A portion of the Sam Houston Tollway in East Harris County was shut down for several hours last week when a truck “spilled some type of material” along the roadway, according to the Houston Chronicle. TranStar officials said the truck was carrying a “corrosive liquid chemical” and that people in the area were complaining of burning eyes and throats following the spill.
Although local media haven’t said what the corrosive chemical was, the brief highlights risks present when trucks carry these types of dangerous chemicals.
Corrosive chemicals are those that can cause severe and fast damage and injury to the skin. You can see trucks labeled with the corrosive label on our roadways every day, and you may even work in the presence of such chemicals.
The Office of Environmental Health & Safety with Radford University supplies this useful information on corrosive substances:
Chemicals that cause severe local injury to living tissue are called corrosive chemicals. Accidents involving splashes of corrosive chemicals are very common in the work place. Damage to the skin, respiratory system, digestive system and the eyes may result from contact with these substances or their vapors. The seriousness of the damage depends on the type and concentration of corrosive material, length of the exposure, the body part contacted, and first aid measures taken.
Usually minor exposure to corrosive materials is reversible and healing is normal. However, severe exposure may cause permanent damage. Depending on the severity of the exposure, damage to the skin may range from redness and peeling to severe burns and blistering. Chronic exposure may result in dermatitis. Exposure to the respiratory system may range from mild irritation, to inflammation, chest pain, difficulty in breathing, pulmonary edema, and death. Mild exposure to the eyes may cause pain, tearing, and irritation. Severe exposure may cause ulcerations, burns and blindness. Ingestion of corrosive chemicals may cause immediate pain and burning in the mouth, throat, and stomach followed by vomiting and diarrhea. Perforation of the esophagus and stomach is possible.
This obviously isn’t the same thing as a minor irritation from a chemical spill. The liquids classified as “corrosive” are highly dangerous.
Whether you work around chemicals or came into contact with them after colliding with a truck, the risk of permanent damage from corrosive chemical contact is serious.
Kevin Krist, Chemical Injury Attorney
At the Law Office of Kevin Krist, based in Houston, we are dedicated to helping people who have been seriously injured through no fault of their own. These kinds of injuries can happen under a variety of circumstances, but they can have lasting consequences.
If you’ve been involved in a Texas accident involving corrosive or otherwise dangerous chemicals, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Call me today to receive a free consultation on your case. Call 281-677-3966 now.
