Helsinki Parking Garage Safety Decision Delayed Amid Fatal Falls

Helsinki's Jätkäsaari parking garage remains a site of concern as a decision on permanent safety measures is delayed, despite four fatalities from falls since last year. The most recent death occurred in February, prompting the closure of the top level with construction barriers. However, unauthorized access has continued, according to Mikko Syrjänen, CEO of Jätkäsaaren Pysäköinti Oy.

Syrjänen stated that the building has always met safety regulations and that temporary measures are still in place. Access to the top level is restricted by car and on foot. The company is now considering permanent modifications, though Syrjänen emphasized that these are not mandated by authorities. The plans will be sent to the parking facility's shareholder companies for comment before a final decision is made.

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The building has never been unsafe. The temporary measures taken in the winter are still there.

The incidents have deeply affected the local community, with some residents having witnessed the events or suffered from them indirectly. The cost of potential additional work could range from tens to hundreds of thousands of euros, which would likely be passed on to the parking space users. The parking facility, designed to be accessible for recreation, features open routes that also serve as emergency escape paths in case of fire. It was initially intended to be easily accessible for locals and tourists, with features like greenery near staircases and a top-level viewing area.

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There is no absolute need to carry out modification work.