In 2023, Boliden Garpenberg received a new permit for Ryllshyttan tailings facility. One of the conditions is to supplement existing safety measures with a warning system that can alert people in the event of a dam failure.
The system will consist of warning signals that can be heard both outdoors and indoors in the affected areas. It is being developed in collaboration with the emergency services, Hedemora Municipality, Avesta Municipality, the County Administrative Board, and the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB).
Why a new warning system?
As part of the new permit for the Ryllshyttan tailings facilitydam (2023), the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) requires that a warning system is introduced. The system must be able to quickly warn people in areas where water could cause flooding in the event of the worst-case scenario of a dam failure. The warning gives people time to get to safety. The system reaches both residents and visitors in the area.
Is the dam safe?
Yes, Ryllshyttan tailings facility meets all legal safety requirements. We maintain a high level of safety, and the probability of a failure is very low. The dam is monitored around the clock, and we have procedures in place to respond quickly to any deviations. If necessary, our emergency response team is activated and works together with the rescue services, police, and authorities.
How the warning system works
The warning system will consist of 8-12 masts with sound transmitters. The masts will be 15-20 meters high, depending on how many sirens they have. Boliden has primarily placed the masts on its own land, but for some of the masts this is not possible. Some masts need to be placed on other owners? land, and we will contact the landowners concerned to find a solution together.
The warning system will emit both audible signals and spoken messages and will be supplemented with road signs warning of flooded roads. The system will be manned around the clock and can be activated at any time.
The goal is for the warning system to be ready during the summer of 2026.
Contact information
Ulf Hedberg, Project Manager, [email protected], tel. +46 70-656 35 31
Felicia Norén, Property-related inquiries, [email protected], tel. +46 73-022 46 93
Patrik Lundin, Section Manager Ryllshyttan tailings facility, [email protected], tel. +46 72-218 84 91