RESTRUCTURING (Notes)

9 Months Ended

Sep. 30, 2015

Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract]

Restructuring, Impairment, and Other Activities Disclosure [Text Block]

RESTRUCTURING

On April 29, 2015, the Corporation approved actions to improve the cost effectiveness of the Corporation's global operations and further streamline the organization. These actions will affect approximately 16 positions and result in the shutdown of a manufacturing facility that produces water soluble polymers in Institute, West Virginia, in the fourth quarter of 2015. These actions are expected to be completed by the end of 2016.

As a result of these actions, the Corporation recorded pretax restructuring charges of $18 million in the second quarter of 2015 consisting of costs associated with exit or disposal activities of $2 million, severance costs of $2 million and asset write-downs and write-offs of $14 million. The impact of these charges is shown as "Restructuring charges" in the consolidated statements of income. At September 30, 2015, severance of $1 million had been paid, leaving a liability of $1 million for 13 employees.

The Corporation expects to incur additional costs in the future related to restructuring activities, as UCC continually looks for ways to enhance the efficiency and cost effectiveness of its operations. Future costs are expected to include demolition costs related to the closed facilities; these will be recognized as incurred. The Corporation also expects to incur additional employee­related costs, including involuntary termination benefits, related to its other optimization activities. These costs cannot be reasonably estimated at this time.