The Labour Department (LD) completed a two-week special inspection exercise targeting construction sites with large-scale bamboo scaffolds on March 5. During this exercise, the LD inspected 292 construction sites across the territory, with 256 written warnings, 195 improvement notices and six suspension notices issued as well as 14 prosecutions initiated. The unsafe matters mainly involved bamboo scaffolding work, work-at-height and lifting operations.

     A spokesman for the LD said today (March 6), "During the exercise, the LD detected structural defects on some bamboo scaffolds, which may lead to collapses. In addition, some contractors failed to take adequate steps, such as failure to provide safe working platforms and safe access and egress, to prevent workers from falling from height. To ensure the bamboo scaffolding work safety, contractors shall comply with the requirements as stipulated in the occupational safety and health legislation and the Code of Practice for Bamboo Scaffolding Safety."

     The spokesman added, "Based on our experience, March is a usual month in the first quarter of each year with a higher number of fatal accidents. To prevent recurrence of accidents, the LD reminds contractors and employers once again to remain vigilant and take adequate safety measures to safeguard the work safety of their employees. To be considerate, employees should also co-operate with their employers and implement relevant safety measures."

Ends/Wednesday, March 6, 2024
Issued at HKT 19:30

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