The work that was suspended on June 26 following readings from portable gas detectors will resume beginning in Week 29.
The alarms indicated low concentrations of hydrogen cyanide and did not exceed applicable exposure limits. No cases of illness or symptoms related to the presence of hydrogen cyanide have been reported. The health and safety of employees and contractors remain SSAB’s highest priority.
During the suspension, SSAB carried out additional monitoring and control measurements to ensure that the work can be resumed safely. SSAB has also updated relevant occupational health and safety documentation, including the risk assessment and the site health and safety plan.
Once the subcontractors have updated their risk assessments and other relevant documentation, the suspended work will resume under controlled conditions. SSAB is responsible for the overall coordination of the restart and for ensuring the conditions for a safe resumption of work, while each contractor is responsible for execution and occupational health and safety in accordance with applicable regulations and contractual requirements. This includes ensuring that all personnel employed by the respective contractor have the appropriate personal protective equipment.
Systems and procedures are in place to rapidly identify and manage any deviations, including alarm functions and established channels of communication with contractors.
In parallel with the resumption of work, the stationary monitoring program at the construction site will be expanded further.