Multiple Workers Killed in Paper Mill Implosion
Multiple workers have been killed and more are feared missing after a catastrophic implosion at a paper mill in Washington state. The incident occurred at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging facility on Tuesday morning, when a 303,000-litre tank containing a corrosive chemical mixture ruptured, causing what authorities described as a 'mass casualty' event.
At least ten people were injured in the blast, with some suffering from chemical burns and inhalation injuries. Fire and Rescue Chief Scott Goldstein confirmed that the severity of injuries ranged from minor to critical. A firefighter responding to the scene is believed to be among the injured.
Authorities have not released the exact number of fatalities or missing workers, citing ongoing recovery operations and the need to notify next of kin. 'We have information on that, but we’re not releasing that information,' Goldstein said when asked about the missing.
The implosion occurred at 7:15 a.m. at the Nippon Dynawave facility, a pulp and paper mill located along the Columbia River. The plant employs approximately 1,000 people and produces materials for tissues, printing paper, cups, plates, and cartons.
The tank that imploded was about 60% full and contained 'white liquor,' a corrosive substance primarily composed of sodium hydroxide and sodium sulfide. This chemical is used to break down wood for kraft paper production, a durable material used in packaging and shopping bags.
According to Mike Gorsuch, battalion chief with the Longview Fire Department, first responders decontaminated patients and transported them to hospitals in Longview and Vancouver. About 40 firefighters and paramedics, along with a regional hazmat team, responded to the scene.
Following the tank's rupture, the white liquor spilled into a drainage ditch. The Washington State Department of Ecology sent a team to evaluate environmental impacts. Authorities emphasized that there is no immediate threat to the public.
The cause of the implosion remains under investigation. 'We’re dealing with life safety concerns and incident stabilization at this point,' Goldstein stated.
Family members of workers gathered at the company's visitor entrance seeking information about their loved ones but declined to comment to reporters.
