Heka continues to investigate the safety of balcony boards
Heka carried out a survey to identify the sites where fibre cement balcony boards have been used as fall protection. The investigation is continuing on a case-by-case basis together with experts. Residents will be informed directly if the matter concerns their building or the use of their balcony.
Heka immediately launched an investigation after the Safety Investigation Authority issued an accident threat notification regarding fibre cement balcony boards in May. Heka has previously stated that we are investigating whether the balcony boards brought up by the Safety Investigation Authority have been used at our sites.
The surveying of Heka’s entire property portfolio has now been completed. Next, Heka will examine the situation at the identified sites in more detail with experts and assess what further actions are required at each site.
Investigation is proceeding on a case-by-case basis
According to current information, the detailed investigation concerns around 30 of Heka’s sites. For some of the sites, more detailed information about the balcony structures is still being examined. For others, the method of fixing and supporting the balcony boards is being verified.
If the investigation or any measures concern a specific building, Heka will inform the residents directly. In that case, we will tell you what was discovered in the investigations, what actions are needed, and what residents should do.
If there are any specific safety precautions you need to take regarding the balconies in your building, Heka will provide separate instructions. Otherwise, the balconies can be used as normal. However, it is always advisable to exercise the usual caution on a balcony: you should not lean heavily on the railings, climb on them or strike them.
A safe home is the basis of Heka’s work. Heka is continuing its investigation carefully, based on guidance from the authorities and expert assessments. Residents do not need to investigate the situation in their building themselves; instead, Heka will provide the necessary guidance and information on any further actions directly to the residents concerned.