Teamwork leads Domtar tissue mill to 1 million injury-free hours

Domtar’s tissue mill in Hialeah, Florida, in the United States, is one of the few fully integrated tissue manufacturers in North America, producing 100 tons of virgin and recycled tissue daily for at-home and away-from-home markets. The facility is notable for its environmental certifications and for achieving 1,000,000 hours worked without recordable injuries in 2024.

According to Dinorah Diaz, a payroll specialist and human resources generalist who has been part of the mill since 1989, the factory’s strength lies in the respect and honesty that define its workplace culture. We have a very low turnover. Everybody knows each other. We become like a big family,” she says. “And everybody here takes their job very seriously.”

The mill employs more than 220 people, with a strong representation from Hispanic and Latino communities. This diversity, Diaz notes, enhances the team’s pride and professionalism. “When you’re living something you’re happy with, you want your family or friends to experience it too,” she explains.

 

Professional development is another highlight of the facility. Many supervisors and managers began their careers at the mill and were promoted as they developed their skills. When someone comes in new, the people that have been here longest embrace that person,” Diaz explains. “They try to help and guide her.”

Chris Chappell, the mill’s general manager, emphasizes the team spirit that characterizes the facility. “The people that work here are team-spirited, and there is no challenge they can’t overcome — that has been proven time and time again. The employees are local, and the environment is like family, supporting each other day to day,” he says.

For Diaz, who works closely with every team member, building connections with colleagues is her greatest accomplishment. “I love the fact that I can help people. My door will always be open for you, and if I don’t know the answer, we will find it together,” she concludes.