The presence of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) has been confirmed on and around the site of the former fire station in Aalst. This was revealed by a soil investigation initiated in 2024 following the transfer of the station from the city to Hulpverleningszone Zuid-Oost. A cleanup of the soil will be necessary in the future.
The results of the investigation, conducted by a soil expert, have been sent to the Openbare Vlaamse Afvalstoffenmaatschappij (OVAM) for validation and further advice. The city emphasizes that there is currently no acute danger to the public. Previously, the city had already taken precautionary measures, such as covering loose soil with bark around the site to prevent potential spread, and informing local residents.
Pending new guidelines from OVAM, the city requests visitors to the nearby cemetery to limit contact with loose soil, wear gloves when maintaining graves, and wash their hands after their visit. Cemetery staff are also following these guidelines and wearing protective clothing. Intensive maintenance of the cemetery will be limited to avoid dust development.
The Agentschap Zorg has confirmed that PFAS levels in the playground are below the threshold value for recreational areas (110 µg/kg dry matter). Children can continue to play there, but it is important to wash hands and clean shoes after playing.
The city is awaiting the final validation and advice from OVAM and will communicate these transparently. Information boards at both the cemetery and the playground remind visitors of the precautionary measures.
