Ali Amin-Javaheri, Knowde CEO, has released a statement regarding the train derailment that occurred on February 3, 2023, in East Palestine, Ohio. The explosion of the rail car carrying vinyl chloride, and the controlled burn of the spill, released hydrogen chloride and phosgene into the air.

“By now, most have heard about the unfortunate events that took place in East Palestine, Ohio, on February 3,” said Amin-Javaheri. “While the cause of the train derailment and subsequent fire remains under investigation, there are some things we know for sure: an entire town had to evacuate their homes, hazardous chemicals got released into the environment, and, while fortunately there is no reported loss of human life, the future well-being of the people of East Palestine remains uncertain.”

“The train that derailed and caught fire carried products produced and sold by the chemical industry,” Amin-Javaheri continued. “Overnight, monomers such as vinyl chloride went from being the unsung heroes of the material world – building blocks in everything from PVC pipes to life-saving, medical-grade IV bags – to a significant health, safety, and environmental concern. While vinyl chloride is inherently toxic and dangerous, it is also used to create products that benefit members of our society in so many meaningful ways when handled safely.”

“Few industries take safety and accountability as seriously as the chemical industry. It’s that genuine concern for the well-being of society and the environment that has compelled Knowde to step up and do what we can to help the people of East Palestine. Today, Knowde will donate $5,000 to the Northern Ohio Region chapter of the American Red Cross. I encourage our partners and colleagues to do the same,” concluded Amin-Javaheri.

For more information, visit: https://www.knowde.com/.