| Crude Oil |
Black liquid |
Similar to gasoline or diesel fuel* |
- Flows with the land profile
- Flow depends on temperature and viscosity. Can be thick and slow moving or light and able to move quickly.
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- Extremely flammable and explosive, especially when first released
- Suffocation can occur if gas displaces the oxygen in an enclosed area
- Benzene is a toxic and volatile element in crude oil; benzene levels in crude vary greatly
|
| Synthetic Crude, Condensate or Refined Products |
Light brown or yellow liquid |
Similar to gasoline or diesel fuel* |
- Flows with the land profile
|
- Extremely flammable and explosive
|
| Natural Gas Liquid |
Steam-like cloud or frost-like appearance on ground |
Similar to gas, but much stronger and extremely unpleasant |
- Heavier than air
- Stays close to the ground in low-lying areas
- Can displace oxygen
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- Extremely flammable and explosive
|
| Diluent |
Clear to brown liquid |
Sulfur-like or rotten egg odor |
- Less dense and more fluid than crude oil
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- Extremely flammable, especially if vapors from the liquid are ignited
- Potential explosive hazard if vapors seep into enclosed spaces
- Suffocation can occur if gas displaces the oxygen in an enclosed area
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