Port Pirie Soil Lead Concentrations Report

The 2013 Port Pirie Soil Lead Concentrations Report – prepared for the Port Pirie Regional Council confirms that after decades of smelting, the lead contamination in Port Pirie is widespread. While this study does not indicate any new risk to the local community, it reiterates the importance of actions the community takes to reduce exposure to lead.

The survey took samples from 353 sites from land including footpaths, nature strips and public parks. It was found that 20 per cent had lead concentrations higher than 600 parts per million which is the national Health Investigation Levels for public spaces - indicating these sites require further investigation which SA Health will assist local council with this work.

Further information

For further information on lead, including the Lead Implementation Program contact SA Health's Scientific Services on (08) 8226 7100.