The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has completed initial PFAS residential bore testing in Narromine as part of the EPA’s voluntary opt-in Bore Water Screening Program that supports local councils.
Town water supply is safe to drink.
Of 15 private residential bores tested by EPA officers in May, 13 had either no PFAS or PFAS below the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG).
Two bores on neighbouring properties had PFAS detected in bore water above the relevant ADWG value and the EPA has provided precautionary advice directly to those residents.
All residents who opted-in for testing have been sent their individual results and information.
The EPA will now look into the extent and nature of PFAS in the area where it was detected and will be in contact with nearby residents in the coming days to offer additional voluntary targeted sampling.
NSW Health recommends that people do not use bore water for drinking, cooking and personal hygiene (including cleaning teeth and bathing) without testing and appropriate treatment.
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.
The EPA’s bore testing program is designed to support councils identify possible sources of PFAS, and support longer-term efforts to ensure the town water supply meets drinking water guidelines.
NSW Health guidance on use of bore water: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/water/Pages/groundwater.aspx
EPA information about PFAS: https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/Your-environment/Chemicals/PFAS-in-NSW
Contact details:
EPA MEDIA | EMMA PETERSEN | 0413 906 251
24-hour Media Line (02) 9995 6415 [email protected]
