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Explosion at International Paper’s Pensacola mill

Jan. 30, 2017 – On January 22, International Paper Company experienced “significant structural damage” to the largest pulp digester as well as the power house at its Pensacola pulp and paper mill in Cantonment, Fla.

No one at the mill was injured, according to a company statement issued the following day.

“Response teams are working with local, state and federal agencies to provide information for those impacted. The incident released a mixture of wood fiber, water and pulping liquor into the surrounding community. We have engaged contractors to develop and implement plans to clean up and dispose of the discharged material as quickly as possible. We are providing all necessary support and resources to our local community and residents as we work through the clean-up,” noted the statement. “Our primary focus is on ensuring the health and safety of our employees, contractors and neighbours and on the clean-up of the affected areas and property.”

The company says the mill is not operating, as it is “assessing the extent of the damage to the mill, evaluating supply options and will be working closely with our customers to meet their needs.”

SOURCE International Paper