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LLICATC <br /> V I N E Y A R D S <br /> October 15, 1997 <br /> Mr. Art Bentley <br /> San Joaquin County <br /> Office of Emergency Services <br /> 222 E. Weber Avenue <br /> Stockton, CA 95202 <br /> Dear Mr. Bentley: <br /> From our telephone conversation of October 15, 1997, you requested a written report of the small <br /> sulfur dioxide release we experienced the previous evening. To comply with that request, we present <br /> the following information. <br /> At approximately 8:30 PM on Tuesday, October 14, 1997, the sight glass on a sulfur dioxide <br /> dispensing canister was ruptured, releasing liquid sulfur dioxide onto the pavement in the 1000's Tank <br /> Farm at our facility. Subsequent vaporization of the liquid then released sulfur dioxide gas into the air <br /> in the immediate area. Cellar personnel responded by immersing the leaking canister in a barrel of <br /> caustic soda solution to contain and neutralize the remaining sulfur dioxide per manufacturer's MSDS. <br /> During this incident, the two employees handling the canister were exposed to the evolving gas and <br /> indicated they felt some breathing discomfort and eye irritation. As a precaution these two employees <br /> were transported to the hospital for observation. Following the physician's examination, both <br /> employees were released to full duty. <br /> All other personnel were notified of the event and remained a safe distance from the area. <br /> Diagnosis of the cause was traced to a broken weld attaching the canister to its stand. The break <br /> allowed the canister to twist independently of the stand creating sufficient stress on the sight glass <br /> causing it to fracture and release the chemical. It is estimated that approximately 30 pounds of liquid <br /> sulfur dioxide actually leaked from the canister before lt was immersed in the neutralizing solution. <br /> Corrective actions being taken are to repair the damaged canister and inspect all other canisters to <br /> insure safe integrity of all components and repair when necessary. <br /> Should you have any questions about this information, please do not hesitate to contact me at (209) <br /> 824-3600. <br /> Sincerely, <br /> Stephen A. Rapp <br /> Environmental Health and Safety Manager <br /> Cc: Tom Smith,Vice President of Winemaking & Operations <br /> Jim Thompson, Director of Maintenance& Engineering <br /> • <br /> 12001 South Hi3hNca% 99 • Manteca California 95336-9209 • B.W. 4094 <br /> (309) 524-5600 • FAX (309) 324-3400 <br />