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The NSW Environment Protection Authority has launched a formal investigation into a major chemical fire that broke out at Coopers Environmental Waste Recycling Pty Ltd in North St Marys late on Saturday night.
The blaze, which ignited around 11:30pm on 29 November, triggered several explosions and prompted a significant emergency response. EPA officers were onsite from early Sunday morning, working alongside Fire and Rescue NSW to manage the incident and minimise environmental and community impacts.
Hazardous Waste on Site
The EPA confirmed that the facility contains hazardous waste materials, and has urged the community to stay clear of the area, which remains cordoned off.
Residents are also being asked to avoid:
- The unnamed creek running beside the Kurrajong Road facility, and
- South Creek, between Kingsway Rugby Field and Dunheved Golf Course,
while extensive clean-up operations continue.
Clean-Up Notice Issued
A formal Clean Up Notice has been issued to Coopers Environmental, requiring immediate action to prevent any further spread of pollution.
The company has appointed a specialist contractor to:
- Deploy sucker trucks to remove contaminated fire water and sludge
- Clean adjoining culverts along Kurrajong Road
- Remove pollution from additional downstream sections of the waterway
Under the notice, the business must also engage a qualified environmental consultant to:
- Assess the impact on nearby waterways
- Provide a detailed inventory of chemicals stored on the premises before the incident
- Ensure all contaminated waste is handled and disposed of safely
Ongoing Water Quality Testing
As part of its continuing investigation, the EPA is conducting water quality monitoring downstream of the site. Results will be released to the public once available and at the appropriate time.
For more information
Community advice and updates can be found at: https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/Working-together/Community-engagement/updates/greater-sydney/north-st-marys-fire
