Chemical Transportation Incidents – Week of 11-8-25

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.

NOTE: PHMSA’s database is not currently allowing online downloads. I was able to request a copy of the week’s data directly from PHMSA. That is the reason for this late posting.

Incidents Summary

• Number of incidents – 486 (453 highway, 31 air, 2 rail, 0 water)

• Serious incidents – 4 (3 Bulk release, 0 evacuation, 1 injury, 0 death, 0 major artery closed, 2 fire/explosion, 30 no release)

• Largest container involved – 33,900-gal DOT 117J100W Railcar {Petroleum Gases, Liquefied or Liquefied Petroleum Gas} Vapor valve cracked open, plug not tool tight.

• Largest amount spilled – 250-gal Plastic IBC {Caustic Alkali Liquids, N.O.S.} Forklift strike.

• Total amount reported spilled in all incidents – 2174.4-gal

NOTE: Links to Form 5800.1 for the described incidents are not currently available online.

Most Interesting Chemical: Hydrofluoric Acid And Sulfuric Acid Mixtures: A clear colorless liquid with a pungent odor. Corrosive to metals and tissue. Exposure to the fumes or brief contact can cause severe burns as mixture penetrates to cause deep-seated ulceration that is sometimes complicated by gangrene. (Source: CameoChemicals.NOAA.gov).