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Carlstadt: Chemical Fire INCIDENT DESCRIPTION: Shortly after mid-day on July 23rd BC Haz-Mat personnel responded to Carlstadt upon receiving a report concerning a chemical fire in a warehouse. The fire had apparently been caused when incompatible chemicals were allowed to mix. The chemicals involved included a chlorine containing product, xylene, and hydrochloric acid. The fire caused some property damage and required that the facility be evacuated. There were no injuries. BC Haz-Mat personnel worked with the Carlstadt Fire Department, Carlstadt Police Department, Wood-Ridge Fire Department, Moonachie EMS/Rescue personnel, and a hazardous materials cleanup contractor to bring the incident to a successful conclusion. SUMMARY OF BCDHS ACTIVITIES: Once the fire had been extinguished by fire department personnel BC Haz-Mat responders assessed the damage. It was determined that a container of xylene, a flammable solvent, had spilled onto a bucket containing a granular chlorine product. The xylene dissolved a portion of the plastic chlorine container. A chemical reaction ensued that resulted in a fire and in the release of chlorine gas. At least one container of a detergent product containing hydrochloric acid was also compromised by fire conditions; potentially further contributing to the fire and to the resultant off gassing of toxic gases. Air monitoring demonstrated the continuing presence of gaseous chlorine. Damaged chemical containers and contents remained on-site. It was determined that a hazardous materials cleanup contractor would be required. The products were monitored by BC Haz-Mat personnel until the contractor arrived. Upon arrival the contractor was briefed on specific job requirements and thereupon monitored in the performance of those requirements.
For more information regarding this incident please contact the duty officer at 201-634-2804 M-F from 8:30-4:30. Please reference BCDHS CASE #2006-7-87.
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