The health and safety of employees and contractors is SSAB’s highest priority. Work at the construction sites in the Luleå industrial area was paused in early April as a precaution following reports of symptoms among contractor personnel. The decision to reopen is based on extensive investigations, measurements and comprehensive risk assessments. SSAB continues ongoing monitoring to ensure that the working environment remains safe. The reopening is a first step towards enabling a controlled and safe restart of activities.
The decision is based on a broad and well-documented foundation. Since work was paused, monitoring has been intensified, with more than 200,000 gas measurements conducted alongside extensive particle measurements, indoor air measurements and measurements under production-like conditions. Results show that no measurements exceeded applicable limit values. Dust levels have remained within normal ranges for this type of workplace.
The overall analysis shows that the symptoms were caused by a combination of factors, with exposure to fine dust particles from construction activities being the primary factor. The effects are amplified by low humidity and the presence of seasonal respiratory viruses. The analysis was carried out in collaboration with external experts and forms a key basis for the decision to reopen operations. It has been shared with the Swedish Work Environment Authority, contractors and trade unions.
The restart will take place in stages beginning on 27 May, initially covering selected areas where work is assessed to be safe. In the first phase, areas not affected by reported symptoms and not involving dust-generating excavation work will be reopened. Work will resume area by area in cooperation with contractors and based on updated work environment plans, risk assessments and impact analyses in line with applicable requirements. SSAB is responsible for overall coordination and conditions for a safe restart, while each contractor is responsible for execution and work environment within their scope in accordance with applicable regulations and agreements.
Enhanced monitoring will continue, including ongoing measurements of dust and gases via a fixed sensor network that is being gradually expanded. Measures will be implemented to reduce dust dispersion and manage risks, for example through adapted working methods, technical solutions and protective measures where needed. Systems and routines are in place to quickly identify and manage deviations, including alarm functions and established dialogue with contractors.
The decision has been preceded by close dialogue between SSAB, contractors, trade union representatives and relevant authorities. SSAB maintains ongoing communication with the Swedish Work Environment Authority and has shared the data, risk assessments and analyses underpinning the decision. Safety representatives have been involved in planning and assessing the conditions for the restart.
The paused works are not expected to have any material impact on the overall project schedule or budget.