Investigation continues following tragic construction accident in Helsinki

The investigation into the accident at the construction site on Puutarhakujan in downtown Helsinki has advanced. A man tragically died after falling into an excavation pit adjacent to Kaisaniemi Park last Saturday. Authorities are currently assessing whether the construction site fences and safety measures were adequate.

Terrawise, the main contractor for the site, announced on Tuesday evening that initial findings suggest the site barriers were compliant with regulations. The company also indicated that public lighting in the area was sufficient during the evening hours. The construction site has been empty on weekends. According to Terrawise, no gaps were found in the safety measures after workers left the site at the end of their shifts.

The Regional State Administrative Agency has granted permission to continue work at the site with the current fencing in place. Terrawise stated that the site is protected by double fencing, with guided detours indicated outside the area and restrictions on entering the construction zone.

Authorities are investigating the chain of events that led to the accident. “This case is immensely regrettable, and we extend our condolences to the deceased’s family and loved ones,” said Tuomas Saarinen, CEO of Terrawise, in a statement.

Preliminary reports received by the Regional State Administrative Agency and police suggest that the barrier may have been dislodged at the time of the incident. Additionally, the caretaker of a nearby residential building, Kai Pietarila, previously reported that construction fences are sometimes torn down after weekends as people may take shortcuts through the site.