2017 – Mines Rescue, Lithgow (New South Wales)

Mines Rescue Lithgow

https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/your-environment/contaminated-land/pfas-investigation-program/pfas-investigation-sites/mines-rescue-lithgow

Mines Rescue Services (MRS) is investigating potential per-and-poly-fluroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination stemming from the historical use of fire-fighting foams at its Lithgow site.

Investigations have found PFAS in surface and groundwater at the Lithgow site. 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.

MRS is conducting further testing to determine whether there are any potential impacts for the local community. Due to properties being connected to reticulated water (town water), exposure to PFAS is considered to be limited. The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) and MRS will keep the local community informed of any developments.