Train crash in the United States raises concerns about the release of toxic gases

A train carrying toxic substances derailed on February 3 in Eastern Palestine, Ohio, USA. In order to control the damage caused by leakage of products that are harmful to the environment and the health of the residents, the authorities carried out the release and burning of substances in a controlled manner. But even the gases produced in the procedure have caused concern.

About 50 of the 150 wagons on the Norfolk Southern Railroad train derailed while traveling between Illinois and Pennsylvania.

On February 1, a train carrying toxic chemicals derailed and caught fire in eastern Palestine, Ohio. 3 initiates eviction orders and a federal investigation. Now there are concerns about the environment and the transport network.

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Got him under control of 50 derailed cars dangerous chemicalsincluding butyl acrylate and vinyl chloride, which are among the flammable liquids that authorities fear could trigger a massive explosion.

Citizens were asked to evacuate the area as a precautionary measure. On Monday (06), teams announced that the authorities “controlled release” of dangerous chemicals that cause a large cloud of black smoke.

What were the toxic chemicals?

According to this US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)Following the derailment, the 4 main chemicals present at the scene and monitoring the air quality throughout the region contaminated the air, soil and water in the accident area. These:

• vinyl chloride: a highly flammable, colorless gas used in the manufacture of plastics. It is used to produce polyvinyl chloride resin (the famous PVC) and is classified as a carcinogen.
• butyl chloride: A clear, flammable liquid used in the manufacture of paints that may cause irritation to the skin, eyes and respiratory system.
• Ethyl Hexyl Acrylate: A colorless liquid used in the manufacture of paints and plastics, which can produce hazardous vapors when in contact with heat.
• Monobutyl Ethylene GlycolI: A colorless, highly flammable liquid considered extremely toxic, used in the manufacture of solvents.

Air quality continues to be monitored

The EPA is expected to continue monitoring the weather throughout the Ohio crash site. Chemicals were also spilled into waterways in the accident, but the EPA says Norfolk Southern contractors “installed a dam and water diversion to prevent further contamination.” They also stopped the spillage of the product.”

The agency said so far it has not identified a “level of concern” in eastern Palestine. In the evaluations made by the authorities in the residences, no chemical products were found as a result of the accident.