About 140 people have been asked to leave Mount Bundey Station, south-east of Adelaide River, following last night's declaration of the site as a Restricted Area.

The NT Coroner's order followed the receipt of test results on long-term residents, showing that eight people had elevated levels of arsenic in their system.

Darwin Police Commander Kym Davies says, "The evacuation was a precautionary measure to ensure people's safety and limit any further people from being potentially exposed to the arsenic source."

"People leaving Mount Bundey have been provided with information, telephone numbers and website contacts in case they are concerned that they may have been exposed to arsenic or might be displaying symptoms of arsenic poisoning."

The Department of Health's information line is 1800 008 002.

Northern Territory Chief Health Officer Dr. Barbara Paterson says, "Prolonged exposure is usually needed to record elevated levels of arsenic.

"All of the eight people who have recorded elevated arsenic levels have received medical attention and will be offered follow-up attention."

Mount Bundey Station will remain closed as authorities work towards locating the source of the arsenic.
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