In the aftermath of the Norfolk Southern train derailment, a fire of dangerous chemicals burned for days. Hazardous fumes were spewed into the air near the crash site.
As a result, the citizens of East Palestine were forced to evacuate. Some local residents have reported health issues, such as:
- Rashes
- Nausea
- Difficulty breathing
Two of the most dangerous chemicals on board the train were vinyl chloride and butyl acrylate. Understanding what happened with the train in Ohio requires a discussion about why exposure to these two compounds can be dangerous.
What Is Vinyl Chloride?
Vinyl chloride is a colorless gas. It has a slightly sweet odor and is used primarily in the production of polyvinyl chloride plastic (PVC). This compound is also known as chloroethylene, chloroethene, and ethylene monochloride.
The chemical is used to make a wide range of PVC products. Some of the most common examples include:
- Pipes
- Wire and cable coatings
- Various types of flooring
- Coverings for walls
- Automotive components
It is also used to make other products, such as synthetic rubber, coatings, and adhesives. While it is incredibly versatile and useful, vinyl chloride is also a known human carcinogen.
Breathing vinyl chloride can cause a range of health issues. Victims may experience both acute and chronic effects. Acute effects often occur shortly after exposure and can include irritation of the:
- Eyes
- Skin
- Respiratory tract
Exposure to high concentrations of vinyl chloride can also cause persistent headaches, dizziness, and drowsiness. In rare cases, victims may experience a loss of consciousness.
Long-term exposure to vinyl chloride has been linked to a higher risk of developing serious health problems. These include:
- Liver damage
- Damage to the nervous system
- Dysfunction of the immune system
- Various types of cancers
Chronic exposure to vinyl chloride has been associated with an increased risk of liver cancer, lung cancer, brain cancer, and lymphatic cancer. The resulting health effects of vinyl chloride exposure will vary depending on several factors, including:
- The duration and level of exposure
- The victim’s age
- The victim’s sex
- The victim’s general health status
If you believe you have been exposed to vinyl chloride, you should seek medical attention immediately. A physician may prescribe medications or other treatments to address vinyl chloride exposure.
Various government agencies strictly regulate the use of vinyl chloride due to its toxicity. The Norfolk Southern train derailment released large amounts of vinyl chloride into the air.
This has left residents in and around the area wondering whether what happened with the train in Ohio has affected the safety of their local air.
If you have been negatively impacted by the release of Norfolk Southern Railway’s vinyl chloride, do not wait. Contact a legal professional from Morgan & Morgan to discuss the possibility of pursuing compensation for the harm you suffered.
What Is Butyl Acrylate?
This colorless liquid has a powerful and fruity smell. It is typically used in the manufacturing of various consumer and industrial products.
For example, this chemical is used to make various paints and coatings. Butyl acrylate can also be used as a monomer in the manufacture of acrylic sealants and adhesives.
These products are utilized in the following industries:
- Construction
- Automotive
- Packaging
- Aerospace
Butyl acrylate is a critical element in the production of many textiles and fibers, including acrylic and modacrylic. Many personal care and fashion products, such as fingernail polish and hair gel, also contain this compound.
It is critical to note that butyl acrylate is highly flammable and dangerous when ingested. The train derailment in East Palestine, OH, raised many concerns about water contamination in the Ohio River.
Coming into contact with butyl acrylate is extremely dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. This toxin can cause severe irritation and damage to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system upon exposure.
When accidentally ingested, butyl acrylate can cause serious health problems. Some of the most typical symptoms and issues include:
- Irritation of the mouth
- Discomfort in the throat
- Stomach problems
- Persistent nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Severe abdominal pain
It can also cause damage to the liver and kidneys. In extreme cases, ingesting this compound can lead to coma or death.
The Environmental Protection Agency has been conducting extensive tests to determine the water quality downriver of the spill. If you suspect that you have been exposed to butyl acrylate or have ingested it, seek medical attention immediately.
The accomplished legal team at Morgan & Morgan knows how to fight for the rights of water contamination victims. Do not put up with the costs and losses caused by corporate negligence involved in what happened with the train in Ohio.