In this incident on October 12th, 2019, Pro-Tow responded to a call about a tanker truck that had overturned on Highway 18 at Tiger Mountain, spilling thousands of pounds of fuel, oils and grease. We arrived at the accident with Pro-Enviro, the Washington State Patrol and the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) to handle this semi-truck spill recovery.
WSDOT activated their major incident response to stop traffic and close the highway so that our team could bring the necessary equipment and trained personnel. We immediately assessed the situation and created our recovery plan. To handle this semi-truck spill recovery, we required several specialized pieces of equipment.
Our Pro-Enviro division is called in anytime there is a vehicle fluid-related spill. Since oil and fuel spills are an environmental threat, we first focused on containing the spill on the roadway. Working with Bobcat Northwest and Pro-Enviro, the spill was collected and disposed of. From there, we then cleared debris from the accident and cleaned the road.
With the roads cleared, we were able to set up our specialized equipment to righten the semi tanker truck. We used specialized equipment from Miller Industries, Ashley Sling Inc. products and Sonetics wireless headsets, to upright the semi tanker truck. With the roads clear once more, we were able to reopen the busy roadway to let the traffic carry on through.
The Dangers Of Vehicle Fuel Spills
When a semi-truck accident includes a spill, it’s hazardous not only to people but especially so to the environment. If the diesel fuel is spilled on roads, it creates slippery services that are dangerous to traffic. As a mixture of different toxic chemicals, if any gets into groundwater it can contaminate drinking water or kill aquatic wildlife. Both oil and grease spills are the frequent culprit to loss of animal life, as the oil coats mammals’ fur leaving them at risk.
That’s why, during any semi-truck spill recovery incidents, Pro-Tow calls in Pro-Enviro to help quickly and safely contain the spills. Once any spills are contained, the fluids are cleared and properly disposed of. Here at Pro-Tow, we take the safety of our clients and our environment seriously, so we always work quickly to protect both.
