Lochem incident February 2024

On 21 February 2024, a serious workplace accident occurred in Lochem during the lifting and assembly of components for the construction of an arch bridge. Two people lost their lives and two others were seriously injured. One of the victims was an Aertssen employee. This tragic incident continues to have a profound impact on our organisation.

Following the accident, the Dutch Safety Board (Onderzoeksraad voor Veiligheid – OVV) conducted an independent investigation with the aim to identify lessons learned and issuing recommendations to further improve safety within the construction sector. The report has now been published.

We take the recommendations in this report very seriously and will further strengthen our safety measures where necessary, in addition to the actions already in place. The safety and well-being of our employees and everyone working on our sites are central to our operations. Our objective is clear: to provide a working environment in which everyone can perform their job with confidence and care. We want everyone to return home safely to their families at the end of each working day.

For many years, we have invested in strengthening our safety culture through training, clear work procedures and continuous improvement. Safety is an ongoing commitment that requires daily attention and dedication. Together with the sector, we aim to learn from this accident. By cooperating openly and constructively, we seek to contribute to initiatives and actions that further enhance safety across the entire construction sector.

The investigation focused on the lifting and assembly activities within the construction process. The report highlights that safety in construction depends on careful collaboration and clear information sharing from design and preparation through to on-site execution. The recommendations emphasise the importance of continuous attention to information transfer, clear communication on safety aspects and an integrated approach to risk management.

Any insight that contributes to a safer working environment — both within our company and across the broader construction sector — is valuable and will be carefully considered.

In view of the ongoing investigation by the Public Prosecution Service and out of respect for the victims, their families and all those involved, we are unable to provide further details at this time.