At 0530, a citizen contacted the Houston Fire Department of a vapor cloud eminating from a facility located at 5921 Plainview. Houston FD responded to the scene to determine the source. The source was identified as a approximate 10000 gallon above ground storage tank (AST) of 36% Hydrochloric Acid.
At 0809, the Houston FD reported this release to the National Response Center (NRC # 896347). The PRP was reported as Sharp Performance Chemicals located at 5921 Plainview, Houston, Texas.
Upon arrival of EPA START Contractors, it was determined that approximately 1400 gallons of HCL had been released from the tank and was running off-site. The Houston FD contained the spill with a secondary containment tub underneath the valving and piping. The run-off from the site entered the City-of-Houston Storm Sewer. Houston FD covered the storm sewer to prevent any further release into it.
The fire department transfered product from the secondary containment and the tank into on-site poly totes. Approximately 600 gallons of product was transferred into totes.
City-of-Houston Public Works contractor Eagle Construction removed the spilled material from Plainview and flushed the storm sewer. Eagle Construction utilized sorbent material and a Soda Ash Solution to neutralize the roadway and storm sewer.
The PRP will begin an investigation into the spill, continue neutralization, and complete cleanup activities.
City-of-Houston Public Works will return to the site to assess the condition of the storm sewer after the spill.
TCEQ and EPA will meet with the PRP to discuss remediation activities of the facility on 2 February 2009.
The PRP will complete cleanup activities as directed by the TCEQ.
EPA, TCEQ, City-of-Housotn Fire Department, Harris County HAZMAT, City-of-Houston Public Works Department, Houston Police Department, and Harris County Police all responded the site.
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