Carcinogen Exposure Risk

Wildfires expose wildland firefighters (WLFFs) to many different types of exposure hazards and risks, including carcinogens (substances that can cause cancer). Common exposures experienced during suppression and prescribed fire operations include smoke, dust, and ash. Additional carcinogenic exposures in the wildland fire environment include diesel exhaust, crystalline silica through work activities performed in ash and soil, asbestos, and radionuclides in certain geographic areas, heavy metals, and sunlight. WLFFs can be exposed to these hazards through inhaling, ingesting, and absorbing through the skin or mucous membranes.

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In 2022, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) determined that “occupational exposure” as a firefighter was classified as “carcinogenic to humans” based on “sufficient” evidence for cancer in humans. This evaluation considered exposure and health studies from structural and wildland firefighters. The magnitude and frequency of exposure to carcinogens in the wildland environment vary, and traditional exposure reduction methods may be difficult to implement. Current recommended mitigation strategies to reduce exposure to carcinogens include:

Reduce exposure to dermal hazards

• Implement hygiene practices for yourself and your gear and equipment.
• “Cold trail” only to the extent of what is needed to secure your area.
• When possible, shower or use a “bath-in-a-bag” to remove residual soot/ash from the skin.
• Wear clean clothing and when possible, wash your clothing, often. If unable to launder, exchange clothing when on incidents. Clean high-touch surfaces in vehicles and workplaces.
• Protect your skin from sun exposure. Apply sunscreen to sun-exposed areas (following manufacturer’s instructions).

Reduce exposure to inhalation and ingestion hazards

• Establish mop-up criteria that allow resources to secure their area based on fire behavior, fuels, and topography.
• Rotate fire personnel in and out of areas with high unavoidable smoke exposure.
• Use air resource advisors to monitor and address smoke concerns at fire camps.
• Locate Incident Command Posts (ICPs) and remote camps where the least smoke impact is practicable.
• When provided, use the ventilated sleeping trailers.

WLFFs and incident management personnel prioritize health and safety, however, it is important to note that not all mitigation strategies will be applicable in all settings. Understanding your risk and implementing mitigation options where and when possible, may reduce your overall exposure.

Discussion Question:

• What are specific ways you can minimize your exposure in various work scenarios? Think through shifts when you experienced exposure to carcinogenic hazards and implemented strategies to reduce your risk.