Chemical Transportation Incidents – Week of 5-2-26

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 – 486 (438 highway, 43 air, 5 rail, 0 water) 

• Serious incidents – 4 (3 Bulk release, 0 evacuation, 1 injury, 0 death, 0 major artery closed, 3 fire/explosion, 45 no release)  

• Largest container involved – 33,381.3-gal DOT 117R100W Railcar {Alcohols, N.O.S.} Drip leak from bottom cap. 

• Largest amount spilled – 343.8-gal Metal Drum {Resin Solution, Flammable} Load not blocked or chocked, drum crushed during transport. 

• Total amount reported spilled in all incidents – 1863.0-gal 

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

Most Interesting Chemical: Zinc Chloride, Anhydrous: Zinc chloride is a white crystalline solid. It is soluble in water. It is corrosive to metals and therefore irritating to the skin, eyes and mucous membranes. It is used for preserving wood, in soldering fluxes, as a catalyst in chemical metals and manufacturing, and for many other uses. Water reactive, produces exotherm and strong acid. (Source: CameoChemicals.NOAA.gov).  

INSERT UN 2331 Placard