This is how the release was reported on the WSBT website:

With the accompanying text:

Read the article yourself here:  Crews Respond to Hazardous Materials Leak Behind Lowe’s in South Bend

A leak of some sodium hydroxide.  Seems pretty simple, right?  But a close look at the picture and text of the article gives me pause.  I believe there is the potential for a violation of the Hazardous Material Regulations of the PHMSA/USDOT, and it’s not the leak.  Read the original article closely then see what I can discern from it.  After you’ve read my article tell me if you think I got it right or not.  What I intend to do here is compare the available information to the applicable regulations (the HMR) and then provide my conclusion. (more…)