At 2:10 pm on December 2, 2009, an over-pressurized glycerin neutralization tank exploded and compromised a 5000 gallon tank, approximately 40% full of 93% sulfuric acid, at the Imperium Grays Harbor biodiesel facility in Hoquiam, Washington. The sulfuric acid tank was offgassing to the atmosphere and leaking approximately 2000 gallons into secondary containment. No other tanks have been compromised. There have been no fire and no injuries, however nearby businesses were evacuated.
EPA is currently mobilizing two OSCs and three START contractors to the incident at Imperium Grays Harbor to monitor the situation and provide technical assistance and air monitoring to state and local authorities.
Washington Ecology is responding, and USCG Sector Portland has been advised. The USCG is not mobilizing at this time, but will refer the facility to their Facilities Group.
