Londonderry TestSafe and Fire and Rescue NSW

SafeWork NSW has investigated legacy PFAS contamination associated with the TestSafe Australia facility in Londonderry.

Investigations identified PFAS in soil, surface water and groundwater at the facility. The detection of PFAS is not unexpected given the past use of PFAS-containing fire-fighting foams at the site.

To understand potential impacts on the surrounding community, the EPA surveyed neighbouring properties about their water use and collected soil and surface water samples from Rickabys Creek and its tributary for PFAS testing.

SafeWork NSW has undertaken remediation works and continues to manage the facility to reduce PFAS leaving the site. This includes removal of impacted sediments, treatment of onsite surface water and ongoing environmental monitoring.

Guidance for residents

Based on the results of the investigations:

  • Residents living along Rickabys Creek tributary whose livestock drink water from the creek should avoid consuming eggs, milk and home-slaughtered meat from those animals.
  • Some residents living along Rickabys Creek have been provided with tailored precautionary dietary advice to minimise their potential exposure to PFAS. This advice applies only to those properties. 
  • All residents living along Rickabys Creek should not use creek water for drinking or other domestic purposes. Regardless of PFAS, NSW Health recommends that people do not use surface water from creeks for drinking, cooking, or personal hygiene (including cleaning teeth and bathing) without testing and appropriate treatment.
  • For other residents in wider Londonderry, no additional precautions are required based on current information.
  • Residents are connected to town water, which is safe to use.

PFAS in the environment

PFAS is common in our environment, and most people are exposed to small amounts through everyday household and industrial items such as packaging, cookware and personal care products.

Finding PFAS in the environment does not necessarily mean there is a human health risk but it is important to assess if there are exposure pathways through which people might ingest PFAS, such as drinking contaminated groundwater or consuming food grown with contaminated water.

Next steps

SafeWork NSW will continue to manage the TestSafe Australia facility and undertake ongoing PFAS monitoring.

The EPA plans to revisit some properties where tailored precautionary dietary advice has previously been provided to ensure this advice remains current and appropriate.

More information