A labor dispute has erupted at the industrial site in El Prat de Llobregat: employees of the Archroma plant, which specializes in chemical components for the paper and packaging industries, have gone on strike. The reason is the alarming state of their jobs and the lack of basic safety measures. The workers, who face hazardous reactions and high temperatures daily, are convinced that any delay in updating equipment could end in tragedy.
The plant, owned by the American investment fund SK Capital, has for years been reducing spending on maintenance and modernization. Workers say they are forced to repair old machines by cannibalizing parts from other units, and the protective equipment is long outdated. Since the pandemic, the situation has only gotten worse: even basic personal protective gear is now subject to cost-cutting.
In recent months, breakdowns and accidents at the facility have become more frequent. The roof in some workshop areas has started to crumble, and constant equipment failures have become the norm. Employees complain that, after layoffs, the workload for those who remain has only increased: entire shifts now operate with fewer people than before. This not only lowers productivity but also raises the risk of mistakes and workplace accidents.
Rise in workplace accidents and official response
The situation at the Archroma plant reflects a broader trend across Catalonia and Spain: over the past year, the number of fatal workplace incidents has risen by more than 40%. According to European statistics, the country surpasses the EU average for workplace deaths. In Catalonia alone, 56 fatal workplace accidents have been recorded in the first eight months of this year.
Regional authorities are trying to respond: they are discussing the creation of a special inspection unit to oversee small and medium-sized businesses where there are no union representatives. However, negotiations with employers have stalled, and so far, no concrete decisions have been made.
Promises of investment vs. reality
Less than a year ago, Archroma management announced plans to invest 20 million euros into production development and safety improvements, as well as hiring new staff. However, during this same period, the company has cut its workforce by several dozen people. Workers believe the company is preparing to sell the plant and is therefore minimizing expenses on anything not essential to maintaining current operations.
Despite declarations of willingness to engage in dialogue, employees continue to stand by their demands. The protest is mainly supported by those working directly on the production line and facing daily hazards. For now, the situation remains tense, and the future of the plant and its staff is uncertain.
