PORT ALBERNI, B.C. (From news reports) -- A mill operator at the Domtar site in Port Alberni has been transported to hospital in serious condition following an on-site injury Thursday morning, April 9.

The Port Alberni Fire Department (PAFD) says at 5:44 a.m. on Thursday, five personnel were dispatched to a medical call at 4000 Stamp Avenue at the Domtar Mill site in Port Alberni.

When they arrived, BC Emergency Health Services (EHS) was already on scene, and fire personnel stayed to assist, says PAFD Deputy Fire Chief Travis Cross.

"We assisted BC Ambulance to help transport one patient to West Coast General Hospital," says Cross.

PAFD crews then returned to service at 6:15 a.m.

EHS says it received a call at 5:44 a.m. to the Domtar Mill site, responding with one air ambulance and two ground ambulances.

"Paramedics transported 1 patient to hospital in serious condition," states BC EHS in an email Saturday.

Support for injured operator, family and colleagues

As of Saturday, Keith Ellwood, site manager at the Port Alberni mill says the injured operator remains in hospital.

"We have one employee who was transported to hospital with a burn injury," adding that the worker was later transported to Vancouver General Hospital.

Following the incident Thursday morning, operations in that work area did not continue for the rest of the day. WorkSafeBC investigators arrived quickly after the incident.

"There's down time in that area for sure," says Ellwood, adding "It's a team here, a bit of a family."

He says the priority right now is making sure his workers are getting the support they need and checking in on the family, while respecting their privacy.

"We are supporting the employee, supporting his family, his colleagues. Making sure everyone is supported."

With an investigation underway, details are limited on what can be shared including what exactly happened at the time of the incident.

"We are working with WorkSafeBC in the middle of an investigation now," adds Ellwood. "Any other details about what may have happened, we'll ensure we vet properly before making it public."

"Right now, it's about ensuring he and his family can have a safe path forward."

Family, coworkers and retirees impacted by the incident are being provided support through the Employee Family Assistance Program. Workers who do not feel safe to work are being encouraged to take the time they need.

As of Saturday, the mill is in full operation, running 24/7 shifts.