Transportation Chemical Incidents – Week of 7-13-24

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 – 568 (486 highway, 79 air, 2 rail, 1 water)

• Serious incidents – 1 (1 Bulk release, 0 evacuation, 0 injury, 0 death, 0 major artery closed, 2 fire/explosion, 29 no release)

• Largest container involved – 20,450-gal DOT 112J340W railcar {Liquefied Petroleum Gas} Open liquid valve and leaking plug.

• Largest amount spilled – 4,205-gal Tank truck {Fuel, Aviation, Turbine Engine} Tank truck roll-over accident with leaking compartment dome lid.

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

Most Interesting Chemical: Phosphorus Oxychloride - A colorless fuming liquid with a pungent odor. Density 14.0 lb / gal. Very toxic by inhalation and corrosive to metals and tissue. Used in gasoline additives and hydraulic fluids. (Source: CameoChemicals.NOAA.gov). This is also an OPCW regulated chemical weapon precursor, so this may be considered a potential terrorist target.