The R2 Regional Emergency Operations Center (REOC) received an email alleging there was a chemical release of Biocide on the Rutgers University Busch Campus, which occurred over a period of a week in September 2011. The REOC searched for notifications through the Regional Public Liaison, the hotline notification logs, and the National Response Center database between August 2011 and November 2011. During this time neither the EPA nor their USCG counterpart was notified of a chemical spill at Rutgers University, Busch Campus.
The REOC contacted the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) Bureau of Emergency Response (BER), southern branch, and requested they complete a similar query of historical notification during the same timeframe. During NJDEP’s search, 3 spills were found. Two occurred in September, but did not appear to relate to a biocide release. However the third report (Incident #408055), which occurred on October 28, 2011, involved a release of approximately 50 gallons of cooling water to a storm drain due to a blockage. In researching biocides, it was identified that biocides can be added to cooling water treatment to prevent growth of organisms. On April 25, 2012, OSCs Tabayoyong & Banner conducted an investigation at the Busch Campus regarding the Incident #408055 release and the email received by the REOC.
