July 29, 2008 - A high density recycling fiber storage storage tank exploded at Packaging Corp.'s of America’s paper mill in Tomahawk, Wis., killing three workers. The tank that exploded was used to store recycled fiber storage and the three individuals were engaged in maintenance activities, including welding on the top of the tank’s high density spreader when the explosion occurred.

A fourth worker, who was standing on a platform at a lower level of the tank’s catwalk was also injured. He was treated and released. Two of the workers killed in the explosion were local union members of the International Association of Machinist and Aerospace Workers Local Lodge 1713.  The third was a salaried employee.

The fourth injured worker is a college student and member of the International Association of Machinist and Aerospace Workers Local Lodge 1713. USW Health and Safety Representative, Steve Sallman and Emergency Response Team, Duronda Pope responded to the accident.