AN investigation into the presence of PFAS at Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School in Tarro has found the contamination "is not connected to people or the environment and therefore does not pose a risk", according to Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW).
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However, it said, a human health and ecological risk assessment (HHERA) and further sampling will be done to "address data gaps that will inform proposed future vegetable gardens, a school kitchen and raising chickens".
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It said the investigation also recommended the concentration of PFAS in soil be reduced, "as a precautionary measure to minimise the potential for offsite migration", through works during holidays that could include excavation of soil and construction of a containment cell.
FRNSW engaged environmental consultants Nation Partners in September to lead an investigation, after it became aware firefighting foam containing PFAS was used in training activities on land that became part of the school in 2014.
FRNSW distributed a fact sheet to families before the end of term about Nation Partners' 641 page detailed site investigation report, published this month. An information session was also held.
"PFAS was detected in soil, surface water (storm water) and groundwater samples," FRNSW wrote.
"Concentrations at some locations exceeded human health and ecological guidelines...consequently, a site-specific risk assessment was undertaken.
"The results indicate that risks to people from exposure to PFAS, via incidental ingestion of soils (including dust) are low and acceptable."
FRNSW wrote while further assessment into surface water and groundwater hadn't been undertaken, PFAS in the water wasn't "considered to pose a direct risk of exposure" because surface water isn't used for drinking and access to the drainage system is limited, plus groundwater isn't consumed or used.
It said samples from rainwater tanks and produce being grown "were below the laboratory limit of reporting" for primary PFAS compounds of interest.
FRNSW wrote the investigation "indicated that a number of exposure pathways are incomplete" and "contamination... therefore does not pose a risk."
It said until the HHERA, it was recommended "normal management practices" be implemented including ensuring children aren't playing underneath buildings and wash hands before eating.
Normal management practices were also recommended for current construction works.
FRNSW wrote PFAS was "likely to be migrating offsite" via water and "further investigation is required".
It said it would research on recommendation of the EPA options to reduce PFAS concentration in soil, including excavation; onsite containment or offsite disposal; construction of a containment cell and/or placement of clean fill; and surface reinstatement.
"The management options are still being assessed and could include some or a combination of the above."
An EPA spokesperson said it's "working with FRNSW to implement the recommendations and management actions".
Helen Gregory
Helen Gregory joined the Newcastle Herald in 2010. She is the masthead’s education reporter and has written for the H2 and Weekender sections, as well as across a range of issues. Helen is a Walkley Award winning journalist and was also part of the Newcastle Herald team that won the United Nations World Environment Day Media Award for Environmental Reporting.
Helen Gregory joined the Newcastle Herald in 2010. She is the masthead’s education reporter and has written for the H2 and Weekender sections, as well as across a range of issues. Helen is a Walkley Award winning journalist and was also part of the Newcastle Herald team that won the United Nations World Environment Day Media Award for Environmental Reporting.
