Contractor fined for illegal handling of asbestos cement sheets
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A spokesman for the Environmental Protection Department (EPD) said a report was received in August last year that a large amount of asbestos cement debris was generated by the renovation works at the flat. Upon investigation by the EPD, it was confirmed that the information was substantiated and an Asbestos Abatement Notice was subsequently issued to the responsible contractor, On Tat Demolish Engineering Limited, according to the APCO, requiring it to hire a registered asbestos contractor to conduct asbestos decontamination works before conducting other renovation works. During a subsequent inspection by the EPD, it was found that the contractor did not comply with the statutory requirement to remove the asbestos debris. The department thus initiated prosecution against the contractor in accordance with the APCO.
The spokesman explained that improper dismantling of asbestos sheets may lead to the release of asbestos fibres into the air and adversely affect the health of workers and nearby residents. To safeguard public health, the removal of asbestos cement sheets must be carried out by a registered asbestos contractor in accordance with the statutory requirements. Anyone who does not comply with the requirement as stipulated in an Asbestos Abatement Notice will be liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and six months' imprisonment.
Ends/Monday, March 5, 2018
Issued at HKT 18:20
Issued at HKT 18:20
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