On February 12, 2024, a fire broke out in the Oceana waterpark at Liseberg amusement park. The Swedish Accident Investigation Authority has now released its final report. This detailed document provides key insights into the cause of the fire and offers safety recommendations, which Liseberg takes seriously and has largely implemented.
Cause of the Fire According to the Report
The Swedish Accident Investigation Authority determined that the fire most likely started due to electrofusion welding of a diversion pipe on a waterslide outside Oceana. The thorough investigation explains what happened, why it occurred, and how similar incidents can be prevented in the future. Liseberg supported the commission to the best of its ability throughout the process to ensure a comprehensive analysis. The report addresses all involved parties and delivers valuable findings for the entire industry.
Safety Recommendations and Liseberg’s Response
The commission issued safety recommendations to four parties, including Liseberg, urging the park to further develop its systematic workplace safety practices as a project owner to strengthen its safety culture. Andreas Andersen, CEO of the Liseberg Group, states that the park has great confidence in the authority’s expertise and work. He adds: “We take the safety recommendations very seriously and are grateful for insights that improve not only us but the entire industry.” The report aims to reduce future risks.
Measures Implemented by Liseberg
Liseberg acknowledges that its monitoring of supplier requirements at the time of the fire needed improvement. Andreas Andersen emphasizes: “We all need to learn from this fire. Otherwise, it becomes even more senseless. The purpose of the report is to make us all—project owners, contractors, and suppliers—better and ensure this doesn’t happen again.” Many of the proposed safety recommendations have already been integrated into the organization. These include updating internal governance documents and manuals, tightening controls over contracted suppliers, and maintaining active participation in safety inspections, construction meetings, production discussions, and planning sessions on-site. Additionally, an external review of the existing, approved fire protection system was conducted to identify further enhancements. Liseberg continues to refine its internal processes and routines.
Responsibility Still Under Review
The commission’s investigation seeks to draw lessons for the future. The question of responsibility remains under examination by the public prosecutor, whose inquiry is ongoing. As a municipally owned company, Liseberg sets high standards for its suppliers and bears responsibility as a project owner for defining and following up on requirements. The park recognizes the need to enhance systematic monitoring to ensure compliance with those standards.
