Hazardous Materials Hotline©
December 15, 2025
Training, Education, and Conference Information
The National Fire Academy has immediate openings for the current academic quarter and has opened the application period for the spring quarter. The Florida Hazardous Materials Symposium and Teams Competition takes place next month and there are still openings for teams that wish to compete.
Discussion: The NFA has already cancelled classes due to low enrollment and pulled classes off the schedule entirely. The Academy offers no cost training and provides travel stipends and lodging.
CSB Releases Video of Yenkin-Majestic Fire
The Chemical Safety Board has released a video of the Yenkin-Majestic explosion and fire to support its investigation report into the 2021 incident.
Discussion: CSB reports and investigations are critical for reducing the risk to chemical facilities and communities. They also provide information to support planning, training, and preparedness.
NTSB Releases Preliminary Information on OK Ammonia Leak
The US National Transportation Safety Board has released preliminary information regarding the November anhydrous ammonia leak in Weatherford, OK.
Discussion: The incident resulted in the entire cargo leaking resulted in multiple injuries and a large scale evacuation. All communities are at risk of similar incidents and lessons learned can provide value to responders and emergency planners.
Hazards at Beauty Salons
While not often thought of as a high-hazard area, beauty salons and supply stores carry a variety of materials, including flammable liquids, oxidizers, and toxic chemicals. A recent study identified hazards associated with nail polish on workers.
Discussion: Hazardous materials are pervasive in our communities and emergency responders should become familiar with their location and response procedures to mitigate their threat.
Coming to a Neighborhood Near You – Nuclear Microreactors
The development of commercially viable, nuclear microreactors continues to grow, with advocates stressing their need to address the continuing growing need for electricity. While still a few years away, microreactors may be deployed in communities, supporting an over-burdened electric grid.
Discussion: Emergency planners and responders should become aware of current and emerging technologies in order to prepare for the challenges that they may face.
NFCC on the Threat of Lithium-Ion Battery Fires
The National Fire Chiefs Council (UK) has released a paper discussing the delay in safety standards related to the deployment of lithium ion battery technology.
Discussion: Lithium-ion batteries hazards, including fires, continue to challenge emergency responders. Safety standards and environmental controls continue to develop, but lag behind the rising threat. Responders, emergency planners, and community risk-reduction personnel should be familiar with codes and standards and become active in the standards making process to address current and emerging hazards.
Chemical of the Week
The latest chemical of the week worksheets (difluoromethane and triacetone triperoxide) are out. The COW provides weekly chemical research training, reflecting incident research during initial response to hazardous materials incidents.
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About the Author:
Dave Donohue is a hazardous materials course developer, educator, and trainer with experience at the local, regional and national level. He is also a Master Exercise Practitioner, firefighter, and emergency manager.
