Probe Launched into Unexplained Deaths at Swedish Electric Car Battery Plant
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Loading... - Emil Schulte
- 28 Jun 2024
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Swedish authorities have initiated an investigation into the mysterious deaths of three workers at Northvolt's electric car battery factory. These incidents have prompted significant concerns, leading Japanese car manufacturer Toyota to withdraw its workers from the facility.
The deaths occurred over a span of six months at the Northvolt Ett plant, located in Skelleftea, a town in northern Sweden. The factory, one of Europe's prominent electric battery producers, employs approximately 3,500 people.
The series of incidents began with the death of a 33-year-old cleaner who was found dead at home on January 5. Following this, a 19-year-old worker was discovered deceased on February 22, a day after completing his shift. Most recently, a 59-year-old employee was found dead at his residence on June 5.
Initial police investigations did not find any connections between the deaths or the workplace. However, forensic examinations have yet to determine the causes of death. Authorities now intend to further investigate potential workplace-related factors, particularly the possibility of exposure to harmful substances.
In response to the deaths, Toyota, the world's largest car manufacturer, has temporarily halted the work of its service technicians at the factory, according to specialist magazine Dagens Arbete.
Northvolt has described the three fatalities within such a short period as a "tragic coincidence." Nonetheless, the company and Swedish authorities are taking the incidents seriously.
Deputy Employment Minister Paulina Brandberg emphasized the importance of understanding the circumstances surrounding these deaths. "It's terrible that three people have died after their work," she told Sweden's TT news agency. "It's very important to get clarity on what happened."
The investigation will aim to uncover whether workplace conditions contributed to these tragedies, ensuring the safety and well-being of all employees moving forward.
