Chemical tank falls into sea after collision at Tuas Second Link: NEA urges public to avoid water activities
Rohaizat, Jane
A trailer carrying chemicals plunged into the sea after colliding with another trailer off the Tuas Second Link on July 24 at about 5.41pm.
According to Malay Mail, the trailer was heading to Johor, Malaysia from Tuas, Singapore.
Stompers Rohaizat and Jane alerted Stomp to several videos and photos posted online of the incident
In a TikTok video, one trailer is seen sideswiping another in the far-left lane, causing the chemical tank, containing propylene glycol, to detach from one trailer and fall overboard.
A Fire Rescue Tender (FRT) from Johor was immediately dispatched to the scene. A hazardous materials (Hazmat) unit was also deployed.
No leakage was detected, and there were no signs of oil or foam on the water surface. The bridge itself was also not contaminated.
One of the drivers sustained a hand injury and was taken to hospital, while the other driver was unharmed.
A few motorcycle riders were also reportedly injured in the accident.
Propylene glycol is a common, low-toxicity chemical used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. It is biodegradable and may decompose by half in just a few days.
Singapore's National Environment Agency (NEA) has issued a precautionary advisory, advising the public to avoid primary-contact water activities and recreational fishing near the Tuas Second Link and areas around Raffles Marina. These include water sports where full body contact or water ingestion is likely.
NEA further explained that propylene glycol may reduce dissolved oxygen levels in nearby Lim Chu Kang fish farms. The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has been alerted and fish farms have been advised to monitor water and fish conditions and be ready with mitigation steps.
National water agency PUB is closely monitoring seawater intake at Singapore's desalination plants.
The incident occurred just one day after Singapore and Malaysia carried out a joint chemical spill simulation exercise at the Tuas Second Link.
