Background

On 10 July 2024, a large fire occurred at a chemical factory at 118 Swann Drive, Derrimut. The fire burned for approximately 6 hours before being controlled by firefighters. The factory stored solvents. This produced volatile organic compound emissions during the fire. It also contaminated firewater that flowed from the site.

What we measured

This report provides an overview of the air and water quality monitoring during and after the fire. It assesses any human health risks associated with air and water quality, as well as risks to the aquatic environment.

What we found

Both air and water quality testing results found little or no risk of harm to nearby residents. Any localised impacts to waterways were short lived. Air quality during the fire posed a low risk to human health. This is due to the high temperature of the fire pushing the smoke plume to a high altitude, and wind conditions dispersing and diluting the smoke.

Water quality testing showed there was a low risk to human health through accidental ingestion, inhalation or skin contact.

Aquatic ecosystems in Laverton Creek were exposed to high levels of chemicals for less than 8 days. Dissolved oxygen levels were low for the first few days after the fire. While both of these can harm aquatic life, they quickly resolved. There were no reports or evidence of fish or wildlife deaths.

Only historical contamination of sediment was found, indicating a previous pollution event.