On May 20, 2025,
an unknown oil was identified within a Franklin County storm drain (Mason Run)
in Columbus, Ohio that transects the Defense Supply Center Columbus a federal military
installation downgradient from GFL Environmental Inc. (GFL). Whitehall Police,
Franklin Fire and Columbus HAZMAT initially responded to the area to survey the
extent of the contamination and provide containment locations within Mason Run.
Upon initial investigative activities, Columbus Division of Fire/Columbus
HAZMAT personnel indicated the incident originated from a rail tank car on a
private rail spur at the GFL Environmental facility and that approximately
2,500 gallons of product was released. The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency
(OEPA) initiated engagement with GFL who subsequently hired an oil spill
response organization (OSRO) to contain, recover and conduct reconnaissance
activities to ascertain the extent of contamination downgradient from the GFL
facility. OEPA initiated oversight of GFL OSRO personnel to monitor effective containment,
recovery, and response efforts. On May 21st, 2025 OEPA requested technical
assistance and subject matter expertise in relation to this incident from the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA). US EPA obtained a Safety Data Sheet
from GFL and has preliminary determined that a proprietary GFL product (Fuel
Oil #4) was discharged. Due to a strong naphthalene component of the fuel, pungent
and ‘aromatic’ vapors have been identified within the surrounding community. Initial air monitoring data by fire
department personnel had indicated there is no threat to public health. US EPA has
initiated air monitoring circuits along the impacted area and within
residential and commercial areas in proximity during on-going response efforts.
