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Owners of private buildings are urged to properly maintain their drainage pipes and regularly re-fill their U-traps to ensure environmental hygiene, a spokesman for the Buildings Department said today (November 2).
"U-traps serve to stop foul smells and unhygienic substances in the drainage system from entering living areas. Defective or dried U-traps could negate this important function," the spokesman said in the light of recent public concern.
"Building owners and occupiers should regularly inspect their drainage pipes, U-traps and sanitary fittings and arrange immediate repair if damage is found," he said, adding that water should also be added to the U-traps regularly to ensure they functioned properly.
In addition, regular inspection and repair of drainage systems were also paramount to enhance personal and environmental hygiene as good maintenance of the sanitary system would help reduce the chance of germs spreading in domestic premises.
"Damaged, especially leaking pipes, should be inspected and repaired by qualified contractors without delay," he said.
In order to remind members of the public about the importance of proper maintenance of drainage systems and U-traps, the Buildings Department will step up public education by delivering leaflets entitled "What you need to know about drainage pipe maintenance" to private residential households in the coming few weeks. "We will also highlight on our website information on the proper maintenance of drainage system so as to raise public awareness of the issue," he added.
The spokesman also said that the Buildings Department would work closely with relevant departments and take any necessary action to deal with problems relating to buildings to help prevent infectious diseases.
Ends/Wednesday, November 2, 2005
Issued at HKT 18:20
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