Chemical Transportation Incidents – Week of 5-23-26

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 – 410 (383 highway, 26 air, 1 rail, 0 water) 

• Serious incidents – 0 (0 Bulk release, 0 evacuation, 0 injury, 0 death, 0 major artery closed, 0 fire/explosion, 29 no release)  

• Largest container involved – 25,150-gal DOT 113A90W Railcar {Argon, Refrigerated Liquid (Cryogenic Liquid)} PRV leaking, reset with mallet strike. 

• Largest amount spilled – 110-gal 55-gal metal drums {Adhesives, Containing A Flammable Liquid} Forklift strike during unloading. 

• Total amount reported spilled in all incidents – 995.2-gal 

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

Most Interesting Chemical: Argon, Refrigerated Liquid (Cryogenic Liquid): A colorless noncombustible liquid. Heavier than air. Contact may cause frostbite. May cause asphyxiation by displacement of air. Prolonged exposure to fire or intense heat may cause the container to rupture violently and rocket. (Source: CameoChemicals.NOAA.gov).