Washington Launches Probe Into Deadly Nippon Dynawave Mill Accident
Investigators gain full access to the site to determine the cause of the fatal incident and connect affected families with state benefits.
- By Jesse Jacobs
- Jun 02, 2026
State workplace safety investigators have gained full access to the Nippon Dynawave facility in Longview following the recovery of all missing workers from the site of a deadly industrial accident.
The Washington Department of Labor & Industries announced it has opened a formal workplace safety investigation to determine the root cause of the incident and evaluate whether safety violations occurred. The agency is also coordinating with families of the deceased and injured workers to facilitate state workers' compensation benefits, including medical care, wage replacement and survivor pensions.
The state’s action follows an initial industrial accident at the Washington paper mill that left multiple workers dead or missing.
State officials confirmed that specialized inspectors targeting high-hazard chemical industries will lead the probe. Under state law, the regulatory authority has up to 180 days to complete its investigation. Due to the scale and complexity of the facility damage, officials anticipate utilizing the full timeline.
The investigative process begins with an opening conference involving the employer and labor representatives. State inspectors will review safety plans, training documentation and hazard assessments, alongside physical inspections and witness interviews.
If workplace health and safety rules were violated, the state has the statutory authority to issue citations and levy financial penalties. Nippon Dynawave will have 15 working days to appeal any findings once the final inspection results are published.
Simultaneously, state personnel are assisting affected families with the claims process. Approved workplace fatality claims grant survivors an immediate $7,930 payment and up to $15,860 in funeral cost reimbursements. Long-term benefits include monthly pensions for surviving spouses at 60% of the worker’s wages, with additional percentages provided for dependent children.
Injured workers are eligible for partial wage replacement, medical care coverage, vocational rehabilitation and treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder.
Under the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act, employers bear strict legal responsibility for maintaining work environments free from recognized hazards, including the mandatory assessment and control of risks associated with chemical storage tanks.
About the Author
Jesse Jacobs is assistant editor of OHSOnline.com.