Transportation Chemical Incidents – Week of 3-22-25

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 – 377 (370 highway, 7 air, 0 rail, 0 water)

• Serious incidents – 0 (0 Bulk release, 0 evacuation, 0 injury, 0 death, 0 major artery closed, 1 fire/explosion, 36 no release) Note: there were two reports where both the ‘Spillage’ and “No Release’ boxes were checked, there is little quality control on the part of submitters.

• Largest container involved – 2,600-gal DOT 406 Tank Truck {Diesel Fuel} Driver over filled UST.

• Largest amount spilled – 40-gal Plastic IBC {Environmentally Hazardous Substances, Liquid, N.O.S.} Load shifted in transit.

NOTE: Links above are to Form 5800.1 for the described incidents. Links not working for incident reports.

Most Interesting Chemical: Thiourea Dioxide: A white or light-yellow odorless crystalline powder. Mp:126°C. Soluble in water (27 g / L at room temperature). Decomposes exothermically at temperatures above 126°C with the emission of noxious gases (sulfur oxides, ammonia, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and hydrogen sulfide) and carbon dioxide. Extended exposure to temperatures above 50°C and moisture may cause visible decomposition. Irritating to skin and mucous membranes. Corrosive to eye tissue. Used in leather processing, the paper industry, photographic industry, and in textile processing as a bleaching agent. Flammable/combustible material. May ignite on contact with moist air or moisture.  (Source: CameoChemicals.NOAA.gov).