Quincy Fire Department Replaces Gear with PFAS Free Equipment
Firefighters in Massachusetts receive new protective suits following a multi-million-dollar city investment and independent fabric testing.
- By Jesse Jacobs
- Jul 22, 2026
A local fire department has fully transitioned to non-PFAS turnout gear following an independent test that detected the chemicals in equipment previously believed to be fluorochemical-free.
The City of Quincy invested approximately $2.65 million to replace protective gear across the entire department. Under the replacement plan, every Quincy firefighter receives two complete sets of equipment. Having dual sets allows firefighters to rotate gear after responding to calls, facilitating proper cleaning and decontamination without leaving crews unprotected.
The procurement process began after testing requested by Quincy Firefighters IAFF Local 792 in August 2025 revealed the presence of PFAS in suits bought as early as 2019. In response, city leaders approved funding for replacement gear in March 2026, posting a $2,646,730 appropriation the following month.
The equipment was manufactured by Fire-Dex using three fabric layers developed by textile manufacturer Milliken & Company without PFAS chemistry. The layers include an outer shell, a thermal liner and a non-halogenated, flame-resistant moisture barrier introduced in late 2024. Independent testing performed by Forever Analytical screened all three fabric layers for total fluorine and detected no presence of the element.
The equipment transition arrives ahead of a state mandate. Massachusetts law will prohibit the sale or distribution of firefighter personal protective equipment containing intentionally added PFAS beginning Jan. 1, 2027. Disclosure requirements regarding protective gear composition took effect at the start of 2025.
About the Author
Jesse Jacobs is assistant editor of OHSOnline.com.