The workers reported symptoms including headache, nosebleeds, respiratory difficulties, dizziness, and irritated airways. Police have initiated a preliminary investigation into suspected workplace safety violations, and the site is currently closed. SSAB identified elevated levels of several contaminants at the coke plant site, including carcinogenic PAHs and vanadium.
Vanadium levels measured up to 65 times the generic guideline value for less sensitive land use. Vanadium may have oxidized into toxic vanadium oxide, which can cause respiratory issues, bloody nasal discharge, fatigue, and vomiting. SSAB states that vanadium in slag is tightly bound and not separately risk-assessed, with the assessment considering slag as a whole.
The county administrative board's theory is carbon monoxide poisoning, but latest test results show no elevated levels. Initial test results showed toxic gases inside a machine cabin, and nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide were detected in a machine cabin on April 2. A worker who sought care had traces of various toxic gases in the blood, despite varying symptoms.
SSAB has conducted over 150,000 gas measurements, none exceeding limit values. SSAB first received information about the illnesses at the end of February and took immediate action by changing work location and materials. Workers have raised alarms about health risks but felt their concerns were not taken seriously by management.
The work stoppage is not expected to affect the budget or timeline. SSAB also reported significant amounts of unknown waste, including bags with gypsum-like content, fibrous brick-colored mass, and tar lumps, reaching groundwater. In a separate incident, nine employees at Mondi Dynäs factory in Väja experienced symptoms like dry cough, headache, itching, and rash in March, suspected to be work-related.
The incident was reported to authorities on March 30, 11 days after it occurred. Mondi Dynäs is investigating and has implemented preventive measures. Additionally, four workers from Keller sought care at Sunderby Hospital on Good Friday, and six employees at Luleå municipality's social services have been suspended with pay pending investigation.