mapping risk

Here are some California companies that supply the high-tech industry and have filed worst case scenario reports with the EPA. Some sample scenarios are included below. Note: population estimates are from 1999; many areas have become denser since then.

Sumitomo Sitix Silicon, Inc.
Fremont, California
County: Alameda
Special risks: earthquake
Security and safety record:
Very good.

Worst case scenarios:
• Hydrochloric acid (hydrogen chloride, anhydrous) spill, 3,000 lbs. liquid spill and vaporization, covering 1.9 miles in 4 minutes, affecting 27,106

Areas included: Residences, schools, daycare centers, correction facility, and a national wildlife refuge

Possible health effects: TOXIC; vapors may be fatal if inhaled.

FIRST AID

• Hydrogen explosion, 11,848 lbs., covering 0.2 miles, affecting 314 residents

Areas included: Apartments, major commercial centers
Possible health effects: CAN BE FATAL; Vapors may cause dizziness or asphyxiation without warning. Fire may produce irritating and/or toxic gases.

FIRST AID

More likely scenario:

• Hydrochloric acid leak, 204 lbs. leak, covering .29 miles in 10 minutes, affecting 450 residents
Areas included: Residences, commercial centers
Possible health effects: TOXIC; vapors may be fatal if inhaled.

FIRST AID

• Hydrogen explosion, 518 lbs., covering .2 miles, affecting 314 residents
Areas included: commercial centers
Possible health effects: CAN BE FATAL; Vapors may cause dizziness or asphyxiation without warning. Fire may produce irritating and/or toxic gases.

FIRST AID

   
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Map by Johan De Meulanaere, El Andar

= Residential area

Outer ring = Worst-case scenario, hydrochloric acid spill, 1.9 miles diameter