Investigation report on fallen metal gate incident at Hang Ngai Manufacturing and Hostel released

The Architectural Services Department (ArchSD) today (December 8) released the investigation report on the fallen metal gate incident at the Hang Ngai Manufacturing and Hostel, Hung Hom, on May 5, 2009.  The information is available at ArchSD's website(www.archsd.gov.hk/en/reports.aspx).

A spokesman for the ArchSD said, "We express the deepest sadness on the death of Ms Lim resulting from the falling of the metal gate.  After taking into account ArchSD's investigation report and all other information disclosed in the hearing, the Coroner's Court found in October 2010 that the deceased died as the result of an accident.  In the investigation report, we recommend several continuous improvement measures on execution of minor repair works and improving government building safety.  These recommendations have been accepted by the Coroner and already implemented by the department."

The spokesman added that additional guidelines had been issued and training provided to staff for classifying and handling minor repairs in the high-risk category.

In addition, maintenance term contractors are required to ensure that all high-risk minor repairs are carried out by qualified intermediate tradesmen of relevant trades, supervised by their foremen.  Repair reports shall also be submitted to ArchSD on completion of repair works.

The audit percentage for high-risk minor repairs has been increased to 30%.

At the same time, the computer system has been enhanced to track minor repairs history on high-risk items to facilitate follow-up.

Periodic preventive maintenance inspections of government buildings have been stepped up, particularly the inspection of building components with safety and health concerns.

Additional office guidelines and training on the checking and acceptance of entrusted works by private developers also have been issued.

A handbook was distributed to all user departments to better help their staff identify and report building defects.  Briefing sessions have also been held to raise their awareness of building safety and improve the communication between ArchSD and user departments.

ArchSD will continuously monitor and review the improvement measures with a view to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of its services.


Ends/Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Issued at HKT 17:41

NNNN


Back