IndChem, Inc. - Executive Summary |
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The purpose of this document is to inform interested persons, including the public, that our facility is complying with the Environmental Protection Agency Accidental Release and Prevention Requirements: Risk Management Programs under the Clean Air Act Sections 112(R)(7). This regulation is published in 40 CFR Part 68. We have assessed and continue to assess how accidental releases may occur, and how the public and environment might be impacted. After reading this program, you may consider making recommendations for improvements to the Health, Safety, and Environmental Manager. IndChem, Inc. is a distributor of industrial chemicals. We store two substances that are regulated by the above Act at or above the threshold quantities; chlorine and hydrofluoric acid. Chlorine is a pungent greenish yellow gas or amber color in liquid form. The material is irritating to the skin and eyes, and is a toxic inhalation hazard. Chlorine is heavier than air and tends to settle in low areas. Chlorine i s not flammable, but may support combustion. Hydrofluoric acid is a colorless corrosive liquid. It is a skin, eye, and inhalation hazard. The material is not flammable. WORST-CASE CHLORINE SCENARIO, ERPG 2_ Based on modeling, a complete failure and release of our largest container (150 pounds) may impact the surrounding area within 0.4 miles. ALTERNATIVE RELEASE CHLORINE SCENARIO, ERPG 2_ Based on modeling, the most probable release of 10 pounds of chlorine may impact the surrounding area within 0.1 miles. WORST-CASE HYDROFLUORIC ACID SCENARIO, ERPG 2_ Based on modeling, the failure of our largest container (500 pounds) may impact the surrounding area within 0.3 miles. ALTERNATIVE RELEASE HYDROFLUORIC ACID SCENARIO, ERPG 2_ Based on modeling, the most probable release of 100 pounds of material may impact the surrounding area within less than 0.1 miles. Designing for Safety: Cylinders and drums are stored in a secured area; Cylinders are handled in racks to prevent tip-over, and drums are wrapped on pallets; Packages are stored away from combustibles; Cylinders and drums meet the Department of Transportation requirements for performance oriented packaging. Maintaining the Plant: All maintenance is performed by bonded qualified contractors; All equipment is inspected daily for damage and operability. Operating Safely: Only trained employees are allowed to operate equipment, and handle hazardous materials; Observations are made to insure procedures are followed; Employees are given incentives to prevent accidents. Auditing our Operations: Operators inspect cylinders and drums daily; Loss control audits are performed by our insurer; Internal audits are conducted annually; Regulatory inspections are performed. Training and Preparation: Plant Emergency Response Plan; Local Emergency Planning Committee; Cylinder and drum repair kits are on-site; Employees receive continual training; Professional Hazardous Materials Team, Charleston Fire Department. If a release occurs at our facility: 1. The plant alarm is sounded; 2. Facility Emergency Coordinator is called to assess the release; 3. N. Charleston Fire Department is called if needed and facility is evacuated; 4. Charleston County Emergency Management Agency is notified; 5. Release is controlled by the fire department, or plant personnel. We have had no reportable accidents in the last five years. |