Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) has received the results of further testing undertaken in a building near 1228 Nepean Highway, Cheltenham.
EPA began investigating the site following a report on Monday of trichloroethylene (TCE) vapours coming from underground.
Of the five sample results received today, only one has returned a result for TCE. The result is low and the community is not in any immediate danger from the contamination.
As a precaution, business occupiers in the area adjacent to the site with basements or underground cellars – where vapours could potentially build up – should keep these well ventilated to minimise any possible exposure to TCE.
The community should also avoid any direct contact with groundwater.
EPA is working with the premises occupier to manage the situation and is conducting further monitoring at the site tomorrow.
TCE was discovered at the site as part of an environmental audit of the site that had been vacant for seven years and reported to EPA as required under the Environment Protection Act 1970.
Those wanting more information or who have any concerns are invited to call EPA on 1300 372 842, or visit www.epa.vic.gov.au