There is an alternative!

Instead of hydrofluoric acid, Big West could use sulfuric acid or other safer alternative chemicals, which would not pose as serious a risk to refinery workers or residents of the surrounding communities.  Of the 148 petroleum refineries in the United States, two-thirds use sulfuric acid or other safer alternatives.  These alternatives would diminish the appeal of the refinery as a terrorist target, and mitigate the public health and safety consequences of an accident.

FACTS
Bakersfield Could Become a Terrorist Target
Department of Homeland Security identified hydrofluoric acid as a target for terrorism

Most Refineries in the US use Safer Chemicals
Two-thirds of US refineries have switched to safer alternatives

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NEWS
Hydrofluoric Acid In the News
Deadly accidents from the use of Hydrofluoric Acid have occurred around the country

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