Joint Base Charleston, SC, MER Responds to Jet Fuel Leak

7.18.2014

JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, SC -A team of workers from Joint Base Charleston, Moran Environmental Recovery (MER), and local agencies actively responded to a fuel leak that occurred on the base July 16, 2014, due to a mechanical failure.

An estimated 1,200 gallons of Jet Fuel A, escaped through a storm drain as a result of torrential rains during the cleanup effort, transporting the fuel under the road and into an off-base ditch. MER was called to the base as the emergency response contractor, and immediately deployed to the areas impacted off base.

"We have three priorities in responding to the leak: the health and safety of residents and cleanup crews, an expeditious cleanup, and preventing further spills," said Col. Jeffrey DeVore, 628th Air Base Wing commander.

Although Jet Fuel A is not a carcinogen and poses no immediate health risks, prolonged exposure may cause irritation to the eyes and skin, and it is extremely harmful if swallowed, according to DHEC and EPA officials.

As a precautionary measure residents and members of the community were encouraged to stay clear of the drainage ditch until cleanup efforts were complete.

A multi-pronged team comprised of base civil engineers, members of the Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Health and Environmental Control and Moran Environmental Recovery worked together to control and remove the spilled fuel.