Chlorine Gas Incident at Aqaba Port – Key Risks & Implications for Chemical Logistics
As a Shenzhen-based international freight forwarder specializing in chemical and dangerous goods transport by sea and air, we are sharing this technical briefing to help global importers understand recent events and reinforce safe handling protocols.
On June 27, at Jordan's Port of Aqaba, a chlorine storage tank ruptured during lifting operations, releasing approximately 25 tons of liquefied chlorine gas. The dense yellow-green toxic cloud rapidly spread across the port area, resulting in 14 fatalities and 265 injuries. This incident highlights critical risks in the maritime transport and port handling of Class 2.3 toxic gases under the IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code).
Chlorine (UN 1017) is widely used in chlor-alkali production and remains integral to global manufacturing supply chains. Key hazard characteristics include:
- High density (≈1.47 times heavier than air), causing it to accumulate in low-lying or enclosed areas.
- Strong toxicity and irritancy; hydrolysis forms hydrochloric and hypochlorous acids, severely damaging respiratory tracts and eyes, with potential fatality from pulmonary edema.
Critical Reminder: In chemical logistics, improper securing, lifting equipment failure, or container integrity issues can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
Historical Cases Illustrate Common Failure Modes
- Wuhu Ronghui Chemical (2020): Fatigue cracking in loading arms caused leakage during transfer.
- Hebei Lixing Rubber (2017): Unauthorized heating coils accelerated pipeline corrosion, leading to rupture.
- Chongqing Tianyuan Chemical (2004): Accumulation of nitrogen trichloride due to corrosion triggered explosion.
- Jinxi Chemical General Plant (1995): Displacement of a rail tanker severed connected piping.
Safe Transport Requirements
For safe transport, shippers must ensure:
- Full compliance with IMDG / IATA DGR classification, packaging, marking, and documentation.
- Structural soundness of tanks, cylinders, and lifting/loading gear certified per design standards.
- Verified emergency response plans, including neutralization (e.g., alkaline agents) and isolation measures.
⚠️ Emergency Response Guidance: During incidents, personnel must evacuate upwind, avoid low-lying routes, and use improvised protection (e.g., sodium bicarbonate solution on cloth over nose/mouth if no respirator available).
Recommendations for Importers
Importers should confirm suppliers provide:
- Valid SDS (Safety Data Sheet)
- GHS/transport classifications
- UN certification for packaging
Professional testing and classification services—such as hazardous chemical identification, SDS authoring, and regulatory alignment—are essential for cross-border compliance and risk mitigation.