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The Boilers and Pressure Vessels Authority today (September 14) suspended the appointment of two boiler inspectors for six months and two months respectively under section 5A(1)(c) of the Boilers and Pressure Vessels Ordinance, Chapter 56.
A spokesperson for the Authority said in respect of the first case, during an inspection, the Authority found an appointed boiler inspector making a false statement in the certificate of fitness in relation to a steam receiver which was contrary to section 55(1)(b) of the Ordinance. The appointed boiler inspector was prosecuted and convicted after trial. The conviction demonstrates that the appointed boiler inspector has not exercised due diligence and care in discharging his duties as an Appointed Examiner. By contravening section 55(1)(b) of the Ordinance, he has diminished the high standards, good reputation, and confidence and trust that the public have in the appointment system.
For the second case, another appointed boiler inspector was found failing to properly discharge his duties as a boiler inspector under the Ordinance. During an inspection, the Authority found that the appointed boiler inspector had not exercised due diligence and care in sealing the safety valve of an air receiver in accordance with the requirements of section 45 of the Ordinance. This rendered it unsafe to use and operate the equipment.
"Taking into account the gravity of the omissions, the representations by the two appointed boiler inspectors and the advice by interested parties in the industry, the Authority considered it necessary to suspend the appointment of the two appointed boiler inspectors to deter such misconduct. In respect of the first case, the appointed examiner was suspended for a period of six months, while for the second case the examiner was suspended for a period of two months," the spokesperson said. "The suspension will not affect the validity of other certificates issued by the two appointed boiler inspectors under the Ordinance."
"The system of appointment of appointed examiners under the Ordinance serves the important function of ensuring the proper certification and inspection of boilers and pressure vessels. As part of its ongoing programme of monitoring the performance of the appointed examiners, the Authority conducts regular random inspections of workplaces where such equipment is installed. Appointment of those examiners who fail to discharge their duties properly may be revoked or suspended," the spokesperson warned.
Enquiries on the matter may be directed to the Boilers and Pressure Vessels Division of the Labour Department at 3107 3440.
Ends/Friday, September 14, 2012
Issued at HKT 11:15
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