Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, better known as PFAS, face increased attention as new scientific studies show that exposure can lead to adverse health effects. A family of synthetic chemicals that are heat-, water-, oil-, and grease-resistant and reduce friction, PFAS are deemed “forever chemicals” because they do not easily break down and accumulate over time in the environment and in the human body. Found in everyday products such as food packaging, stain, water- and grease-resistant materials, and nonstick cookware, as well as being present on virtually all military bases and airports, the prevalence of PFAS, combined with the public’s heightened awareness and the attention of the plaintiffs’ bar, makes manufacturers and distributors of these products, as well as entities involved in waste disposal, prime targets for litigation and regulation. Recent studies have found that PFAS-containing water supplies have affected as many as 110 million people in the United States. These findings coupled with the escalating volume of costly litigation and calls for increased regulation present a threat to a wide array of sectors, including aviation, apparel, automotive, building/construction, chemical, consumer products, electronics, energy, healthcare, oil and gas, paper/pulp, pharmaceuticals and hospitals, plastics, semiconductors, textiles, and leather.

At the forefront of the scientific, legal, and regulatory developments involving PFAS, Akerman regularly works with clients to analyze and evaluate PFAS liabilities and exposures. We help clients prevent future claims through identification, assessment, and mitigation of risks, as well as ensuring compliance with all applicable government and regulatory standards.