Published by If you or a loved one experienced health issues due to PFAS contamination from Tyco fire suppression products, you may be entitled to pursue compensation. At Schmidt & Clark, we are dedicated to helping individuals who have suffered due to toxic chemical exposure. Our experienced legal team is here to guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Schmidt & Clark today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
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Table Of Contents
- Tyco Fire Lawsuit Overview
- Latest Tyco Fire Lawsuit Updates
- FDA Reports and Statistics
- What are Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances?
- Tyco Fire Injuries & Side Effects
- Do You Qualify for a Tyco Fire Lawsuit?
- Multidistrict Litigation
- Statute of Limitations for Tyco Fire Lawsuits
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims
- References
Tyco Fire Lawsuit Overview
The Tyco Fire lawsuit alleges that the company failed to prevent harmful per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from contaminating soil and water in Wisconsin communities. Tyco, a subsidiary of Johnson Controls, tested firefighting foam containing PFAS outdoors from 1962 until 2017, resulting in environmental contamination. The Wisconsin Department of Justice filed a lawsuit claiming Tyco knowingly violated state laws by failing to report and remediate the PFAS pollution.
Latest Tyco Fire Lawsuit Updates
May 31, 2022 – Eligible Class Members began receiving settlement payments. Members may receive multiple payment checks depending on the claims submitted. Payments are being issued on a rolling basis, with some Class Members receiving funds later as their claims are processed.
March 2022 – The Wisconsin Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Tyco Products alleging the company violated state laws by releasing PFAS into the environment in Marinette and Peshtigo, Wisconsin [1]. The lawsuit claimed Tyco knew about elevated PFAS levels in soil and water since 2013 but failed to notify the Department of Natural Resources until November 2017.
January 2021 – Residents in Peshtigo, Wisconsin won a $17.5 million class settlement from Tyco after being exposed to PFAS chemicals that contaminated private wells. Approximately 270 households received compensation, with $15 million allocated for property damage and personal harm, and $2.5 million specifically for those diagnosed with related diseases including testicular and kidney cancers.
FDA Reports and Statistics
The Tyco PFAS contamination case is among approximately 500 cases in a pending multi-district litigation (MDL) where plaintiffs allege injury through drinking water contaminated by film-forming foams at industrial sites, military installations, and airports [2].
Testing results from Tyco’s property revealed extremely elevated PFAS concentrations:
- Groundwater samples with concentrations up to 254,000 parts per trillion
- Soil samples with concentrations up to 122,000 parts per trillion
- Perfluorooctanoic acid concentrations exceeding 400 parts per trillion
- Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid concentrations exceeding 5,000 parts per trillion
According to the complaint, the testing resulted in a plume of PFOS water contamination around the Tyco property, of which the extent is unknown because of a lack of investigation from the company.
According to industry analysts, total PFAS liabilities could reach $30 billion in a “worst-case scenario” for the companies involved.
What are Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances — are a family of man-made chemicals used for their water- and stain-resistant qualities in products like clothing and carpet, nonstick cookware, packaging, and firefighting foam. The family includes 5,000 compounds, which are persistent, remaining both in the environment and the human body over time.
These chemicals have been linked to types of kidney and testicular cancers, lower birth weights, harm to immune and reproductive systems, altered hormone regulation, and altered thyroid hormones. The chemicals enter the human body largely through drinking water.
Related Article: PFAS Exposure Lawsuit Update
Tyco Fire Injuries & Side Effects
PFAS exposure from Tyco Fire products has been linked to numerous serious health conditions:
- Cancer: Kidney and testicular cancer have been strongly associated with PFAS exposure
- Organ Damage: Liver damage and thyroid disease
- Reproductive Issues: Decreased fertility and hormone suppression
- Metabolic Effects: High cholesterol and obesity
- Developmental Issues: Low birth weights in exposed mothers
“When companies contaminate our water, they must fully remediate the harm they’ve caused. Every Wisconsinite should be able to rely on the safety of the water they drink,” the complaint states. “The Wisconsin Department of Justice is committed to protecting the public and holding accountable those who endanger the health of Wisconsinites.”
The complaint further alleges that Tyco knew their property had elevated levels of forever chemical in soil and water in 2013 when the company had testing done after its plant in Germany was tested. The results of those tests showed concentrations of more than 400 parts per trillion of perfluorooctanoic acid and more than 5,000 parts per trillion of perfluorooctane sulfonic acid.
