Tankerman Files Suit Against BWC Terminals LLC Over Houston Port Chemical Release
A Toxic Cloud Over the Houston Ship Channel: When Safety Fails
The Houston Ship Channel, a vital artery for global commerce, has recently become the site of a concerning incident raising serious questions about safety protocols and corporate responsibility. On December 27, 2025, a catastrophic structural failure at the BWC Terminals facility resulted in a large release of sulfuric acid, a highly dangerous and toxic substance. A tankerman working on a vessel nearby was severely injured, prompting him to file a lawsuit against BWC Terminals LLC and BWC Texas Terminals LLC, alleging negligence and gross negligence. This incident underscores the potential dangers faced by maritime workers and the critical need for stringent safety measures in industrial facilities.
The Incident: A Catastrophic Failure
At approximately 2:00 a.m., an overhead walkway at the BWC Terminals facility located at 15627 San Jacinto Port Boulevard in Houston, Harris County, Texas, broke free from a tank. The falling walkway punctured a pipeline containing sulfuric acid, leading to a massive release into the surrounding area. The tankerman, working aboard a vessel on the Houston Ship Channel approximately 500 feet from the facility, heard a loud crash and observed a large gas cloud emanating from the terminal.
According to the lawsuit, no alarms, warnings, or notifications were provided by the facility operators. Shortly after, the tankerman was enveloped by the toxic substance, immediately suffering severe physical injuries, including burning lungs, shortness of breath, throat pain, nausea, dizziness, and skin irritation. He was later diagnosed with chemical exposure and inflammation of his lungs. The petition alleges he continues to experience debilitating physical and mental injuries affecting his lungs, throat, skin, and other parts of his body.
The Lawsuit: Allegations of Negligence
Represented by Houston-based personal injury law firm Arnold & Itkin, the tankerman’s lawsuit, filed in Harris County District Court on December 31, 2025, alleges negligence and gross negligence against BWC Terminals LLC and BWC Texas Terminals LLC. The lawsuit claims the companies:
- Released sulfuric acid and other toxic substances into the Houston Ship Channel.
- Failed to properly train and supervise employees and contractors.
- Created and allowed dangerous conditions to exist.
- Failed to warn or notify the worker of unsafe and hazardous conditions.
- Cut costs of maintenance at the expense of safety.
- Violated applicable rules, national, state, and federal ordinances, statutes, and regulations, including OSHA regulations.
The petition seeks punitive damages, alleging the defendants acted with flagrant and malicious disregard for the worker’s health and safety despite being objectively aware of the extreme risk posed.
Sulfuric Acid: A Dangerous Substance
Sulfuric acid is a highly corrosive and toxic chemical compound. Exposure can lead to a range of health problems, including:
- Skin burns: Direct contact can cause severe burns and tissue damage.
- Respiratory issues: Inhalation of fumes or mist can damage the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs, leading to breathing difficulties and lung inflammation.
- Eye damage: Exposure can cause severe eye irritation, burns, and even blindness.
- Other symptoms: Nausea, dizziness, throat pain, and skin irritation are also common.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns of the dangers of sulfuric acid exposure, emphasizing the need for proper safety precautions when handling this substance.
The Broader Context: Safety Concerns in the Houston Ship Channel
This incident is not an isolated one. The Houston Ship Channel, a major industrial hub, has a history of chemical releases and safety violations. Environmental Integrity Project reported that air pollution monitoring conducted by the Houston Health Department in 2019 and 2020 recorded levels of formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, along the Houston Ship Channel that pose health risks to those living and working nearby. A report from ProPublica noted that Houston’s plants and refineries make metro region a cancer-causing pollution hotspot. These incidents raise concerns about the cumulative impact of industrial pollution on the health and safety of workers and residents in the surrounding communities.
What Can Be Done?
The lawsuit against BWC Terminals highlights the importance of accountability and the need for companies to prioritize safety over profits. To prevent future incidents, several steps can be taken:
- Stricter Regulations and Enforcement: Regulatory agencies must enforce stricter safety standards and conduct regular inspections of industrial facilities.
- Improved Training and Supervision: Companies must provide adequate training and supervision to employees and contractors working with hazardous materials.
- Investment in Infrastructure Maintenance: Regular maintenance and upgrades of infrastructure are essential to prevent structural failures and chemical releases.
- Prompt Warning Systems: Facilities must have effective warning systems in place to alert workers and the public in the event of a chemical release.
- Community Involvement: Engaging with local communities and addressing their concerns about environmental and safety issues is crucial.
The Role of Maritime Lawyers
Maritime workers who are injured due to negligence have the right to seek compensation for their injuries. Maritime lawyers specializing in chemical exposure and maritime accidents can help victims navigate the complex legal process and pursue their claims. They can investigate the incident, gather evidence, and represent the injured worker in court to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve. Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Several law firms in the Houston area specialize in maritime injuries, including:
- Arnold & Itkin
- Patrick Daniel Law
- Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A.
- The Cobos Law Firm
- Morrow & Sheppard LLP
- Johnson Garcia LLP
Moving Forward: A Call for Accountability and Change
The sulfuric acid release at the BWC Terminals facility serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of industrial operations and the importance of prioritizing safety. The lawsuit filed by the injured tankerman is a step towards holding the responsible parties accountable and ensuring that similar incidents are prevented in the future. It is imperative that companies operating in the Houston Ship Channel and other industrial areas take proactive measures to protect the health and safety of their workers and the surrounding communities.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a maritime accident or chemical release, it is essential to seek legal advice from an experienced maritime lawyer. Contact our firm today for a consultation to discuss your rights and options.