Nippon Dynawave Mill Had History of Safety, Maintenance Issues Before Deadly Tank Collapse
Records obtained by the Associated Press reveal a history of safety complaints, poor maintenance, and environmental violations at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. pulp mill in Longview, Washington, prior to a deadly chemical tank collapse in May that killed 11…

South Bend Elkhart, IN, September 4, 2026 — A pulp mill operated by Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. in Longview, Washington, had a documented history of safety complaints, poor maintenance, and environmental violations preceding a fatal chemical tank collapse in May. The incident resulted in the deaths of 11 workers.
The details of the plant’s past issues have emerged through records obtained by the Associated Press. These records indicate a pattern of concerns related to the facility’s operational safety and environmental compliance.
The specific nature of the safety complaints and environmental violations has not been detailed in the provided summary. Similarly, information regarding the extent of poor maintenance, including specific instances or timelines, was not included. The exact date of the chemical tank collapse in May was also not specified.
Following the deadly incident, both state and federal authorities have launched investigations. These ongoing inquiries are examining the circumstances surrounding the chemical tank collapse as well as the plant’s historical record of safety and environmental issues. The outcomes of these investigations are pending.
The Nippon Dynawave Packaging Co. facility in Longview is a significant industrial operation. The recent fatalities and the revelation of prior documented concerns place heightened scrutiny on the company’s safety protocols and regulatory compliance. Further details are expected as state and federal investigations progress.
Story summarized from the original created by AP on apnews.com, see more information here.
