Grenfell Firefighters Suffer Life Changing Health Effects Due to Toxic Smoke Inhalation

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06 January 2025

136 firefighters who were exposed to smoke at the Grenfell Tower fire are now living with diseases such as cancer and respiratory conditions.

The research, published in the Journal of Environmental and Occupational Medicine and carried out by the University of Central Lancashire and the Fire Brigades Union, analysed survey responses from 524 of the 628 firefighters who attended the fire. 

26 per cent reported adverse health outcomes, with many firefighters suffering from more than one health disorder. These include 66 cases of digestive diseases, 64 respiratory diseases, 22 neurological diseases, and 11 cancer diagnoses. 

Respiratory Protection Not Worn

The study also found that the majority of the firefighters surveyed had not worn respiratory protection at some point during the fire. 

Firefighters were exposed to smoke with gases and particulate matter at high levels due to the highly combustible materials used in the construction of the tower. Many firefighters experienced immediate symptoms including choking, difficulty breathing and vomiting. 

Unlike for firefighters who responded to the collapse of the World Trade Centre in 2001, there has been no life-long health monitoring programme for the firefighters and residents affected by the Grenfell Tower fire. 

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry was also not instructed to consider the health effects of the emergency responders, evacuees, or residents who live within the vicinity of the fire.

Professor Anna Stec, Author of the report and Professor in Fire Chemistry and Toxicity at the University of Central Lancashire said: 

“We know that firefighters are exposed to toxic contaminants in fire throughout their careers, and that preventative measures are needed to protect their health. Although it is not possible to definitively trace any disease back to a single incident, it is alarming that a high proportion of the firefighters who were exposed to very high smoke levels that night are now falling ill. 

“Given that firefighting is classified as a carcinogenic occupation by the World Health Organisation and is associated with higher mortalities from rare cancers, introducing regular health monitoring for UK firefighters is essential.” 

Picture: a photograph showing a banner which says "Grenfell Never Again". Image Credit: Adobe Stock

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 06 January 2025

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