Transportation Chemical Incidents – Week of 9-6-25

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 – 551 (504 highway, 39 air, 8 rail, 0 water)

• Serious incidents – 4 (3 Bulk release, 0 evacuation, 1 injury, 0 death, 1 major artery closed, 3 fire/explosion, 36 no release)

• Largest container involved – 28,810-gal UTLX 675498 Railcar {Dicyclopentadiene} Bottom valve not completely closed and cap not tool tight.

• Largest amount spilled – 3,000-gal Tank Truck {Diesel Fuel} Damaged in roll-over truck accident.

• Total amount reported spilled in all incidents – 3305.7 gal

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

Most Interesting Chemical: Dicyclopentadiene: A liquid with an acrid odor. Flash point 90°F. The vapors are irritating to the eyes and respiratory system. Subject to polymerization if subjected to heat for prolonged periods or if contaminated. If the polymerization takes place inside a container, the container may violently rupture. Insoluble in water. Density 8.2 lb / gal. Used in paints, varnishes, as an intermediate in insecticides, as a flame retardant in plastics. (Source: CameoChemicals.NOAA.gov).