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The Total Oxidisable Precursor (TOP) Assay has become a widely used tool for understanding PFAS contamination beyond the limited suite of compounds routinely measured by conventional LC-MS/MS analysis. By converting precursor compounds into measurable perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAAs), TOP Assay can provide valuable insights into precursor occurrence, future PFAS transformation potential, and the broader PFAS mass present in environmental samples. As a result, it is increasingly being used to support site investigations, risk assessments, treatment design, and environmental management decisions.
However, after almost a decade of application in Australia, a key question remains: when different laboratories and practitioners undertake TOP Assay, are they producing results that are truly comparable?
Variations in oxidation conditions, analytical suites, quality assurance procedures, data validation approaches, reporting formats and interpretation can all influence outcomes. Similar datasets may therefore lead to markedly different conclusions regarding precursor presence, future risk, and the need for further investigation or management actions. These inconsistencies can reduce confidence in TOP Assay outcomes and limit its value as a decision-support tool for practitioners, regulators, auditors and site owners.
This interactive seminar will bring together laboratories, consultants, regulators, auditors, researchers and end users to explore how TOP Assay is currently applied across Australia and identify opportunities to improve consistency in methods, interpretation and reporting. Through expert panel discussion, live polling and stakeholder engagement, participants will help identify key technical issues, priorities for improvement, and practical solutions for achieving more reproducible and defensible outcomes.
The session will also serve as the starting point for the development of industry practice notes aimed at improving laboratory comparability and providing clearer guidance on the interpretation and reporting of TOP Assay data. Whether you generate, review, regulate or rely on TOP Assay results, this is an opportunity to help shape a more consistent and fit-for-purpose approach for the Australian PFAS industry.
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Your ticket includes a complimentary drink and a selection of appetizers. Please note that this is not a formal dinner event.
BYO! To minimise our use of plastic, we encourage delegates to bring their own reusable water bottles and coffee cups.
Due to the venue’s security measures, make sure you arrive on time.
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Dr. Heather Lord joined ALS in 2025 as the Global PFAS Practice Lead, with a mandate to Enhance ALS’ global PFAS strategy, with priorities to lead client and regulatory engagement. She works closely with ALS' regional PFAS practice leads in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific, collaborating and guiding innovation, quality and technical excellence. She obtained her Ph.D. in analytical chemistry from the University of Waterloo in Canada and brings a wealth of experience at the forefront of PFAS environmental analytical science. Having lead testing services development and presented extensively on PFAS issues, she is a trusted advisor to clients navigating the complex and sometimes non-routine testing requirements for PFAS.
WSP
Level 27, 680 George Street
Sydney NSW 2000
ALGA Member $45.00
Non-Member $90.00
Welcome Branch $25.00
Student $15.00
1.5 CPD points
