A train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, near the Ohio-Pennsylvania border on February 3, 2023, resulted in the release of hazardous substances and chemical exposures among residents and Pennsylvania first responders. We aimed to analyze data collected from an Assessment of Chemical Exposure (ACE) survey to better understand unique exposures and health symptoms among Pennsylvania first responders and identify additional safety measures to protect responders in future hazardous materials spill events.

Descriptive statistics for ACE survey results from 114 Pennsylvania first responders were produced and relationships between exposures, health symptoms, and occupation type were examined using logistical regression models.

First responder occupation title and job duties were determinants of chemical exposure types, and specific chemical exposure types were associated with unique health outcomes. Firefighters and those with a job duty to suppress the fire were more likely to report contact with vapor/gas compared to all other roles and those with a duty of environmental monitoring. Contact with vapor/gas was associated with increased likelihood of reporting 2 or more health symptoms.

This analysis highlights the necessity of tailoring emergency response action plans and personal protective equipment considering first responder occupation title and to the specific duties conducted within their role.