EQUISTAR CHEMICALS CHANNELVIEW COMPLEX

SummaryThe Equistar Chemicals Channelview Complex in Harris County, Texas experienced a significant chemical release involving multiple hazardous substances including 1,3-butadiene, benzene, carbon monoxide, and other industrial chemicals. Several of these chemicals, particularly benzene and 1,3-butadiene, are known to be toxic and can cause serious health risks if people are exposed through breathing or skin contact. Residents in the Channelview area should stay indoors, close all windows and doors, avoid outdoor activities, and contact local health authorities if they experience any unusual symptoms like difficulty breathing, dizziness, or skin irritation.

What was emitted

• 247.26 POUNDS of 1,3-BUTADIENE
• 552.68 POUNDS of Benzene
• 950.51 POUNDS of Butenes, All Isomers
• 9920.65 POUNDS of Carbon Monoxide
• 3827.00 POUNDS of Ethylene (gaseous)
• 851.10 POUNDS of Isobutene
• 1131.17 POUNDS of Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)
• 100.00 % OPACITY of Opacity
• 1296.75 POUNDS of Propylene
• 151.71 POUNDS of Toluene

How did it happenThe cause of this emission event was a loss of steam to the unit supplied by a third=party provider due to unexpected shutdown of two of the third-party provider's heat recovery steam generation units.