In the aftermath of a significant train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, on February 3, 2023, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a formal review of vinyl chloride, a cancer-causing chemical released during the accident. This move by the Biden administration is a response to the fiery accident that occurred earlier this year, involving a train carrying vinyl chloride and resulting in a massive cloud of toxic black smoke.
The EPA’s decision to evaluate the risks posed by vinyl chloride and other chemicals released in the crash marks a critical step in addressing public health concerns. This evaluation will determine whether these chemicals present an “unreasonable risk to human health or the environment.” The review, expected to take at least three years, follows reports of two deaths and nearly 100 illnesses in connection with the incident.
Vinyl chloride, primarily used in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), has been associated with liver, brain, lung, and blood cancers, according to the National Cancer Institute. The train derailment in Ohio, which saw officials vent and burn off the chemical, has brought renewed attention to the potential dangers of vinyl chloride.
The recent events in East Palestine, Ohio, and the subsequent EPA review underscore the need for continued vigilance and regulation of potentially hazardous chemicals, especially those transported across the country. Those touched by an industrial accident should know their legal rights and remedies, and act quickly to preserve them. Our attorneys have extensive experience in cases involving industrial and plant personal injury and wrongful death, including those caused by equipment malfunctioning. The firm has experience in courts across the country and the skills needed to represent the families of loved ones who have lost their lives or as a result of an explosion, or been seriously injured.
The experienced attorneys at Spagnoletti Law Firm can help you understand your rights if you or a loved one was a victim of an accident at a plant or refinery. Please contact us online or call 713-804-9306 or to learn more about your legal rights.