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RECEIVED <br /> MAR 2 2 2011 <br /> Pacific Ethanol, Inc. <br /> ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH <br /> PERMIT/SERVICES <br /> March 18, 2011 <br /> Stacy Rivera, REHS <br /> San Joaquin County Environmental Health Department <br /> 600 E. Main Street <br /> Stockton, CA 95202-3029 <br /> RE: Sulfuric Acid release <br /> Dear Stacy: <br /> This letter serves as the required written report following a release of a <br /> hazardous material from its primary containment vessel. On February 20, 2011 a <br /> faulty sulfuric acid pump located in the acid system containment dike was <br /> replaced with a small diaphragm pump. During that activity approximately 1 pint <br /> of 93-95% sulfuric acid was released and was not properly cleaned up. Rain <br /> events exacerbated the problem which was also not properly addressed. In <br /> addition to the repair, a y-strainer cap was found to be leaking on March 11, <br /> 2011. The leak was minor; however it added to the existing condition. The y- <br /> strainer was immediately repaired and the acidic water was pumped back into <br /> our process, where the sulfuric acid is usually introduced. The small amount of <br /> remaining liquid was neutralized with soda ash. The soda ash and damaged <br /> concrete was cleaned up on March 17, 2011. The waste containers were labeled <br /> as hazardous waste and are scheduled for removal during the week of March 21, <br /> 2011. <br /> The contingency plan was not utilized as required and that information was <br /> communicated to both management and plant personnel. Management was <br /> directed to address hazards immediately and plant personnel were directed to <br /> capture hazardous materials into the appropriate containers during maintenance <br /> and/or repairs and to immediately clean up a spill as soon as it is discovered. <br /> Management and personnel were reminded of location of the existing spill kits at <br /> the plant. An additional spill kit will be located next to the sulfuric acid <br /> containment and be incorporated into the ICP revision. <br /> 209.235.0370 <br /> 209.235.0376 FAX <br /> 3028 NAVY DRIVE <br /> STOCKTON, CALIFORNIA 95206 <br /> www.pacificethanol.net <br />