Gas emissions at HSPP send two workers to hospital

Paper Excellence and WorkSafe BC are investigating after “odorous gas emissions” last week at Howe Sound Pulp and Paper sent two workers to hospital.

Kathy Cloutier, director of communications for Paper Excellence, told Coast Reporter that the gas was not chlorine, but the exact type of gas is still under investigation. The equipment that was the suspected source is not currently in service.

Cloutier said the on-site emergency response team at the Port Mellon mill, and other trained staff, provided immediate medical assistance to several employees who experienced nausea.

“Two employees were transported to hospital Thursday [Oct 12]. Both were released that evening,” she added.

“HSPP will continue to work with WorkSafe BC as investigation into the incidents and root cause continues.”

No gas was detected on Friday and the day shift was cleared to work as normal.

WorkSafe BC inspectors were at HSPP on Friday to conduct a review of the incident and response by HSPP, according to Cloutier.

WorkSafe said it expects to have an initial report completed some time this week.