To understand how dangerous contaminated soil can be, it’s important to look at how it is assessed and regulated.
In Australia, contaminated land assessment is guided by the National Environment Protection (Assessment of Site Contamination) Measure 1999, amended in 2013, commonly known as the ASC NEPM. This framework sets out how contamination is identified, assessed, and managed.
The ASC NEPM provides the national framework for assessing site contamination, while contaminated land is regulated and enforced through state and territory legislation, EPA (Environment Protection Authority) requirements, and planning controls.
The way contaminated land is regulated reflects the level of risk it can pose when not properly managed.
In this blog, we will explain what makes contaminated soil dangerous and what it means for health, safety, and the environment.
Contaminated soil refers to soil that contains substances at levels that can cause a risk to health and the environment. Common contaminants found on Australian sites include:
In some cases, contamination is present in both soil and groundwater. This increases the potential for exposure and adds complexity to site assessment and management.
In April 2025, ABC reported that NSW EPA had traced PFAS contamination in the Belubula River area to a composting facility. The report said the EPA was taking soil samples at grazing properties as a precaution, showing how soil contamination concerns can extend into waterways, livestock, and agricultural land use.
When contaminated soil is disturbed, fine particles can become airborne. When inhaled, it can cause breathing difficulties and respiratory irritation.
Long-term exposure can increase the risk of lung disease and cancer, particularly with asbestos. Australian environmental guidance identifies airborne exposure as a key concern, especially during excavation and construction.
Soil and dust can be swallowed unintentionally during everyday activities. This is a common exposure pathway.
According to the World Health Organisation, children are more vulnerable to lead exposure from contaminated soil and dust due to frequent hand-to-mouth behaviour. The WHO also notes that lead exposure can affect multiple body systems, including the brain, kidneys, liver, blood, cardiovascular system, and nervous system.
Direct contact with contaminated soil can irritate the skin. Some substances can also be absorbed through the skin that lead to rashes, dermatitis, and chemical burns in more severe cases.
Certain contaminants can enter the bloodstream through repeated exposure. This is why workers in site preparation need to manage this risk with protective equipment and controls.
Contaminated soil can affect home-grown produce because dust can settle on fruits and vegetables.
This can lead to long-term health effects such as organ damage and increased cancer risk. The risk is higher where produce is regularly consumed. This is why residential land use is assessed under stricter criteria.
Contaminants can move through soil into groundwater or nearby waterways. This can spread pollution beyond the original site. People can be exposed through drinking water, irrigation, and recreational use.
Contaminated water can cause a range of health issues, including gastrointestinal illness and long-term toxicity. It can also affect livestock and food safety.
Contamination can degrade soil quality and disrupt its natural biological processes. This can make the land unsuitable for landscaping, agriculture, and ecological restoration. Healthy soil supports a complex ecosystem of microorganisms, and contamination can interfere with that balance.
When contaminants enter natural habitats, they can affect a wide range of organisms, including insects, birds, and aquatic life. Some substances accumulate in plants and animals over time, which can lead to broader ecological impacts across the food chain.
As mentioned previously, contaminants can move through soil into groundwater or nearby surface water systems. Once contamination reaches water systems, it becomes more complex to manage and requires long-term monitoring and remediation.
For residential, commercial, industrial, and redevelopment sites, the most effective approach is early investigation, accurate risk assessment, and a remediation strategy that reflects the actual site conditions. This approach reduces uncertainty, helps avoid delays, and keeps projects moving forward with confidence.
If you’re dealing with potential soil contamination and planning a development, it is crucial to get the right advice early. Our team at Buildaroo can help you assess your site, understand the risks, and implement an effective soil remediation service that aligns with Australian standards.
Call us today on 0480 838 057 or get in touch through the online form to speak with our specialist and take the next step toward safe and compliant land use.
