These reports describe significant environmental incidents reported to and tracked by the National Response Center. They reflect both new incidents and follow-up information describing actions taken for previously reported events. The NRC publishes Incident Summary Reports periodically upon receipt of documentary information from the Federal On-Scene Coordinator.
| NRC Case #: | 015-97 |
|---|---|
| INSUM #: | One |
| Occurence Date: | 8 May, 1997 |
| Location: | Helena, AR |
| Source: | Super Sack of Azinphosmethyl |
| Material: | Azinphosmethyl |
| Severity: | Major |
| Quantity Discharged: | Unknown |
| Quantity in Water: | Unknown |
| Body of Water Affected: | None |
| Federal On-Scene Coordinator: | EPA Region VI |
SITUATION: On Thursday May 8, 1997, a fire and explosion occurred in a super sack of Azinphosmethyl at the BPS Chemical Plant in Helena, AR releasing a large cloud of toxic gas. 100,000 pounds of material were in the facility at the time of the fire. Three firefighters died during as a result of a collapsing roof. Twenty others were treated for smoke inhalation and dehydration. The area within a three miles radius of the facility was reported evacuated, including 44 patients and 150 employees for the Helena Regional Medical Center. The Department of Defense's Army Technical Escort Unit is on scene conducting general air sampling. The Lower Mississippi River was closed between mile markers 660-670 and was later reopened. EPA Region and EPA Office of Emergency and Remedial Response will continue to monitor situation. CASE PENDS .