Over Memorial Day weekend in May 2019, a critical valve failure at a refinery in Northern California led to an unplanned release of hydrocarbon product into a nearby slough. In the early hours of the morning, a rapid and effective response was essential to prevent environmental damage.

Harbo Boom was deployed directly at the source of the release. Just two responders, without the need for heavy equipment or large crews, deployed two Harbo Boom cartridges—30 meters in total—in only 17 minutes. The rapid containment successfully stopped the spill from spreading into surrounding waterways.

Unlike traditional containment systems, which often require cranes, vessels, and significant manpower, Harbo Boom’s lightweight and modular design enabled immediate response with minimal resources. This not only reduced the environmental risk but also helped avoid regulatory escalation and operational downtime.

This incident highlights the critical role Harbo Boom can play in industrial emergency response. Its speed, simplicity, and reliability make it an indispensable tool for refineries and facilities aiming to strengthen their environmental preparedness.