Stralsunder Werft Workers Contaminated with Lead - Shipbuilders in Stralsund exposed to dangerous lead levels during historic vessel restorations

Nineteen shipbuilders in Stralsund have been found with elevated lead levels after working on historic sailing ships. The contamination was uncovered following blood tests prompted by workers reporting acute symptoms. Investigations now focus on the shipyard where the exposure likely occurred.

The affected workers were previously employed by Fosen at the Stralsund yard. They had been removing paint coatings from the historic vessels Gorch Fock I and Greif in autumn 2023. Lead-based paints, known for causing both immediate health problems and long-term risks, are suspected as the source of contamination.

Nine of the workers tested had lead levels above the biological exposure limit. In response, the state occupational health authority launched an investigation. The city of Stralsund has also commissioned an expert assessment of lead contamination at the site.

Access to the affected shipbuilding hall has since been restricted. Workers entering the area must now wear particle-filter respirators. Additionally, the city has been advised to inform tenants of the hall about potential exposure risks. The Umweltbundesamt (German Federal Environment Agency) has further ordered an independent study to examine the extent of contamination.

The findings highlight the risks of lead exposure during ship restoration work. Stricter safety measures are now in place, including limited access and mandatory protective gear. Further investigations will determine whether additional precautions are needed to prevent future cases.