Industry News News
Irving completes maintenance shutdown

Over 1,200 trades people with 45 contractor companies, in addition to the 340 mill employees, were on the job this week as part of a week-long maintenance and refurbishment shutdown that happens every 18 months. The $10-million maintenance work ensures the mill is as productive and efficient as possible. Meanwhile, an additional 110 trades people are involved in maintenance work at the Irving Tissue mill along with the mill’s permanent workforce of 107 employees.

The success of the maintenance shutdown involves a lot of teamwork. The work schedule, parts, and tools required are all planned out well in advance to make sure it’s a well-managed shutdown. “This project has a major impact on local contractors who are key to getting the job done. With maintenance costs of more than $1 million per day plus the lost revenue from operations, it is critical to have a shutdown that is well planned and executed,” said Jim Brewster, manager of the Irving Pulp & Paper mill.

The shutdown began on Saturday, October 20 and continued until Saturday, October 27. Two major pieces of equipment are being replaced during the maintenance: a pulp dryer cylinder mould and a dregs washer.

“On behalf of all employees at the mill, we wish to thank the public for their patience during the busy week as we continue to invest in modernizing our mill to remain competitive in the long term,” Brewster added.