Answers to Questions

Environment Protection Authority

In reply to Dr McFETRIDGE (Morphett) (15 November 2016).

The Hon. J.J. SNELLING (Playford—Minister for Health, Minister for the Arts, Minister for Health Industries): I have been advised:

The department has held discussions with the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) to keep it informed of the unfolding national public health consensus associated with exposure to per-fluorinated alkyl substances.

The Department of Defence meets with the EPA monthly to provide updates on its Edinburgh assessment program. Defence has also held two community meetings and provides relevant updates on its website. The EPA has kept SA Health informed of the Edinburgh investigations.

The risk posed to residents surrounding Edinburgh Air Force base and Adelaide Airport from exposure to per-fluorinated alkyl substances is low and consistent with the general community in Australia.

The Environment Protection Authority advises that it has not undertaken any tests for per-fluorinated alkyl substances, perfluorooctane sulfonate perfluorooctanic acid contamination in runoff or groundwater around the Adelaide Airport.

The department recommends that all owners of bores have their water tested to ascertain fitness for purpose and, if contaminated with per-fluorinated alkyl substances, it not be used for drinking, showering and topping of swimming pools, but rather reticulated mains water be used for these purposes.