The highest concentration found in groundwater samples at the time was 254,000 parts per trillion and in sail was 122,000 parts per trillion, according to the lawsuit.
Do You Qualify for a Tyco Fire Lawsuit?
You may qualify for a Tyco Fire lawsuit if:
- You resided in an area with known Tyco PFAS contamination, particularly in Marinette or Peshtigo, Wisconsin
- Your private well tested positive for PFAS contamination
- You experienced health issues linked to PFAS exposure, including kidney or testicular cancer
- You can provide documentation of your residence in the affected area and medical records of related conditions
For Class Members who submitted well test documentation in support of their claim(s), please keep in mind that a “Well Test shall be measured in PPT of total PFOA and PFOS”. The Settlement Administrator has utilized PFOA and PFOS as the only 2 compounds that comprise “Total PFAS” when determining a Class Members’ qualification for appropriate settlement compensation.
Evidence Required for a Tyco Fire Lawsuit
To successfully pursue a Tyco Fire lawsuit, you will need to provide:
- Documentation proving residence in an affected area during the relevant time period
- Water testing results showing PFAS contamination in your well or water supply
- Medical records documenting related health conditions
- Evidence linking your health issues to PFAS exposure
Damages You Can Recover
In a successful Tyco Fire lawsuit, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses related to treatment of PFAS-linked conditions
- Property damage and decreased property value
- Pain and suffering resulting from exposure-related health issues
- Lost wages due to illness or medical treatment
- Punitive damages in cases of proven negligence
Multidistrict Litigation
The Tyco PFAS contamination settlement is among about 500 cases that make up a pending multi-district litigation (MDL) in which plaintiffs allege being injured through drinking water by film-forming foams at industrial and military sites as well as airports.
Corporations including DuPont, 3M Co., Chemguard Inc., Kidde-Fenwal Inc., National Foam Inc., and Dynax Corp. are now being sued, according to a Bloomberg Law analysis of more than 6,400 per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances-related lawsuits filed in federal courts between July 2005 and March 2022.
Related Articles:
The case is Campbell et al v. Tyco LP et al, U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina, No. 2:19-cv-00422.
Statute of Limitations for Tyco Fire Lawsuits
The statute of limitations for filing a Tyco Fire lawsuit varies by state but typically ranges from 2-6 years from the date of injury or discovery of injury. Wisconsin residents should be aware that the statute of limitations may begin from the date they discovered or reasonably should have discovered their PFAS exposure or related health conditions.
If you believe you may have a claim, it’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your legal rights are protected before the filing deadline expires.
Frequently Asked Questions
What health monitoring should I undergo if exposed to PFAS?
If exposed to PFAS, you should consult with a healthcare provider to discuss appropriate health monitoring, which may include regular blood tests to check PFAS levels, liver function tests, and monitoring for symptoms of related health conditions.
How can I mitigate exposure to PFAS in my home?
To mitigate exposure to PFAS in your home, use water filters certified to reduce PFAS levels, avoid products known to contain PFAS (such as certain non-stick cookware and stain-resistant fabrics), and follow any advisories issued by local health authorities.
What legal actions have been taken against Tyco Fire Products in the past?
Legal actions against Tyco Fire Products have included lawsuits filed by municipalities, states, and individuals seeking compensation for PFAS contamination, health impacts, and environmental cleanup costs.
How long will it take to receive compensation from a Tyco Fire lawsuit?
The timeline for receiving compensation varies based on the complexity of the case and whether it’s resolved through settlement or trial. Class action settlements like the one in Wisconsin have begun distributing payments, but individual cases may take 1-3 years to resolve.
Does everyone in an affected area qualify for compensation?
Not everyone in an affected area automatically qualifies for compensation. Eligibility typically depends on factors such as documented PFAS contamination in your water supply, proof of residence during the relevant time period, and evidence of related health issues or property damage.
See all related product liability lawsuits our lawyers covered so far.
Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims
Time is limited to pursue legal action for PFAS contamination. Most states have statutes of limitations that restrict how long you have to file a claim after discovering the contamination or related health issues.
Schmidt & Clark, LLP offers:
- Free, confidential case evaluations
- No upfront costs or attorney fees
- Payment only if we successfully recover compensation for you
Don’t delay – contact our experienced legal team today to understand your rights and options.