WOS 002 – Firefighter Cancer Risks & Prevention

Summary

WatsON Safety Episode 2: Firefighter Cancer Risks and Prevention. Presenters: Emma Richardson (QFD / FCFA) and Steve Bunny, Founder & Director, FCFA. Aired April 30, 2026. ABOUT THE FCFA: The Firefighters Cancer Foundation Australia (FCFA) is a nationally recognised charity founded in 2004, run entirely by unpaid volunteers, supporting all firefighter types (full-time, volunteer, auxiliary, mining, Defence Force) through education/advocacy and practical family support. CANCER RISK - THE SCIENCE: The WHO classifies firefighter occupational exposure as a Group 1 carcinogen. 99% of smoke particles from overhaul are under 1 micron and mostly invisible. Skin absorption of carcinogens increases 400% for every 5C rise in skin temperature. DECONTAMINATION: Shower within the hour using correct technique (tepid, then hot to open pores, thorough scrub, back to tepid). Never transport dirty PPC in personal vehicles. Launder PPC promptly with an empty rinse cycle after. Wipe cab interiors and the inside of helmets after every fire. HEALTH SCREENING: Firefighters should get annual GP checkups using an FCFA "Dear Doctor Letter" to request a baseline blood panel, since early detection matters most. PRESUMPTIVE LEGISLATION: Reverses the burden of proof so the employer must prove a listed cancer did NOT come from work. Qualification is based on a time-weighted average of years of service (5-25 years depending on cancer type), not number of fires attended. CALL TO ACTION: "Be the change you want to see." Stop using leaf blowers in engine bays. Shower within the hour. Change into clean clothes at the station. Wipe the cab. Book a GP visit with a Dear Doctor Letter. Introduce one new safety practice at your next brigade meeting.