Toxic Industrial Chemicals (TICs)

The term “toxic industrial chemical” refers to a variety of chemicals used by industry in various processes, created by industry for various purposes, or released to the soil, to water, or to the air by industry as byproducts of either. Any chemical can be toxic or harmful in some dose, and the most dangerous of TICs are those that have harmful effects in relatively low doses when in air or in contact with skin or eyes.

The potential exists for first responders and surrounding populations located downwind or near such an industry to be exposed to levels that may impact their health. (See Figure 2-7 below.) Toxic industrial chemicals (TIC) may pose a high risk when they are stored in large quantities in one location. An act of sabotage or an accident can result in a large release of liquids, which could volatize and be breathed in by those nearby, or travel some distance downwind. An example would be a release of chlorine gas from a large tank into the surrounding air. Such a release could cause injuries and deaths into the thousands.

Chemical Refinery
Figure 2-7, Chemical Refinery
TICs may pose a terrorist threat as a weapon of mass destruction (WMD). Rail cars, tanker trucks, and fixed facilities are considered by some authorities as “soft targets” and could be high on the terrorist’s hit list. (See Figure 2-8 below.) Described on the next page are a few TICs, commonly called chemical warfare agents (CWA). The ability to detect an immediate hazard and take corrective action can save your life. Increased security measures are being implemented around these sites which could be “targets of opportunity.”
Parked Rail Cars on tracks
Figure 2-8, Parked Rail Cars

Excellent data on rail traffic can be obtained from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and the individual railway lines serving your area. Many individual rail lines can provide detailed information on the hazardous materials shipments in your area.

In addition, State regulatory agencies can tell you which hazardous materials travel most frequently by rail in your State.