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SSAB has once again paused work at the construction site for its new steel mill in Luleå after personal gas detectors registered low levels of hydrogen cyanide. The detected levels have not exceeded applicable occupational exposure limits and are not considered to pose any risk to personnel on site. No work will resume until the situation has been investigated and deemed safe.
This week, SSAB is initiating a controlled restart of the steelworks construction in Luleå after completion of the analysis of the causes behind disease symptoms. Extensive measurements have been carried out where no measurement results have shown concentrations above the applicable limit values, neither in air, gases nor in soil except what was previously known. After consultation with experts in the respective fields, the overall analysis is that symptoms have arisen because of a combination of factors, with exposure to fine dust particles from construction activities being the primary factor. The negative impact of fine dust particles is amplified as a result of low humidity and the presence of seasonal respiratory viruses.
In connection with groundworks at the construction site of SSAB’s new steel mill in Luleå, a total of approximately 20 individuals employed by subcontractors have reported illness-like symptoms. A subset of these has sought medical attention. SSAB has initiated an extended measurement program to identify the root cause of the symptoms. All work at the construction site is paused as a safety measure. Steel production at the Luleå site is proceeding as normal.
Why did you choose a summer job at SSAB?
I’m studying engineering, and it’s really important to have experience from having worked in industry to gain that perspective. We just study the theoretical side, and I wanted to see the practical side. A really big company that is good at what it does, so it’s exciting to get the chance to work here. I’ll be here until the end of August.
What do you do in your summer job?
I’m a construction worker at the coke plant. If something stops, I have to be able to sort it out at the plant. I operate the machines in the coal store, digging and loosening coal that arrives by ship from the USA, Australia and other places.
Have you learned anything that you will benefit from later?
I’ve been able to experience the culture that exists here among production employees , and their attitude to work, which is valuable for me. Learning new tasks at work is always a good experience. Experiences always enrich your life.
I’ll also take away with me the way they work as a team, there really is a great sense of cohesion.
How are you finding the job?
I’m really enjoying it, a really great work team and I like my work.
Could you imagine working here at SSAB?
Absolutely. I might not be able to do what I’m doing at the moment, but absolutely in another role that matches my studies.