFAS is heavily utilized in the following manufacturing applications:

• Flame retardants
• Foam for fire extinguishers
• Pesticides
• Inks
• Hydraulic fluids for the automotive and aerospace industries
• Components for copiers and printers
• Medical devices
• Metal or chrome plating
• Non-stick cookware coatings
• Food packaging

An experienced Pittsburgh DUI lawyer from our group can help you understand your rights if you’ve been affected by contamination in Allegheny County.

Consequences on Health

The impact of PFAS on both humans and wildlife is devastating. As a known carcinogen, exposure can lead to severe health problems for any individual. It has been linked to testicular and kidney cancer. Beyond cancer, exposure to PFAS can cause a range of other health issues, including:

• High cholesterol
• Pre-eclampsia or toxemia, a dangerous complication during pregnancy
• Thyroid dysfunction
• Infertility
• Autoimmune diseases
• Mental impairment
• Developmental disabilities
• Blood disorders
• Ulcerative colitis

How PFAS Can Enter the Water Supply

The primary way PFAS enters the water supply is through its discharge in industrial waste. This waste contaminates rivers and streams and also seeps into the soil. When it rains, these substances can penetrate underground aquifers. Because PFAS is non-biodegradable, it can remain in the environment for an indefinite period.

PFAS is also a component of fire suppressant foams, industrial lubricants, and hydraulic fluids. Consequently, areas around industrial sites, fire training facilities, and military bases are highly vulnerable to contamination. For instance, water contamination was found at a former U.S. Air Force Base in Michigan. According to a report in the journal Environmental Research from August 2018, as many as six million Americans have been exposed to water contaminated with PFAS.

The cost of removing these substances from a water supply can exceed $1 million per year, placing a massive financial burden on any community. At Logue Law Group, we file lawsuits against government entities to ensure residents of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, have access to contamination-free water, free, confidential consultation by calling 412-387-6901 our Pittsburgh criminal lawyer today to discuss your case.