Report: Teflon factory poisoned Dordrecht residents for decades

The Dupont/Chemours chemical factory in Dordrecht exposed local residents to serious health risks for decades with its Teflon production, the RIVM concluded in an as yet confidential investigation RTL Nieuws got its hands on.

Between 1870 and 2012 Dupont produced PFOA, a component for Teflon, used to make non-stick coatings for cookware. The substance is now banned as it becomes carcinogenic if it becomes too hot or scratches off.

According to the RIVM, the residents in the Merwedepolder neighborhood, which is next to the chemical factory, for decades lived with an increased risk of severe liver problems due to emissions released during the making of Teflon.

It is as yet unclear whether any local residents actually fell ill because of this. To establish that a substantial health examination with blood tests is needed.

The Inspectorate for Social Affairs and Employment is also currently investigating the factory to see whether employees were exposed to any health risks.