Overview
- A storage tank at the Nippon Dynawave Longview mill failed on Tuesday, May 26, releasing a large volume of corrosive 'white liquor' and killing 11 workers.
- Washington’s Department of Labor & Industries has gained full site access and deployed specialized high-hazard chemical inspectors to conduct an on-site workplace safety investigation.
- L&I says it expects to use the full 180 days allowed by law to complete a detailed inspection of records, equipment, training and witness interviews and will publish findings and any citations.
- The agency has fast-tracked workers’ compensation and survivor benefits, including immediate payments to eligible families, funeral reimbursements and ongoing pensions and medical coverage.
- Lawmakers and unions are pressing the company to continue payroll for about 550 furloughed employees as state and federal agencies continue environmental monitoring and community groups organize relief.