APRIL 20, 2015
BIRMINGHAM, AL
(WBRC)
About 22 homes were
evacuated from a north Birmingham neighborhood while crews moved a semi-truck
carrying hazardous material that got stuck around midnight.
The semi-truck,
which was carrying 3,000 gallons of sulfuric acid, was trying to navigate
through a neighborhood when it hit a curve and jackknifed on a narrow street
around midnight, according to EMA officials.
Police blocked off
the area and evacuated people in the Fairmont community on 40th Avenue North
near Lewisburg Road, off of Daniel Payne Drive and near Carver High School.
Birmingham police
told residents that if the sulfuric acid mixed with water, it could possibly
blow up.
A hazmat crew with
Birmingham Fire Department responded to the scene as a precaution.
None of the sulfuric
acid has spilled from the truck, according to Jody Hodge with the Jefferson
County EMA. He says the truck driver is also OK and no one was injured.
The truck was turned
upright and moved from the area where it got stuck by 8 a.m.
Residents who were
evacuated say this isn't the first time a semi-truck has been stuck in their
neighborhood.
“No it's not, it's
happened before, we didn't have to be evacuated, they were able to get the
truck up, but semis come through here all the time and turn over,” Sophia
Holloway said.
“We've gone to talk
to different people about getting some assistance with stopping these trucks
from coming through here. We don't want this to happen. We don't want this
neighborhood to blow up because of this type situation,” Holloway added.
Holloway explained
that the semi-trucks often miss their exit off 41st Avenue and go to Fultondale
to turn around, and the GPS routes the trucks through her neighborhood.
“Once they turn
around, they come through the neighborhoods and there's really no room for them
to maneuver in there,” she said.
Hodge said he
believed the truck driver was trying to get to a truck stop in the area and the
GPS took him a roundabout way. He said the driver turned on a narrow street and
jackknifed.
“Some of these
streets are very narrow, have sharp curves, and you know, with an 18-wheeler,
it just happened," Hodge said.
He said about 10
families chose to not evacuate and shelter in place.
The Red Cross had a
shelter on standby, but it was never opened.
Police will
determine when residents are allowed to return to their homes.
//--------------------------------------//
Sulfuric Acid Safety Tips – Sulfuric Acid MSDS Information
Jul 22, 2014
Sulfuric acid just might be a bigger deal than you realize. It’s actually an international commodity chemical produced in large quantities all around the world. While sulfuric acid has primarily industrial uses, it’s also found in common household products such as drain cleaner and fertilizer. Here is some important information about sulfuric acid safety so you can be prepared when using this chemical, whether in the workplace or around the home.
Sulfuric Acid and its Uses
Sulfuric acid is a clear, colorless and odorless liquid. It is water-soluble and capable of causing serious damage, especially at when the chemical is at high-concentration levels. Historically known as oil of vitriol, sulfuric acid began to be produced on a large scale in the 18th century.Sulfuric acid is used for a wide range of purposes both industrially and domestically. Produced primarily in Asia and North America, sulfuric acid is used in the production of:
- Fertilizers
- Drain cleaners
- Detergents
- Synthetic resins
- Pharmaceuticals
- Petroleum catalysts
- Insecticides
- Antifreeze
- Batteries
- Pigments such as paint, enamels, and printing inks
The Extreme Health Hazards Associated with Sulfuric Acid
Concentrated sulfuric acid is extremely corrosive and can cause serious burns when not handled properly. This chemical is unique because it not only causes chemical burns, but also secondary thermal burns as a result of dehydration. This dangerous chemical is capable of corroding skin, paper, metals, and even stone in some cases. If sulfuric acid makes direct contact with the eyes, it can cause permanent blindness. If ingested, this chemical may cause internal burns, irreversible organ damage, and possibly death.Exposure to sulfuric acid aerosols at high concentrations leads to severe eye and respiratory tract irritation and tissue damage. Consistent exposure to sulfuric acid aerosols, even at low concentrations, can cause a person’s teeth to erode. In laboratory or industrial settings, it’s important to use proper PPE when handling sulfuric acid.
At home, you are most likely to encounter concentrated amounts of sulfuric acid when using an acidic drain cleaner. It’s important to follow the safety instructions on the drain cleaner label to avoid these serious hazards (possibly life-threatening) risks.
How to Handle Sulfuric Acid Safely
When handling pure sulfuric acid in a laboratory or industrial setting, or when using products that contain concentrated sulfuric acid, it’s important to prioritize safety precautions. The following protective equipment should be worn when using sulfuric acid:- Respirator
- Long rubber gloves
- Boots
- Industrial apron
- Chemical safety goggles
- Face shield
It’s also a good idea to have access to an eye-flush station if using sulfuric acid at your workplace. Another important consideration when handling this dangerous chemical is that it can react violently if it comes into contact with water.
Care for Sulfuric Acid Exposure
Exposure to sulfuric acid can occur as skin/bodily contact, ingestion, or inhalation of vapors. Each type of exposure can pose serious hazards to your health and should be managed immediately and appropriately by a medical professional to minimize damage and health risks.Skin Contact – If sulfuric acid comes into contact with your skin, immediately flush the affected area gently with lukewarm water for at least 30 uninterrupted minutes. Seek medical attention immediately.
Eye Contact – If sulfuric acid gets into your eyes, immediately flush the eye(s) with water for at least 30 minutes. Seek medical attention immediately.
Ingestion – If you ingest sulfuric acid, rinse your mouth immediately with water. Do not induce vomiting. Continually rinse your mouth with water and seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Inhalation – If you inhale sulfuric acid aerosols, seek fresh air and medical attention immediately.
Proper Sulfuric Acid Storage and Disposal
Sulfuric acid or products that contain concentrated sulfuric acid should be stored in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Sulfuric acid should not be stored indoors in large quantities, to prevent the possible accumulation of vapors. Product containers should be regularly examined by professional MSDS experts for signs of damage or leaks.Whether you’re cleaning your drains at home or working with any concentration of this chemical at work, proper sulfuric acid safety is extremely important. For more information about sulfuric acid, safety, and disposal, search our database of MSDS information.