Training for Methanol Explosion and Sulfuric Acid Leak Scenarios
Presenting a Leading Response Model for Complex Disasters
Goyang Special City in Gyeonggi Province (Mayor Lee Donghwan) announced on the 5th that it had successfully completed the "2025 Chemical Accident Response Joint Drill" held on the 4th at the Wonneung Water Quality Restoration Center in Goyang City, aiming for the 3 Safety Administrations (Economic Stability, Senior Safety, and Life Safety) that prioritize citizens' safety in daily life.
Goyang Special City is conducting the "2025 Chemical Accident Response Joint Training" held on the 4th at the Wonneung Water Quality Restoration Center in Goyang City, aiming for the 3 Safety Administrations (Economic Stability, Senior Safety, and Life Safety) that prioritize citizens' safety in daily life. Provided by Goyang Special City
This drill differed from others in that it simulated not only a simple chemical leak accident but also a worst-case scenario involving a methanol explosion followed by a sulfuric acid leak, and subsequently, the spread of toxic hydrogen sulfide gas as a secondary disaster.
The city presented the "Goyang-style Leading Response Model" by scientifically verifying its response system in cooperation with relevant agencies under extreme crisis conditions.
The drill was presided over by First Deputy Mayor Park Wonseok, who urged participating organizations to fulfill their duties and strengthen cooperation. More than 50 personnel from relevant agencies, including the Goyang City Environmental Policy Division, Disaster Response Office, Goyang Fire Station, Army 9th Infantry Division, and Han River Basin Environmental Office, took part in the drill, while over 70 observers, including Citizen Safety Monitors, attended to underscore the importance of the exercise.
Immediately after the incident was reported, the city activated the Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters and, with the Goyang Fire Station at the center, launched a swift initial response that included rescuing people, blocking stormwater drains, and sending evacuation text alerts to residents. The Army 9th Infantry Division and Han River Basin Environmental Office deployed field analysis vehicles to detect methanol and hydrogen sulfide and to establish containment zones.
The Goyang Fire Station suppressed the spread of methanol vapor and removed toxic gases using fine water mist technology to prevent reactions with sulfuric acid, while the Army 9th Infantry Division extensively decontaminated the affected area using portable decontaminators and K-10 decontamination vehicles.
Finally, a precise residual contamination measurement was conducted to confirm that no contaminants remained, and the safe transfer and disposal of decontamination waste was thoroughly completed.
A city official stated, "This joint drill is a leading example that proves the robust organic cooperation system among relevant agencies even in complex disaster situations," adding, "Based on the results of the drill, we will further refine the local chemical accident response manual and do our utmost to build a safety network that ensures citizens can feel secure."
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