SSAB to Gradually Reopen Luleå Construction Site After Worker Illness Investigation

SSAB has announced a careful and phased reopening of its construction site in Luleå starting May 27, following a series of illness cases among workers earlier this spring. About 25 workers, mainly involved in ground work and vehicle operations, reported symptoms such as irritated airways, nausea, and nosebleeds — with one worker found to have toxic gases in their blood. Extensive analyses by SSAB determined that fine dust particles were the primary cause, with symptoms worsened by low humidity and seasonal respiratory viruses.

Despite concerns, air, gas, and soil measurements conducted since the site closure on April 3 revealed no pollutant levels exceeding legal limits, according to over 200,000 gas samples taken. SSAB's technical director, Carl Orrling, emphasized that dust levels were within normal workplace ranges and that safety remains the utmost priority.

The phased reopening will initially focus on areas unaffected by the health issues and involve close collaboration with subcontractors, unions, and authorities. SSAB also plans continued monitoring of dust levels and dust control measures to prevent recurrence. The temporary pause is not expected to impact the broader steel plant construction timeline or budget.

This comprehensive investigation and reopening plan reflect SSAB’s commitment to worker safety while addressing the complex factors behind the health incidents, including environmental conditions and viral factors.