Local Emergency Planning Committee Meeting The quarterly meeting of the District 4 Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) was held at the Regional Council on August 14, 2013. The meeting was highlighted by two presentations on hazardous materials. Ms. Sarrah Stanley, NEFRC intern, presented her findings from conducting a “Hazardous Materials Commodity Flow Study” on our major roadway networks. Her presentation highlighted the most common hazardous chemicals being transporting throughout the region and recommended training to respond to a chemical release or spill. Eric Anderson, NEFRC Staff, gave a presentation on the West, Texas fertilizer plant explosion. Although this incident was overshadowed by the Boston Marathon terrorism event, this still remains the largest chemical accident in the United States in decades. A total of 15 people died and over 200 were injured in the detonation of 30 tons of ammonium nitrate. In response to this incident, staff will be working with each county fire department to provide more chemical resources and information. This is being done in an effort to better pre-plan responses to facilities that contain chemicals which pose a serious risk to people and the environment. Our region sits at the crossroads of one of the busiest rail and transportation corridors in the nation. A small amount of resources committed to pre-planning can prevent the catastrophic loss of life and resources from a major spill or release. For more information contact Eric Anderson at [email protected]
Posted on: Tue, 10 Sep 2013 14:42:16 +0000