In a tragic turn of events, a construction site in Sundbyberg was the scene of a devastating accident when a building elevator plummeted 20 meters to the ground, claiming the lives of five workers.
Among the deceased was 26-year-old Anton Runsvik from Sundsvall, remembered by his former floorball team as a player with a big heart and exceptional talent.
The incident, which occurred at a residential construction site, has raised significant concerns regarding workplace safety and identification protocols.
Investigations have revealed that two of the five victims lacked the mandatory ID06 cards, a revelation confirmed by Andersson Company, the firm overseeing the project.
Instead, these workers had used their passports for identification, a practice deemed insufficient by Anneli Ohlsson Anderbjörk, a legal advisor at the Byggnads union.
She emphasized the importance of the ID06 system in preventing workplace crimes and ensuring compliance with employment contracts.
This incident marks 2023 as the deadliest year in the Swedish workforce since 2008, with 62 reported deaths.
The severity of the situation has prompted several construction companies in Stockholm, including JM and John Mattsson, to implement a temporary halt to elevator operations across building sites.
This measure aims to allow for comprehensive inspections and reassurances of safety protocols.
NCC, another major construction firm, has also initiated stringent checks of its building elevators.
Meanwhile, three parallel investigations by the police, the Swedish Accident Investigation Authority, and the Swedish Work Environment Authority are underway to determine the cause of the accident.
Preliminary findings suggest a significant installation error with the elevator, as two mast sections meant to secure it were not properly bolted together.
Alimak, the manufacturer of the elevator, though not responsible for its installation, has been involved in similar incidents before, raising questions about the safety standards in the construction industry.
The community has been deeply affected by this tragedy, with many gathering at the accident site in Sundbyberg to pay their respects, leaving candles and flowers in memory of those who lost their lives.
The accident not only highlights critical gaps in workplace safety but also underscores the profound impact such incidents have on families, colleagues, and communities.
