We have a pretty good idea of where PFAS can be found at Schiphol. We have been checking for PFAS in the ground during work and construction projects since 2016 and we also know the locations of larger incidents (such as an aircraft landing next to the runway) and the (former) training grounds where PFAS-containing firefighting foam was used. However, to make sure that we have everything mapped out, we started additional in-depth investigations this summer.
We are conducting historical research first, including incidents that took place in the past. If necessary, we will then do additional research in the field. We are also making an inventory of all the buildings on the Schiphol grounds. There are many dozens of them and there are several questions to be answered. For example, are there still extinguishers somewhere that contain PFAS? We are bringing everything into focus.
We are conducting these studies because we want to know exactly where we stand with the PFAS contamination at Schiphol. Then, based on this data and the guidelines for PFAS, we can determine the risks and determine whether we need to take measures.
Because ‘to measure is to know’, we have also started water measurements on the Schiphol site. In the coming months we will take samples several times and have them examined. We expect the research to be completed in June 2025. We will then report the conclusions on this website.
During our inspections in late August, we noted that there was (minor) damage in several places to the foil that covers PFAS-containing soil. We made a thorough inventory and then carried out repairs at all storage sites. We discovered that the damage was caused by animals, such as birds and rodents. We repaired the damage with tape and applied new material and soil cover where needed.