DIPRA Minute: How Dangerous is Vinyl Chloride?

The derailment of a train in East Palestine, Ohio on February 3rd prompted federal authorities to investigate and assess the damage from toxins released from the chemicals that were being transported on the train. More information has emerged about the resulting effects of the chemicals, including vinyl chloride, the highly toxic chemical used to produce plastic products like PVC piping, have had on the area.

Residents are rightfully very concerned about the long-term health ramifications for humans and animals, as well as the effects on the surrounding environment.

Five rail cars' worth of vinyl chloride—a chemical that can cause serious health problems in humans at high exposure levels over long periods—were intentionally burned off, causing a temporary evacuation of parts of East Palestine.

Vinyl chloride is a known carcinogen that poses serious health risks if inhaled or ingested.

Beyond the concerns that have resulted from the OH incident, researchers have found dangerous chemicals, such as vinyl chloride, benzene, and others, are produced when PVC water distribution pipes are heated to extreme temperatures and melt. These toxic compounds then seep into the drinking water supply.

Learn more about the hazards of vinyl chloride and PVC:

• DIPRA’s Facts & Figures: The Dangers of Using PVC Pipe
• Prioritization of Toxic Air Contaminants - Children's Environmental Health Protection Act

DIPRA, through education and advocacy

 for the environment, sustainability, and safety benefits of Ductile iron pipe (made up of 90 percent recycled materials), is the natural choice for drinking water delivery systems.

Please contact any of our regional engineers with questions about the installation, application, and benefits of using Ductile iron pipe in your next water infrastructure design.

Thank you,

Patrick Hogan

President, DIPRA