Chemical Tank Explosion at AmeriTies to be inspected by DEQ, OSHA today, March 10
A huge plume of fire rolls into the sky above the 55,000-gallon chemical storage tank at AmeriTies on Thursday night, March 9. The tank contained copper naphthenate, which is a copper-based, oil-borne wood preservative. It is a replacement for creosote in railroad ties and as a replacement for pentachlorophenol in utility poles, according to Nisus Corp. Photo by Jim Wilson
Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue used their ladder truck to blast water down on the blaze. Two firefighters were injured during an explosion. Photo by Jim Wilson
A group gathered around the burning tank looking at the damage this morning at AmeriTies.
By Tom Peterson
A chemical tank explosion and fire at AmeriTies in East the Dalles that injured two firefighters on Thursday night will be inspected by Oregon Occupational Health and Safety as well as the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality today, March 10.
This morning the 55,000 gallon tank was still smoldering as black plumes of smoke filled the air above the silver tanks next to the railroad tracks on Tie Plant Road east of The Dalles Marina.
Firefighters were able to keep the blaze contained tot the single storage tank seen here at far right still smoldering this morning, March 10 at 8:30 a.m.
The tank contained copper naphthenate, which is a copper-based, oil-borne wood preservative. It is a replacement for creosote in railroad ties and as a replacement for pentachlorophenol in utility poles, according to Nisus Corp.
The tank was close to empty at the time of the fire, however the diesel base made it impossible to extinguish with water.
Copper naphthenate is classified by EPA as a general-use (i.e., a non-restricted use) pesticide by virtue of its relatively benign toxicity profile, according to Wikipedia.
CCCNews called the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality this morning to find out the potential harm from the smoke of the burning chemicals. We will update this story when they provide information.
From Cameo Chemicals:
Copper naphthenate is highly flammable, according to literature from Cameo chemicals. It is easily ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapors may form explosive mixtures with air. Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Most vapors are heavier than air. They will spread along the ground and collect in low or confined areas (sewers, basements, tanks, etc.). Vapor explosion hazard indoors, outdoors or in sewers. Those substances designated with a (P) may polymerize explosively when heated or involved in a fire. Runoff to sewer may create fire or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Many liquids will float on water.
Health Hazard
Copper naphthenate vapor in its original form causes mild irritation of the eyes and mild irritation of the respiratory tract if inhaled. Ingestion causes irritation of the stomach. Aspiration causes severe lung irritation and rapidly developing pulmonary edema; central nervous system excitement is followed by depression. (USCG, 1999).
CCCNews is attempting to get information on the effects of its burned byproduct in the form of smoke that was blowing west of the blaze during the fire.
March 9, 10:30 p.m. From Wasco County Sheriff‘s Office:
A fire was reported to 911 Dispatch at 8:00 PM at the AmeriTies West plant located at 100 Tie Plant Road.
Around 8:29 PM, an explosion occurred in a copper naphthenate diesel tank that had been taken out of service earlier in the day to be cleaned.
Two firefighters were injured during the explosion and are in good condition at Mid-Columbia Medical Center. Responding units include Mid-Columbia Fire Rescue Engine 21 and Engine 22, Mid-Columbia Fire Rescue Medic 22 and 23, Dallesport Fire Engine 635, The City of the Dalles Police and the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office. The fire is contained and units are still on the scene.
From Wasco County Sheriff:
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March 9, 9:45 PM Update: A fire was reported to 911 Dispatch at 8:00 PM at the AmeriTies West plant located at 100 Tie Plant Road. Around 8:29 PM, an explosion occurred in a copper naphthenate diesel tank that had been taken out of service earlier in the day to be cleaned.
Two firefighters were injured during the explosion and are in good condition at MCMC. Responding units include Mid-Columbia Fire Rescue Engine 21 and Engine 22, Mid-Columbia Fire Rescue Medic 22 and 23, Dallesport Fire Engine 635, The City of the Dalles Police and the Wasco County Sheriff’s Office. The fire is contained and units are is still on the scene.
This is a developing story we’re covering from the ground and will add to this post as information is available.
