At 1057 on 30 August 2004, a representative of Valmont Oklahoma Galvanizing, Coatings Division, notified the National Response Center of a release of approximately 1000 gallons of 92% sulfuric acid. The release resulted from the failure of a 3000 gallon above ground storage tank. The cause of the failure is under investigation. The Verdigris Fire Protection District (VFPD) initially responded to the incident. The Claremore, Oklahoma and Catoosa, Oklahoma Fire Departments also responded to the incident. The VFPD evacuated approximately 35 people from two nearby businesses downwind. Eighteen (18) workers were sent to the local medical facility, 17 were later released. One person is being kept overnight for observation. The released sulfuric acid flowed over a concrete finished product storage area and into a drainage ditch. A temporary earthen containment berm was constructed in the drainage ditch to contain the sulfuric acid. According to the VFPD, no sulfuric acid flowed offsite. The Claremore FD conducted air monitoring using chemical detection tubes. Air monitoring results indicated no elevated levels of contaminants.
On 30 August 2004 at 1730 hours, the EPA Superfund Technical Assessment and Response Team (START-2) contractor mobilized to the scene to determine the extent of the release and monitor cleanup activities. At 1910 hours, START-2 arrived on site and met with representatives from ODEQ, VFPD, Claremore FD, and the PRP who guided START-2 through the area where the incident occurred. START-2 observed no sulfuric acid escaping the temporary earthen berm constructed in the drainage ditch and no evidence that any sulfuric acid had escaped the berm. The Claremore Fire Department applied a slurry of lime and water to the sulfuric acid remaining on the concrete storage area to raise the pH of the sulfuric acid. Approximately 8000 gallons of slurry was applied to the release.
PRP cleanup contractors are scheduled to arrive onsite on 31 August 2004.
START-2 will continue to monitor cleanup activities.
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