IS001 Tackling an Acid Leak

Episode Overview:

Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Industrial Strength Podcast! Hosted by Randy, a seasoned hazmat specialist with 17 years of industrial fire service experience, along with co-hosts Steve and Jeff, this podcast dives into the unique challenges of industrial fire and hazmat response. In this episode, the team breaks down the response to a significant sulfuric acid leak in an industrial facility, discussing their strategies, challenges, and key takeaways.

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps:

• [0:00 - 0:51] Introduction and Meet the Hosts
• Randy, Steve, and Jeff introduce themselves and share their extensive experience in industrial hazmat response.
• Overview of the podcast’s mission to discuss real-world industrial incidents and share lessons learned.
• [0:52 - 1:28] Episode Introduction: The Acid Leak Incident
• The team introduces the day’s topic: a sulfuric acid leak from a pressurized stainless steel storage tank.
• [1:30 - 6:36] Incident Details and Hazards of Sulfuric Acid
• Description of the leaking 4,000-liter 316 stainless steel tank containing 60% sulfuric acid.
• Hazards of sulfuric acid, including its chemical properties, corrosiveness, and risks of thermal burns.
• Challenges posed by the acid’s behavior under pressure and environmental impact considerations.
• [6:37 - 13:57] Initial Response and Safety Measures
• Defining the hot zone and isolating the area to protect workers.
• Using databases like PubChem and Cameo to determine PPE and safety measures.
• Selection of Level B suits with high permeation resistance for downrange responders.
• [13:58 - 17:10] Mitigation Strategies and Decontamination
• Implementation of wet water decon pools using heated safety showers.
• Utilization of chemical-resistant spill pads to absorb acid on the floor.
• Creative use of plastic sheeting to redirect the acid stream into a containment dike.
• [17:11 - 24:27] Lessons Learned and Post-Incident Analysis
• Discovering and adopting new tools like Magnesil patches for faster and more effective sealing of tank leaks.
• The importance of proper absorbent materials, such as pig pads, tailored for different chemical types.
• [24:28 - End] Conclusion and Call to Action
• Recap of the incident and key takeaways, emphasizing innovation and preparedness.
• Invitation to listeners from industrial fire departments to collaborate and share experiences.
• Teaser for the next episode on the dangers of solvent-rich environments.

Key Moments:

• Creative Problem-Solving: Jeff’s innovative use of plastic sheeting to control the acid stream highlighted the value of out-of-the-box thinking during emergencies.
• Safety First: The team’s dedication to PPE selection and decon procedures ensured a safe and efficient response.
• Post-Incident Improvements: Discovery of Magnesil patches and the transition to hazmat-specific pig pads showcased the importance of continuous learning.

Resources and References:

• PubChem and Cameo: Essential tools for hazmat chemical information and safety guidelines.
• Magnesil Patches by Neothane: Flexible, magnetic solutions for sealing leaks in industrial tanks.
• Pig Pads: Specialized absorbent pads for handling spills safely and efficiently.

Concluding Notes:

Thank you for joining us on this debut episode! The Industrial Strength Podcast aims to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among industrial fire departments. Share your feedback, questions, or ideas for future episodes by emailing us at [e-mail]. If you’d like to be a guest, we’d love to hear from you!

Next Episode Teaser:

Stay tuned for Episode 2, where we explore the hidden dangers of solvent-rich environments. Don’t miss it!