Chemical Factory Fire – EPA Audit, Thornycroft Street
Client
Symal Infrastructure
status
Completed
location
Melbourne
industry
Custom
Project Scope
Scope of Works
Scaada Environmental & Sustainability was engaged to develop and implement a comprehensive Remediation Action Plan (RAP) following a significant chemical factory fire. The project involved soil, groundwater, surface water, and air quality assessments to ensure the site met EPA Victoria’s remediation standards. Scope items included underground storage tank (UST) removal, contamination validation, and staged remediation aligned with EPA Clean-Up Notice timelines and regulatory expectations.
Challenge
The site presented complex contamination challenges, including friable asbestos, hydrocarbons, metals, and PFAS. Multiple runoff pathways and open drains increased the risk of offsite migration, while existing underground infrastructure complicated excavation works. Strict EPA Victoria and Victoria Police oversight demanded fast-tracked progress and full regulatory transparency under tight deadlines.
Project Outcome
Solution
Scaada’s certified environmental consultants conducted grid-based and targeted sampling of soil, groundwater, and stormwater to accurately define the extent of contamination. Contaminated soils were excavated and disposed of offsite to EPA-approved facilities. USTs were removed and validated to standard, and a robust Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and Site Management Plan (SMP) were implemented. Surface water was controlled using an onsite treatment and sediment pond to prevent further discharge impacts. All field and reporting works were approved and signed off by an independent EPA environmental auditor.
Outcome
The validated, staged remediation approach ensured regulatory compliance, minimised site downtime, and achieved sign-off from an EPA auditor. Scaada’s data-driven remediation strategy delivered a safe, stable site ready for ongoing industrial use — a successful example of EPA-compliant contaminated land management in Victoria.
