Transportation Chemical Incidents – Week of 7-6-24

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 – 695 (581 highway, 109 air, 5 rail, 0 water)

• Serious incidents – 4 (6 Bulk release, 0 evacuation, 0 injury, 0 death, 1 major artery closed, 0 fire/explosion, 28 no release)

• Largest container involved – 30,290-gal DOT117R100W railcar {Hydrocarbons, Liquid, N.O.S.} Leaking bottom outlet valve.

• Largest amount spilled – 41,250-gal Tank truck {Sodium Hydroxide, Solid} Tank truck roll-over accident damaged 50-lb sacks of product.

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

Most Interesting Chemical: Hexachlorobutadiene - A colorless liquid with a mild odor. Insoluble in water and denser than water. Nonflammable. May be toxic by ingestion or inhalation. Used as a solvent and heat transfer fluid. Rapidly decomposes rubber on contact (Source:CameoChemicals.NOAA.gov).