Swedish steel company SSAB announced that it had temporarily suspended all construction work at its new steel plant in Luleå after several subcontractor workers reported illness-like symptoms.
The first confirmed cases appeared on April 3, when four workers sought medical attention. A total of approximately 20 people reported symptoms, with seven requiring treatment.
Investigation of potential gas exposure
As a precautionary measure, all work on site was stopped following earlier partial shutdowns following the identification of initial symptoms.
Preliminary studies have focused on the potential effects of the gas. Measurements taken on April 2 showed that ambient air levels remained well below regulatory limits for gases such as hydrogen sulfide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide.
Elevated levels found in the engine cabin
However, in the crawler cabin excavator during operation, elevated concentrations of nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide were detected, exceeding regulatory thresholds.
During these tests, operators were equipped with assisted breathing systems, while levels of hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide remained within acceptable limits.
Advanced monitoring and tests
SSAB expanded its monitoring activities to include additional air and soil sampling throughout the construction site. The company noted that previously
