Government Investigation into Scaffolding Collapse at Kai Tak New Acute Hospital
Hong Kong authorities are currently investigating a devastating incident that occurred at a construction site in Kai Tak, leaving 11 workers injured, with one still in critical condition. The collapse of scaffolding at the site of the New Acute Hospital on January 14, 2025, has raised concerns about safety regulations and construction practices in the city.
Details of the Incident
The collapse of a large bamboo scaffold, measuring approximately 20 meters by 60 meters, was reported to the police around 4 pm on Monday. A total of 11 workers, including seven men and four women, were injured in the accident. One female worker was trapped mid-air, requiring emergency responders to spend about an hour rescuing her from the precarious situation.
A significant response effort was mobilized, with 14 fire trucks and 65 firefighters and paramedics dispatched to the scene. The injured workers were promptly transported to United Christian Hospital and Queen Elizabeth Hospital for treatment.
Government Response and Safety Measures
Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Chris Sun, expressed deep sympathy for the injured workers and emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation into the incident. The Labour Department has already sent officers to inspect the site and issued suspension notices to contractors involved in the construction.
The Hospital Authority confirmed that the main contractor for the site, China State Construction Engineering (Hong Kong), has halted all scaffolding work at the location. This move comes in the wake of previous safety concerns raised by the Association for the Rights of Industrial Accident Victims regarding another construction site managed by the same contractor.
Concerns and Safety Regulations
This recent incident has reignited concerns about construction safety in Hong Kong, particularly in light of a worker fatality from a fall last November and a previous crane collapse in September. The Labour Department has taken steps to enhance safety protocols, including revisions to the Code of Practice for Bamboo Scaffolding Safety.
As investigations continue and the injured workers recover, the community is reminded of the importance of stringent safety measures in the construction industry to prevent such tragic accidents from reoccurring.
Remember, safety should always be the top priority in any workplace to protect the well-being of all individuals involved. Stay informed, stay safe, and look out for one another.
