On 05/25/2017 EPA Region 2 REOC received a NRC report indicating that a propylene gas release had occurred at SMS Rail Lines, a private rail transfer facility in Logan Township, Gloucester County, NJ. The area is mostly an industrial park but there are nearby residences and other businesses. The release occurred when a valve cap on a compressed propylene monomer rail car was being removed. The valve itself was believed to be closed, however, for a cause yet to be determined, a pressure build-up caused the valve to blow out when the cap was removed. This resulted in a rapid release of compressed gas which vaporized instantly. One individual suffered cryo burns and was transported to a local hospital. County and local HazMat/Fire Departments are on scene. Firefighters used fog spray to suppress the vapors. The NJ DEP was on scene and EPA mobilized an OSC to respond to the release. An RMP inspector was also dispatched to the scene. An evacuation within a half-mile radius was put into effect and no other injuries were reported.
