Why did initial factory checks in Singapore miss the odour source?

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Initial Factory Checks in Singapore Did Not Identify the Odour Source Due to its Origin in Malaysia

Initial inspections by Singaporean authorities, including the National Environment Agency (NEA) and the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), failed to pinpoint the source of the odour within Singapore because the source was located at an industrial facility in Pasir Gudang, Malaysia. While local monitoring stations subsequently detected low and safe levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), the origin of the smell lay across the border, rendering domestic factory checks insufficient to identify it.
Odour Traced to Malaysian Industrial Facility

The significant odour that affected residential areas in northeastern Singapore on a particular Monday was ultimately traced to an industrial facility situated in Pasir Gudang, Malaysia. The NEA was subsequently in contact with Malaysia's Department of Environment (DOE) to assist in investigating the gas-like smell, with the DOE taking action against the facility operator.
Low Levels of VOCs Detected Locally

Following the complaints, NEA's air monitoring stations within Singapore registered the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at low and safe concentrations. VOCs are defined as chemical compounds, both man-made and naturally occurring, that readily transition into a gaseous state from solids or liquids. The individual responses to these compounds can vary among people.
Wind Conditions May Have Aided Odour Accumulation

Meteorological conditions on the day in question, specifically from around 3pm, involved light winds and a convergence of air currents over the northern part of Singapore. This atmospheric pattern could have contributed to the accumulation of odours in the northern regions of the island, potentially exacerbating the perceived intensity of the smell experienced by residents.

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Why did initial factory checks in Singapore miss the odour source?

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