1.1.1 Incident Category

All chemicals were removed from the van using Level B ppe.  Over 800 various types of bottle ware and containers were removed from the van, and  segregated using Hazcat and HazmatID technologies. 

1.1.2 Site Description

A van full of unknown chemicals located on a parcel of property in the Shenandoah Forest Subdivision, Luray, VA

1.1.2.1 Location

Luray, Page County, VA

1.1.2.2 Description of Threat

Miscellaneous unknown chemicals, with some flammable" and "poisonous" labeled bottleware were located in a van in Luray VA.  Threat of fire or explosion, trespasser accessibility issues, and chemical off-gassing issues necessitated the need to conduct an emergency removal action. 

1.1.3 Preliminary Removal Assessment/Removal Site Inspection Results

Approximately 800 containers (liquids, powders, semi-solids) ranging in size from 1 liter bottles to small vials were removed from the van, and are currently being segregated for compatibility for future disposal.  HazmatID being utilized to assist in identifying unknown chemicals (approximately 400 of the containers). 

2.1.1 Narrative

VDEQ requested EPA assistance to assess the van to determine if any threats exist.  EPA initiated the assessment, and soon after initiation, the OSC activated emergency response capabilities to address the potential threats to human health and the environment. The issues include trespassers seen near the van upon OSC's arrival to perform the assessment, off-gassing of the van's contents, and threat of fire or explosion. 

2.1.2 Response Actions to Date

EPA and START contractors have completed segregation of the chemical wastes for compatibility. More than 800 miscellaneous chemical bottle ware and packages were segregated, with many of the chemicals containers missing labels.  Hazcat and HazmatID technologies were utilized to identify the contents of the unknown chemicals. 

All chemicals were placed in totes with like-chemicals, and the totes were reloaded into the van, awaiting disposal.  The van was secured, and poly-wrapped as a deterrent for potential trespassers. In addition, fencing was placed around the van.  The Page County Sheriff's office provided an entrance barricade, and will continue additional patrols along the road as an additional deterrent.  EPA has prepared the waste for T&D either through a possible RP, or by EPA.    

2.1.3 Enforcement Activities, Identity of Potentially Responsible Parties (PRPs)

EPA currently working on identifying PRP

2.1.4 Progress Metrics

2.2.1 Anticipated Activities

EPA has segregated the chemicals, and the characterized chemicals are awaiting shipment and disposal.  EPA has demobilized personnel from the property location.   

2.2.1.1 Planned Response Activities

Pending results of the PRP search, the RP or EPA will initiate disposal actions.

2.2.1.2 Next Steps

The segregated waste is awaiting initiation of disposal actions.

2.2.2 Issues

None to report at this time.  The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (VDEQ), Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM), and the Page County Sheriff's Office have been briefed on EPA's actions and future plans, and each Agency is in support of the anticipated actions.  

2.5.1 Safety Officer

OSC/START  

2.5.2 Liaison Officer

2.5.3 Information Officer