NSW Rural Fire Services (RFS) is investigating the presence of per-and-poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination stemming from the historical use of fire-fighting foams at its Kemps Creek site.
PFAS was detected in soil, sediment, surface and groundwater. The detection of PFAS is not unexpected given the past use of PFAS-containing fire-fighting foams at the site. PFAS has also been used in many domestic and industrial products and background levels may be present from these other sources.
Residents of surrounding properties have been supplied with tailored precautionary dietary advice. This advice does not apply to the wider Kemps Creek community.
PFAS investigations at Kemps Creek have now concluded.
RFS is developing a Site Management Plan to identify practical and sustainable measures to reduce PFAS impacts at the site. The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) will continue to work collaboratively with RFS to finalise management options.
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