Did the damaged train cars have proper placarding and documentation?
NDEQ’s understanding is that the train cars had the proper number — 1993 – which is based on a classification from the Emergency Response Guidebook. The number refers to a group of chemicals considered combustible liquids with similar characteristics. They are grouped in the same classification because the same response procedures need to be followed for these chemicals if a release occurs. Information concerning the exact content of each car is kept by the train engineer and after the derailment the information was given to the emergency response personnel. Were the train cars handled and transported properly? Damaged cars were moved to a site within the city for temporary storage until permits could be arranged for their transport. Prior to transport, BNSF removed as much liquid free product as possible to minimize the possibility of additional spillage. BNSF realized the error of storing cars in the city after they received complaints about the odor. The cars were then moved outsid
