Contaminated Land
Land can become contaminated through the manufacture, use, storage and disposal of hazardous substances. While contamination is usually associated with industrial activities, the use of hazardous substances in agriculture and residential settings can also cause contamination.
Toi Te Ora’s health protection officers work closely with the territorial authorities to assess and manage contaminated sites in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes Districts. The territorial authorities keep a register of all known contaminated sites.
What to look for
People can become exposed to contaminants in soil through contact with the soil, soil ingestion, eating produce grown on contaminated land and drinking contaminated ground or surface water. If a contaminant is volatile, people may also be exposed by inhalation.
Health risks
The health risk associated with contaminated soil will depend on the type of hazardous substance, the exposure route and the length of time a person is exposed.
