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.


Matheson Gas Products
Newark, California
County: Alameda
Special risks: earthquake
Security and safety record: Poor; 3 accidents in last 3 years

Worst case scenario:
• Boron trichloride spill and vaporization, covering 1.8 miles in 10 minutes, affecting 28,412 residents

Areas included: Schools, residences, recreation areas, businesses

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

FIRST AID


More likely scenarios:
• Hydroflouric acid leak, covering 0.62 miles and affecting 2,934 residents
Areas included: Schools, residences, recreation areas, businesses
Possible health effects: TOXIC; inhalation, ingestion or contact (skin, eyes) with vapors, dusts or substance may cause severe injury, burns, or death.

FIRST AID


• Boron trichloride leak, covering 1.5 miles, affecting 16,713 residents
Areas included: Schools, residences, recreation areas, businesses
Possible health effects: TOXIC; may be fatal if inhaled.

FIRST AID


• Arsine gas leak covering 1.5 miles in 10 minutes, affecting 16,713 residents
Areas included: Schools, residences, recreation areas, businesses
Possible health effects: · TOXIC; may be fatal if inhaled or absorbed through skin.


FIRST AID

• Chlorine liquid gas leak covering 0.31 miles, affecting 687 residents
Schools, residences, recreation areas, businesses
Possible health effects: · TOXIC; may be fatal if inhaled or absorbed through skin.

FIRST AID

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Map by Johan De Meulanaere, El Andar

= Residential area

Outer ring = Worst-case scenario, boron trichloride spill, 1.8 miles diameter