The Flanders Public Waste Agency (OVAM) recently commissioned a soil exploratory investigation on the presence of PFAS in Brussels 436, 9090 mi. Elevated PFAS values in groundwater were determined at different measurement points. Based on these measurements, the Welfare and Health Agency recommends that a number of no regrets measures be taken in the area around this site.
groundwater analyses
In June 2021, the Flemish government decided to map all locations with an increased risk of PFAS contamination. In the context of this inventory, a soil exploratory investigation specifically targeting PFAS was carried out at Brusselssteweg site 436, 9090 miles.
The measurement results showed that there is a clear indication of a serious contamination of groundwater with PFAS. Therefore, further soil investigation is needed.
Jan Verheyen, spokesperson for OVAM: “In this study, pollution is mapped further and it is examined whether pollution poses a danger to people and the environment. OVAM informs the person who is obligated to repair their obligation to conduct further investigations into the soil. If there is no person obligated to repair, OVAM will carry out the investigation itself.
Avoid exposure
Because of the increased PFAS values at this site, there is a risk of repeated exposure to the local population. The Agency for Health and Care therefore issues precautionary advice to limit exposure as much as possible.
Joris Munens, Spokesperson for Care and Health: “If you are exposed to PFAS, it will not immediately affect your health. But if you’re exposed to it for a long time, it can have long-term consequences. They are substances that we do not get rid of from the body and therefore accumulate. That is why we advise you to follow these tips carefully.
Scientific research into PFAS and its potential impact on health is still evolving. The agency can adjust measures based on new scientific insights and measurement results. The local government is aware of the results of this exploratory soil investigation and can view the full report. People who live in this area will receive a mail with more information
