Date: August 31, 2021
Location: Palatka, Florida (USA)
Address: 215 County Road 216, 32177
Type: Dust Fire
Fuel: Sawdust
Industry: Paper Mill (Pulp and Paper)
Equipment: Paper Machine
Company: Georgia-Pacific
Database Incidents: None Recorded
Loss: One Injured
Capital Cost: Unknown
Status: Open
Confirmation: Unconfirmed
Company Description:
According to the company website, Georgia-Pacific is a leading manufacturer of tissue, pulp, paper, packaging, building products, and related chemicals that fill a diverse range of home commercial and industrial needs. It has over 180 locations across the globe and employs 30,000 people. The facility in Palatka, Florida specializes in tissue products and employs 900 people.
Incident Description:
On August 31, 2021, News 4JAX reported a sawdust fire at a paper products facility in Palatka, Florida.
The Putnam County Fire Department originally requested assistance from neighbouring Clay County. Firefighters later said the fire was contained to one paper machine after 30 minutes, and assistance was canceled.
One firefighter was taken to the hospital to be treated for heat exhaustion.
OSHA Inspections:
An establishment search turned up two OSHA inspections for the Georgia-Pacific Palatka location, but they were not flagged for combustible dust.
Sources:
News 4JAX