Transportation Chemical Incidents – Week of 5-11-24

Reporting Background

See this post for explanation, with the most recent update here (removed from paywall).

Data from PHMSA’s online database of transportation related chemical incidents that have been reported to the agency.

Incidents Summary

• Number of incidents – 522 (449 highway, 56 air, 7 rail, water 1)

• Serious incidents – 5 (5 Bulk release, 1 evacuation, 1 injury, 0 death,1 major artery closed, 0 fire/explosion).

• Largest container involved – 30,290-gal DOT 117R100W railcar {Hydrocarbons, Liquid, N.O.S.} Vapor leak from PRV seal at railcar repair facility. (Note: The data base listed a 221,700-lbs hopper car of ammonium nitrate, but that is ‘smaller’ that a 30,290-gal liquid railcar).

• Largest amount spilled – 2,600-gal DOT 412 trailer (Hydrochloric Acid) Bleeder valve on product transfer line left open during unloading operations.

NOTE: Links above are to the Form 5800.1 for the described incidents.

Most Interesting Chemical: Amyl Acetates (also known as banana oil) – Any one or more of six isomers. Flammable liquid with varying flash points depending on the isomer (lowest 69°F). Water miscible, but floats on water, so water may spread fire. Not toxic but noxious at relatively low vapor concentrations.