A hose broke while a tanker truck containing trichloromethylbenzene (TCMB or phenylchloroforme) under nitrogen pressure (2 to 3 bar) was being unloaded at a chemical plant. The TCMB began producing hydrogen chloride fumes upon contact with the humidity in the air which prevented the operators from intervening rapidly. Of the 24 t of chemical product spilled in the unloading zone in 15 min., 16 tons were recovered in the catchpit and 8 tons impregnated an 200 m² earthen zone in the surrounding area. Part of the product was able to be recovered using absorbent products. The accident, caused by a broken coupling on the container at the flange junction, was aggravated by the excessive reaction time and the disconnection of the nitrogen pressure. The Inspectorate requested the operator to submit a report on the origins and causes of the phenomenon, is consequences and the measures needed to remedy the situation. The polluted excavated soil and the absorbent cleanup products had to be specifically treated.