Achievements so far

The tenby10 project has had significant success in reducing the blood lead levels of Port Pirie's children, with 2008 results showing that 63.1% of children tested recorded a level below 10 µg/dL. This is a 8% improvement from the same time in 2007.

Concerns about blood lead levels have existed for decades and much work was done prior to tenby10 to alleviate the problem. In the 80s and 90s, major decontamination and environmental projects were undertaken and screening of children in Port Pirie began. By 2005, however, it was clear that although significant progress had been made, it was simply not enough. Thus the tenby10 project was born.

Since then, there has been a 20.7% improvement in the number of children 0 - 4 years of age with blood lead levels under 10 µg/dL, the target set by the tenby10 program. Key to this success has been the many tenby10 initiatives undertaken both at the Smelter and within the community, such as on site facility upgrades and policy improvements, increased monitoring of air quality, a vibrant communications program and improved and more accessible educational and nutritional programs at schools and community centres.

In 2008, SA Minister for Health John Hill said the dramatic improvements can be largely attributed to the success of the tenby10 project. "Success in reducing blood lead levels in children in Port Pirie has come about due to the combined efforts of the smelter operator, Nyrstar, the local Port Pirie Regional Council, the Environment Protection Authority and SA Health. Of particular importance has been the substantial investment by Nyrstar in on site emission control measures and environmental programs. Extensive community education and awareness programs have had the effect of increasing people's understanding of the interaction of lead dust in the environment and how to limit children's exposure to lead dust within the home".

The latest figures in blood lead levels indicate that we are making considerable progress in reaching the tenby10 goal. This fantastic achievement is the result of a whole community effort. It's an achievement of which everyone in Port Pirie can feel proud.