Investigating PFAS contamination at firefighting training sites

Unravelling the extent of contamination

In 2021 Ramboll investigated the extent of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination in soil and groundwater from use of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) for three Danish firefighting training sites.

We prepared an investigation strategy for each site based on the historical use of the sites and use of AFFF. Subsequently investigations were carried out and contamination fingerprints were evaluated.

Based on data from sampling and analysis of soil and groundwater and samples of surface water, sediment and grass, the risk towards the environment and human health was assessed. Ramboll also identified and recommended site-specific remedial measures that can minimize the threat to the environment.

Challenging sampling

The investigations on two of the sites also contain sampling and analysis of grass from nearby meadows as experience from another Danish site has shown that cattle grazing on PFAS-impacted meadows may lead to elevated contents of PFAS in the cattle. This may pose a threat to human health via the ingestion of meat from these cattle.

Results that matter

The projects identified the major sources of PFAS contamination at the three sites and the subsequent environmental risks. This allowed for development of an actionable strategy for the sites and future remediation of the contamination.