An explosion and resulting fire occurred at 1107 hours on January 6, 2004, at the Detco Chemical Company in Conway, Arkansas. The explosion is suspected to have originated in the aerosols production area of the facility but specific cause is unknown at this time and believed to be accidental. The site is located at 605 East Robins Street in Conway, Faulkner County, Arkansas, in a commercial/industrial area with nearby residences. The fire occurred at an approximately 35,000 ft2 facility owned by Detco Industries, Inc. Detco produces industrial cleaners using raw solvent and caustic materials.
An evacuation within ½ mile of the facility was undertaken by local officials and Interstate 40 was shutdown. Two injuries were reported, one serious and one minor. Chemicals of concern included hydrofluoric acid, sulfuric acid and multiple cleaning fluids (TCE, PCE, DCE).
EPA mobilized an OSC and Superfund Technical Assessment Response Team (START) contractors to the site. The Governor of Arkansas also mobilized a National Guard Civil Support Team (CST) to the site as well.
OSHA representatives are now on scene conducting accident investigation activities. The fire was contained by the Conway Fire Department (CFD) by 0830 hours on 06 January 2004. Approximately 2 miles of an unnamed, intermittent stream were impacted by fire suppression runoff. Two earthen dams were built within the stream to contain site runoff. CFD officials reported numerous road and business closures within a mile of the site and evacuations of an estimated 192 residential units within ½ mile of the site. Roads were reopened at approximately 2030 hours on 06 January 2004. Evacuation of nearby residences remains; however, residents are allowed to retrieve necessary items.
