Vinyl chloride exposure risks explored after Ohio derailment

Jun 18, 2023

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The science of safety can be complex. When chemicals spill or burn the consequences can be tough to see.

What scientists know about the most prominent chemical burned and released into the environment in East Palestine is still unfolding.

As Pittsburgh's Action News 4's Sheldon Ingram explains, one researcher who studies vinyl chloride says it can be dangerous, even in small amounts.

A UPMC professor discusses what she's seen from studying vinyl chloride in the video above.

Fire is fuel for chemical reactions inside and outside of the lab.

So, when all that vinyl chloride burned in East Palestine, scientists say its combustion likely created new toxic chemicals called dioxins.

But right now, no one knows for sure.

Watch below as East Palestine residents and Pennsylvanians call on responders to look for them.