Transportation Chemical Incidents – Week of 8-30-25

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 – 465 (424 highway, 31 air, 10 rail, 0 water)

• Serious incidents – 4 (2 Bulk release, 1 evacuation, 1 injury, 0 death, 1 major artery closed, 3 fire/explosion, 22 no release)

• Largest container involved – 30,550-gal DOT 117J100W Railcar {Ethanol and Gasoline Mixture or Ethanol and Motor Spirit Mixture or Ethanol And Petrol Mixture, With More Than 10% Ethanol} Bottom valve leaking and cap not tool tight.

• Largest amount spilled – 2,460-gal SuperSack {Sodium Carbonate Peroxhydrate} Load not blocked/chocked, bag crushed during transport.

• Total amount reported spilled in all incidents – 5630.3 gal

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

Most Interesting Chemical: CHLOROFORM: A clear colorless liquid with a characteristic odor. Denser (12.3 lb / gal) than water and slightly soluble in water. Hence sinks in water. Nonflammable under most conditions, but burns under extreme conditions. May cause illness by inhalation, skin absorption or ingestion. Used as a solvent, to make other chemicals, as a fumigant. (Source: CameoChemicals.NOAA.gov).

 

INSERT UN 1888 Placard