Partnering for Safer EO Transfers: Inside Our Hockley Training Day

Safe handling of hazardous materials doesn't happen by accident. It takes preparation, shared knowledge, and a willingness to keep improving. On September 9, 2026, that spirit came to life at VLS Hockley, where our VLS Rail team hosted a full day of training ON HOW TO PROPERLY USE AN EO Tank Car Transfer Kit.

The session brought together some of the most respected names in the chemical industry — Shell Chemicals, INEOS Oxide, Sasol Chemical, and Indorama Ventures — for a focused look at the safe transfer of ethylene oxide (EO). The goal was simple: sharpen procedures, learn from experience, and strengthen the practices that keep people and communities protected.

Ethylene oxide demands careful, precise handling at every step. That's why the day centered on real procedures, honest reflection, and practical skill-building.

The morning began at the Harris County Community Center, where the group gathered for introductions and a detailed review of current EO tank car transfer procedures. Attendees discussed past incidents, including when a transfer is required and the reasons a transfer might not be conducted. A Federal Railroad Administration (FRA)-led discussion on field transfer safety gave the group direct insight from regulators who understand what safe operations look like in the field.

These conversations set the tone for the rest of the day. When experienced professionals compare notes on what has worked — and what hasn't — everyone leaves better prepared.

After the morning session, the group moved next door to our VLS Environmental Solutions facility in Hockley, TX for the hands-on portion of the day. This is where the discussion turned into action.

Participants set up transfer equipment, walked through the equipment layout and trailer, and reviewed opportunities for improvement together. Over lunch and throughout the afternoon, the team examined every part of the process, from setup to equipment breakdown. Seeing the equipment up close gave attendees a shared understanding of the workflow and a chance to raise questions in a real-world setting.

Events like this depend on leadership and initiative. We want to thank Dave Douglas, who spearheaded the idea and asked VLS to host and participate. His vision brought the right people together around a shared commitment to safety.

We also thank Roy Smith, our Director of Operations, whose team made the day run smoothly and welcomed our industry partners to Hockley. Their work reflects the standard VLS brings to every project — thorough, collaborative, and focused on doing things right.

Collaboration is how the industry gets safer. When leading companies share knowledge and refine their procedures side by side, the benefits reach far beyond any single facility — they extend to our teams, our partners, and the communities we serve.

We're proud of the work accomplished in Hockley and grateful to every partner who joined us. Together, we're advancing safe, compliant, and effective EO transfer practices.

Interested in learning more about VLS Rail services and how we support safe, responsible material handling? Reach out to our team to start the conversation.