Approximately 26 cars and two locomotives derailed. One hazmat car containing hydrochloric acid was determined to be leaking onto the ground and fuming. Numerous cars are piled on top of the HCl car complicating response action. Some are 'auto rack' cars (rail cars carrying brand new automobiles). A high potential exists for oil discharge from the autos and locomotive. Brush fires abound in the rural wooded area. No residences within 1.25 miles. Local Fire and Hazmat teams from Flagler and St Johns Counties are leading response efforts. Jacksonville Fire and Hazmat also responding. FDEP SOSC Herndon Sims EPA OSC Chris Russell, and START personnel from OTIE are responding to assist with air and surface water monitoring and to ensure safe clean-up activity.
On May 10th, OSC Russell arrived on Site and sized up situation determining that conditions were not optimally safe to continue with hazmat operations. OSC Russell, working within Unified Command, requested the response contractors cease operaations until they provided a unified health and safety plan, as well as incorporated appropriate air monitoring activities.
OSC Russell ordered START consultants for entry teams and data management, G-2 equipment management personnel, and a host of air monitoring, communications, and personal protective equipment to faciitate safe oversight of hazmat operations.
Upon completing an approved H&S Plan the response contractors will offload the HCl from the damaged car into a sound unit.
After the hazmat transfer is complete the residual contamination should be removed by the RP under FDEP oversight.
|
