Dangerous South Philly refinery chemical still poses threat to community

The dangerous task of disposing of a toxic chemical at the Philadelphia Energy Solutions refinery could put workers and the surrounding community at risk, according to city officials. Hydrofluoric acid is integral to the creation of high-octane gasoline. It's used at about 48 alkylation units in the United States -- including the South Philadelphia refinery, where an explosion in June destroyed the unit and led to the closure and bankruptcy of the financially troubled plant. But until the 33,000 gallons of hydrofluoric acid remaining at the site are treated and neutralized, the incident area remains unsafe and off-limits to anyone not wearing protective clothing. Philadelphia Fire Commissioner Adam Thiel said firefighters with the hazardous-materials unit continue to remain at the site 24/7. "Rest assured we will be down there sharing this risk with the community and doing our best to stand between the community and danger," Thiel said, "and we will continue to do that." Hydrofluoric acid is one of the most dangerous industrial chemicals in use.