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The Association of American Railroads (AAR) and Bureau of Explosives (BOE) recently presented 2008 Non-Accidental Release Grand Slam Awards to four chemical shippers: Federated Co-Operatives Ltd., NOVA Chemicals, PPG Industries and Valero Marketing and Supply Co.    

The awards recognize shippers that have no non-accidental releases (NARs) of hazardous materials on any railroad in a given year. Shippers must be nominated for the award by at least four Class Is.

NARs represent leaks, splashes and other releases from improperly secured or defective valves, fittings and tank shells, or venting of non-atmospheric gases from safety relief devices. The vast majority of reported NARs involve small quantities of hazardous materials, according to the AAR, which along with the bureau presented the awards at the 22nd annual AAR/BOE Hazardous Materials Seminar held May 19-21 in Kansas City, Mo.