Press Release  MassDEP Penalizes Astro Chemicals for Failing to Report Hazardous Materials Spill

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) has assessed a penalty of $25,000 against Astro Chemicals, Inc., a Springfield-based chemical supplier, for failing to comply with hazardous materials release notification requirements after a significant sodium hydroxide solution spill in 2024.

On July 29, 2024, Astro personnel transferred a 50 percent sodium hydroxide solution from a railcar at its facility at 126 Memorial Drive in Springfield. During the transfer, an operational error caused a valve to be inadvertently left open, releasing the solution onto the soil and rail ballast at the property. 

The volume of sodium hydroxide solution released was initially estimated to be 100 gallons but was later determined to be up to 3,200 gallons. Astro personnel reportedly became aware of the spill more than an hour after it occurred and promptly began containment and control efforts. 

Because the released volume of sodium hydroxide exceeded the Massachusetts Reportable Quantity of 50 pounds, Astro was required to notify MassDEP within two hours of becoming aware of the spill. However, the company notified MassDEP the following day, in violation of regulations.    

Astro subsequently entered into a Consent Order with MassDEP that imposed a $25,000 penalty. Recognizing the company’s prompt efforts to initiate cleanup, MassDEP agreed to suspend $2,500 of the penalty. The company is currently conducting assessment and remediation as required by the regulations.

"When a reportable quantity of hazardous material is released, responsible parties are required to immediately notify their local fire department and MassDEP," said Michael Gorski, director of MassDEP’s Western Regional Office in Springfield. "This assures timely response, assessment, mitigation and cleanup to protect both the public and the environment."

Releases of hazardous materials, oil spills and leaks, and the contamination of drinking water or other threats to the public must be reported immediately. Additional details regarding notification requirements, including an online tool to search by chemical name, are available online by visiting Report a Spill or Environmental Emergency.

MassDEP's mission is to protect and enhance the Commonwealth’s natural resources – air, water and land – to provide for the health, safety and welfare of all people, and to ensure a clean and safe environment for future generations. In carrying out this mission, MassDEP commits to address and advance environmental justice and equity for all people of the Commonwealth; to provide meaningful, inclusive opportunities for people to participate in agency decisions that affect their lives; and to ensure a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.

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