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The Labour Department has published the Code of Practice for Land-based Construction over Water to give guidance and recommendations on the safety and health practices for land-based construction work carried out on, adjacent to or over water where the workers are liable to the risk of drowning.

The Code, which was approved and issued by the Commissioner for Labour under Section 7A of the Factories and Industrial Undertakings Ordinance, was gazetted today (Friday).

It recommends that the proprietor or contractor should establish a safe system of work to ensure the safety and health at work of his employees. He should devise a good safety management system, which includes:

(a) project planning and design;

(b) selection of contractor or sub-contractor;

(c) risk assessment;

(d) method statement;

(e) co-ordination, communication and supervision;

(f) monitoring safety performance;

(g) contingency plan for adverse weather conditions; and

(h) training

The Code also states clearly that the proprietor or contractor must provide proper working platforms for persons working at height. Every working platform, edge, gangway or run, where a person is liable to fall from height or into water, should have guard-rails and toe-boards. If this is not practicable, suitable and adequate safety nets and safety belts (including safety harnesses) should be used.

Every means of access and egress, whether on land or between a vessel and the shore, should be kept safe, well lit and properly maintained.

If a mobile plant is used on a site near water, there should be kerbs at the edges over water. If the installation of kerbs is impracticable, a safe distance between the plant and the edge should be maintained.

The Code also reminds every person at work who may have the risk of falling into water to wear a lifejacket. Furthermore, the proprietor or contractor should provide suitable and sufficient rescue equipment for use in emergency rescue operations.

Moreover, all site personnel should take care of themselves and others. They should follow the safety procedures, relevant instructions and arrangements for emergency situations, and also use the personal protective equipment provided.

Copies of the bilingual Code are available free at the Advisory and Development Division of the Occupational Safety and Health Branch (OSHB) on 25/F., Western Harbour Centre, 181 Connaught Road West, Hong Kong or any branch offices of the OSHB.

End/Friday, October 22, 1999

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