Title: Research implications: an evaluation of residential evacuation practices following a train derailment/oleum spill incident

Authors: Susan M. Smith, Tyler Kress, Mary Jane Tremethick, Sean Lennon, Alan Lawson, Holt Clark, Jerry Harnish

Addresses: UT Safety Center, The University of Tennessee, 1914 Andy Holt Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37996–2710, USA. ' UT Safety Center, The University of Tennessee, 1914 Andy Holt Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37996–2710, USA. ' UT Safety Center, The University of Tennessee, 1914 Andy Holt Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37996–2710, USA. ' UT Safety Center, The University of Tennessee, 1914 Andy Holt Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37996–2710, USA. ' UT Safety Center, The University of Tennessee, 1914 Andy Holt Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37996–2710, USA. ' UT Safety Center, The University of Tennessee, 1914 Andy Holt Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37996–2710, USA. ' UT Safety Center, The University of Tennessee, 1914 Andy Holt Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37996–2710, USA

Abstract: This research paper outlines the specific elements involved in the evacuation of approximately 3000 residents following a train derailment in the spring of 2002 in a suburban community in the Southeastern United States (USA). The derailment caused the release of an oleum (sulphuric acid) spill/plume. A major focus is the post-accident assessment of the procedures used for the evacuation, including recommended improvements/modifications. These recommendations were designed to improve future compliance with evacuation procedures in residential neighbourhoods.

Keywords: residential evacuation; train derailment; post-incident assessment; oleum spill; emergency management; sulphuric acid spill; railway accident; evacuation procedures; residential neighbourhoods; USA; United States.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEM.2007.015732

International Journal of Emergency Management, 2007 Vol.4 No.4, pp.600 - 609

Published online: 11 Nov 2007 *

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