Abstract: At 4:35 p.m. on December 13, 1994, Employees #1 and #2, pipefitters, were changing a flange gasket on the west blowpit stock line between the #4 and #6 blowpits. The stockline was 24 inches in diameter and connected the #2, #4, #6, and #8 blowpits. A digester operator helper (cook) had not been informed of the maintenance work and subsequently opened the stock valve on the #8 blowpit, which had not been deactivated. Hot stock (pulp) that was over 200 degrees F was sent down the line, contacting Employees #1 and #2 near the #6 blowpit. Employee #1 received second-degree burns over 20 percent of his body and severe lung damage, and he was blinded for 9 days. Employee #2 received third-degree burns over 50 percent of his body. Both were airlifted to Harborview Burn Center in Seattle.