Transportation Chemical Incidents – Week of 9-21-24

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 – 598 (553 highway, 43 air, 2 rail, 0 water)

• Serious incidents – 5 (4 Bulk release, 1 evacuation, 1 injury, 0 death, 0 major artery closed, 2 fire/explosion, 55 no release)

• Largest container involved – 31,780-gal DOT 111S100W1 Railcar {Diesel Fuel} Loose manway bolts.

• Largest amount spilled – 900-gal DOT 407 tank truck {Corrosive Liquid, Acidic, Inorganic, N.O.S.} corroded valve leaked.

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

Most Interesting Chemical: Methylal - A clear colorless liquid with a chloroform-like odor. Flash point 0°F. Boiling point 42.3°C (108.1°F). Density 0.864 g / cm3 at 68°F (20°C). Vapors heavier than air. Water soluble. (Source: CameoChemicals.NOAA.gov). Remember: flammable liquids dissolved in water may make water ‘flammable’ depending on concentration.