The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) Emergency Response Program contacted the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) On Scene Coordinator (OSC) Mobile Outpost on mid afternoon of 6/9/2014 requesting assistance concerning an ongoing anhydrous ammonia release at Millard Refrigeration Company located in Richland, MS. The OSC is en route.
MDEQ has contracted for air monitoring and hazmat response activities. Nearby businesses are currently sheltering in place. At approximately 0100 CST, MDEQ's contractors and the RP shut down the at maximum capacity 54,000 gallon anhydrous ammonia supply tank. Field observations estimate up to 2000 gallons of anhydrous ammonia remain within the building that is ventilating at less than approximately 10 gallons per hour. These estimates are subject to revision.
The responsible party (RP) has assumed contractor costs and management as of 0700 on 6/10/2014. The OSC, SOSC and RP are functioning under unified command. Please see the document section for progress and details.
