Chemical Plant Explosion and Chemical Spill in Pasadena, Texas

On the afternoon of June 24, an explosion and fire at the INEOS phenol chemical plant in the Houston suburb of Pasadena injured one employee. Initial investigations revealed that the accident was caused by the combustion of liquefied natural gas (LNG) caused by improper handling during the transfer of a tanker truck, resulting in a huge fireball and black smoke. Although the local fire department quickly extinguished the fire, the accident released isopropylbenzene and other chemicals that could pose a potential threat to air quality. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, isopropylbenzene is a skin and eye irritant, and short-term inhalation may result in headaches, dizziness and even loss of consciousness.