Nippon Dynawave Disaster: 11 Workers Killed, Multiple Others Injured 

On May 26, 2026, at approximately 7:15 a.m, a 900,000-gallon chemical tank containing white liquor, a highly caustic chemical used in paper manufacturing, ruptured at the Nippon Dynawave Packaging facility in Longview, Washington. The incident killed eleven workers, seriously injured at least seven others, and injured a firefighter during emergency response efforts. This tragedy has been called the deadliest industrial disaster in modern Washington state history.

The paper mill employs approximately 1,000 workers and produces tissue, printing paper, food packaging, and other consumer products. At the time of the disaster, the facility was already the subject of two open workplace safety investigations and had a documented history of prior safety violations. 

State and federal agencies continue to investigate the cause of the rupture, including whether equipment failures, maintenance deficiencies, safety violations, or third-party negligence contributed to the disaster. 

What Happened at Nippon Dynawave? 

• A 900,000-gallon tank containing highly caustic white liquor ruptured on May 26, 2026. 

• Eleven workers lost their lives. 

• At least seven workers suffered serious injuries, including chemical burns and inhalation injuries. 

• One firefighter was injured during emergency response operations. 
• Hazardous chemicals entered nearby drainage systems and reached areas connected to the Columbia River. 
• State and federal agencies launched investigations into the cause of the incident. 

Who May Be Eligible For Compensation? 

The disaster affected more than those who suffered immediate physical injuries. 

Potential claimants may include: 

• Families of Workers Who Lost Their Lives: Surviving family members may have legal rights arising from the wrongful death of a loved one. 

• Injured Workers: Workers who suffered chemical burns, respiratory injuries, permanent impairments, or other physical harm may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses (past and future), lost wages and diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, permanent scarring and disfigurement, and potential long-term respiratory complications 

• Workers or Witnesses Present During the Disaster: Individuals who witnessed the event and are experiencing severe emotional trauma may have potential claims depending on the circumstances. Those who were present during or immediately following the rupture should also monitor their health, as some exposure-related symptoms may not appear immediately. 

• Property Owners and Businesses: Property owners and businesses who suffered property damage or were affected by contamination, closures, or other impacts may have legal claims for their losses. 

• Emergency Responders: Firefighters and other responders injured during the disaster may have separate legal rights. 

Potential Liability and Ongoing Investigations 

Investigators are examining whether the disaster resulted from: 

• Unsafe working conditions 

• Equipment or tank design defects 

• Improper maintenance or inspection practices 

• Contractor negligence 

• Failure to address known safety hazards 

• Violations of workplace safety regulations 

Reports indicate the facility was already the subject of two open Washington State Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) safety investigations at the time of the rupture. One investigation was opened in March 2026 following an anonymous complaint regarding a valve on an aqua ammonia clarifier tank. A second investigation began on May 6, 2026—just weeks before the disaster—after a complaint involving a sinkhole created by a failed drain. Both investigations remained open and unresolved when the catastrophic tank rupture occurred. 

The facility also had a documented history of safety concerns. In 2025, a worker lost a finger in a workplace incident, and the company was cited for moving equipment before inspectors could complete their investigation. The mill also experienced a significant wood chip fire in 2023, the cause of which was never officially determined. 

As part of the ongoing investigation, regulators and experts are expected to examine maintenance records, inspection reports, engineering assessments, safety complaints, and other evidence to determine whether known hazards were adequately addressed before the disaster occurred. 

Depending on the findings, potentially responsible parties may include the facility operator, equipment manufacturers, contractors, maintenance providers, inspection companies, or other entities whose actions contributed to the rupture. 

Find a Nippon Dynawave Disaster Attorney 

Industrial disasters often involve complex investigations, multiple potentially responsible parties, and unique legal challenges. In Washington, workplace injury and wrongful death claims are governed by the state's Industrial Insurance Act (IIA). While the law can affect claims against employers, victims and families may still have legal options depending on the circumstances and the parties involved. 

Singleton Schreiber is actively monitoring the investigation and evaluating potential claims arising from the disaster. Our team can help determine what legal avenues may be available and identify all potentially responsible parties. 

• Free, No-Obligation Consultation: Speak directly with a member of our legal team at no cost. 

• Personalized Support: We guide you through every step, from investigation to resolution. 

• No Fees Unless We Win: You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. 

Local Washington Attorneys Here to Support You 

Industrial disasters often involve complex investigations, multiple potentially responsible parties, and unique legal challenges. In Washington, workplace injury and wrongful death claims are governed by the state's Industrial Insurance Act (IIA). While the law can affect claims against employers, victims and families may still have legal options depending on the circumstances and the parties involved. 

Singleton Schreiber is actively monitoring the investigation and evaluating potential claims arising from the disaster. Our team of local Washington attorneys can help determine what legal avenues may be available and identify all potentially responsible parties.  

• Free, No-Obligation Consultation: Speak directly with a member of our legal team at no cost. 

• Personalized Support: We guide you through every step, from investigation to resolution. 

• No Fees Unless We Win: You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I file a claim if I was a Nippon Dynawave employee?

Washington workplace injury claims are governed by the state's Industrial Insurance Act (IIA). While this law can affect claims against employers, injured workers and families may still have legal options depending on the circumstances and the parties involved. An attorney can help evaluate the facts of your situation and determine what claims may be available.  

Can family members file a claim after losing a loved one? 

Families who lost a loved one in the Nippon Dynawave disaster may have legal rights depending on the circumstances of the incident. Potential avenues for recovery may include workers' compensation survivor benefits, wrongful death claims, or claims against third parties whose conduct contributed to the disaster. 

Who may be responsible for the Nippon Dynawave disaster? 

The investigation is ongoing. Depending on the findings, potentially responsible parties could include Nippon Dynawave, equipment manufacturers, contractors, maintenance providers, inspection companies, engineering firms, or other entities involved in the design, maintenance, or operation of the facility. 

What is white liquor? 

White liquor is a highly caustic chemical solution used in the paper manufacturing process. Exposure may cause serious chemical burns, respiratory injuries, eye injuries, and other health complications. 

What should I do if I was exposed to white liquor or chemical fumes?

If you believe you were exposed during or after the disaster, seek appropriate medical attention and document any symptoms you experience. Some health effects may not appear immediately, so it's important to monitor your condition and keep records of any treatment you receive.  

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