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EMSD investigates plunge of passenger lift
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     In response to media enquiries on the plunge of a passenger lift at Shin Nga House, Fu Shin Estate, Tai Po on October 25, a spokesman for the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) said today (November 4) that investigation into the cause of the accident is underway and the result will be announced within a month.

     EMSD was notified on October 27 by the lift maintenance company that an accident involving a passenger lift had occurred at Shin Nga House on October 25. No casualty was reported. Initial investigations revealed damage signs on the cable, governor, lift car and counter weight. According to EMSD's records, the concerned lift has passed its annual safety inspection in January 2008.

     The concerned lift has ceased operation immediately after the accident. EMSD staff members have conducted on-site investigation on October 27, 30 and 31 respectively. The cause of the accident has yet to be ascertained pending further examinations.

     ¡§EMSD together with the lift maintenance company have conducted safety checks on all lifts in Fu Shin Estate after the accident. It was found that the other lifts in the estate are safe,¡¨ the spokesman said.

     The safe operation of lifts in Hong Kong is required to be checked by registered lift engineers and registered lift contractors. According to the Ordinance, the registered lift engineer is required to conduct an annual safety inspections on the lift and to sign off the safety report. The registered lift contractor is required to conduct the quarterly safety inspections on the lift and to report any major lift incidents to EMSD within 7 days.

     Prosecution will be instituted against anyone who contravenes Lifts and Escalators (Safety) Ordinance (CAP 327). Offenders are liable to $5000 fine and six months' imprisonment upon conviction under section 27A of the Ordinance.



Ends/Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Issued at HKT 20:21

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