OSHA: Maine paper mill where 2 men died ignored broken alarm, fire hazard

PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • August 28, 2026

The Woodland Pulp paper mill in Baileyville knowingly put employees in dangerous situations this year, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. OSHA alleges that the company knew an emergency alarm system wasn’t working and that it didn’t activate during a Jan. 27 hydrogen sulfide leak that killed two employees. OSHA also alleges Woodland Pulp stored wood pulp, which is combustible, near hydrogen peroxide tanks, knowing it was a safety hazard. The pulp and the chemical came into contact on March 7 and started a fire.