Responding to Environmental Hazards With Real Solutions

On February 3, 2023, at 8:55 p.m., a Norfolk Southern train (Train 32N) derailed in East Palestine, Ohio. The train, en route from Madison, Illinois to Conway, Pennsylvania, included 141 loaded cars and 9 empty cars, 20 of which were carrying hazardous materials. These included:

• Vinyl Chloride (Chloroethene)
• Butyl Acrylate
• 2-Ethylhexyl Acrylate
• Ethylene Glycol Mono Butyl Ether
• Isobutylene
• Combustible Liquids
• Benzene Residue

The crash led to chemical spills, fires, and a controlled burn that released large plumes of toxic chemicals into the air-posing immediate and long-term risks to the health of the surrounding population.

In response, Germ Solutions USA partnered with community leaders in East Palestine to donate and install over 500 air and surface purification units. These systems were deployed to homes, schools, and public buildings to help remove contaminants, support respiratory health, and offer peace of mind to those impacted.