NSTAR Mineral Oil Release; Brighton, MA

Brighton, MA | 2008-Jun-19

Initial Notification: Report -- First and Final: Sector Boston's Update: EPA OSCs Brennan and Condon arrived at the incident and coordinated with the Incident Commander and MADEP. NSTAR and environmental response contractor Clean Harbors are on-scene addressing released oil in Muddy River. Source of release is an undergound conduit containing high voltage electrical line and insulated with mineral oil (cable oil). Cause of the release is still under investigation. Initial estimated quantity of 5000 gallons appears to be accurate. Release is secured with containment and recovery operations ongoing at locations along the Muddy River. An estimated 1000-2000 gallons may reach the Charles River. NSTAR/Clean Harbor have deployed assets to contain and recover the release if it reaches the Charles River. -------------------- SSC Report: SSC was contacted at 1230 EDT by Sector Boston with concerns relative to the release, even though it was some distance from the coastal zone. They wanted to both be prepared to respond and to provide assistance to the EPA OSC, if such assistance were to become necessary. NOAA/ERD chemist and senior life scientist were consulted. Toxicity and potential for actionable impacts to the marine environment were deemed low due to the nature of the product (Luminol Type-2, a Petro-Canada product). SSC reported to Sector Boston and briefed the key response personnel. No further action from the USCG or NOAA is anticipated. No further request for assistance from EPA is expected. Case Closed Steve Lehmann SSC