Investigation begins into UPM pulp mill fire in Pietarsaari

An investigation into Monday’s fire at UPM’s pulp mill in Pietarsaari begins on Tuesday, Yle reports. The cause of the fire and the scale of the damage will be assessed after the investigation, UPM said.

One of the mill’s chimneys collapsed in the fire, which also damaged a conveyor line and a factory building. The blaze was brought under control quickly, and no one was injured. The mill’s fire brigade guarded the scene through the evening and night.

The fire particularly damaged the part of the pulp mill where wood chips are handled, according to UPM. The company said it was too early to assess how the damage will affect operations.

The mill is currently in a production shutdown that began last month. Some employees have been temporarily laid off because of the shutdown, UPM said.

The Alholma factory area also houses a Billerud paper mill, a Walki paper converting plant and an Alholmens Kraft power plant.