On 1/23/2011 Pepco Holdings Inc. reported a 5500gals release of mineral oil directly to the Potomac River from their Potomac River Generating Station, Alexandria, Va. The report was made to the NRC at 1238hrs on 1/23/2011. The incident was discovered by Pepco reps at around 0230 hrs on 1/23/2011. FOSC Fitzsimmons was dispatched to the incident by the Region III Standby Duty Officer at around 1300hrs on 1/23/2011.
FOSC reported to the scene at around 1345hrs and met with representatives of Pepco, Va DEM, Alexandria Fire Dept. and the Deputy Fire Marshall. Pepco reported that its OSRO (Triumvirate Inc.) had just arrived on site and was placing sorbent pads in the contaminated areas. The spill emanated from a 20,000gals transformer transfer line that bypassed containment. It was unclear as to total actual quantity of mineral oil spilled. Mineral oil in the Potomac River was evident in the vicinity of a plant intake culvert and had been contained, within the vicinity of the intake, due to a pre-existing debris boom. The FOSC directed the OSRO to initiate immediate collection activities via vac truck in this area.
Upon arrival of the USCG Sector Baltimore FOSCR personnel and further discussions, removal leadership responsibilities and authority was transferred to them. The EPA FOSC provided assistance to the USCG and departed the scene at approximately 1800hrs.
On February 3, 2011 FOSC Fitzsimmons attended the site Hot Wash meeting conducted by Pepco. Pepco concluded that approximately 4500 gals of non-PCB contaminated mineral oil was released to the Potomac River and only 500 gals was recovered from the river. The USCG will followup with any enforcement action. The FOSC will perform a followup SPCC inspection with the assistance of the Region III Oil and Prevention Branch. An SPCC inspection has been scheduled with Region III Oil and Prevention Branch for early March, 2011.
