PFAS problem at fire training area

In 2022, the cantonal authorities requested that the owner of a site in Uster, which is used among other things as a fire training area, carry out PFAS investigations. Per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances, abbreviated to PFAS, are a new group of pollutants to be considered in Switzerland when dealing with contaminated sites. The first stages of the legal investigation of the contaminated site revealed elevated PFAS concentrations. The contamination affects the soil, groundwater and surface water in some places. As the phased replacement construction of the two fire houses was planned at the site at the same time, waste law investigations (including the building fabric) were also carried out in parallel with the investigations under contaminated sites legislation. Ecosens AG supported the client in the approval process, in the tendering of contractors and carried out the specialist construction management of contaminated sites. Due to the partial lack of a legal basis for PFAS, close contact with the authorities and good communication were the key to success.