PFAS at Botany Industrial Park
In 2016 the Botany Industrial Park (BIP) companies participated in the state-wide program being undertaken by the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) to better understand the historical use of PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances) containing fire-fighting foams and the extent of any resulting on-site and off-site contamination.
In late 2016 the BIP companies compiled and shared with the EPA information on historical and current uses of PFAS-containing fire-fighting foams at BIP. Subsequent testing conducted by the BIP companies has confirmed the presence of PFAS in some of the limited groundwater, surface water and sediment samples taken on site and off site.
The preliminary results indicate that contamination is at relatively low concentrations, however further testing will be undertaken to determine the extent of this contamination.
Groundwater and surface water at BIP are already managed for other contaminants. The BIP companies will continue to work with the EPA and relevant statutory authorities to confirm the existing controls in place at BIP are appropriate to protect the health and safety of employees, local residents and the local environment.
More information:
PFAS at Botany Industrial Park Q&A
About PFAS: http://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/mediainformation/pfasinvestigationfaqs.htm