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Bringelly Rural Fire Station


What is the situation at Bringelly?

Detailed PFAS investigations have commenced at Bringelly RFS at 5A Greendale Road, Bringelly 2556.

The NSW Environment Protection Authority (NSW EPA) is monitoring the progress of NSW RFS (RFS) PFAS site investigations at Bringelly.

Why is PFAS being investigated?

Foam containing PFAS was used in firefighting activities, such as fuel type fires and training, by some Rural Fire Brigades since 1975 for the protection of people and property.

RFS identified PFAS-containing firefighting foam might have been stored or used as part of fire training and operations at this location. As a precaution, the RFS is undertaking investigations to determine if PFAS from firefighting foam might still be present in the environment.

The presence of PFAS in the environment may not necessarily pose a risk to human health or the environment. There is currently no consistent evidence that exposure to PFOS and PFOA causes adverse human health effects (refer to NSW Health Site).

It is important to assess if there are any potential ways in which people might have contact with these chemicals.  The primary PFAS exposure pathways are through drinking water containing PFAS, or eating produce that was grown using water containing PFAS.  Local residents are connected to the town water supply, which is safe to use.

What testing is being undertaken?

A Detailed Site Investigation (DSI) was completed in 2022 by an independent environmental consultant on behalf of the NSW RFS to assess the extent of PFAS at the site and included sampling of soil, groundwater, surface water, and sediment.

A Human Health Risk Assessment (HHRA) was completed in 2023.

What were the results?

The DSI identified on-site and off-site soil samples were impacted by PFAS.

What happens Now?

RFS and the NSW EPA are currently reviewing the HHRA Report to determine if further works are required.

More information

Our commitment to you

We will work to keep you up to date on investigations.

Email pfas@rfs.nsw.gov.au for more information.

Information updated March 2024