A spokesman for the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) said today (May 2) that the department has been adopting a multipronged approach to address environmental hygiene nuisances caused by dripping air conditioners. In preparation for the upcoming summer, the department has rolled out proactive measures, including enhancing publicity and education campaigns, as well as targeted inspections of buildings with related issues. From May to September, the FEHD will conduct territory-wide enforcement operations to crack down on illegal acts of dripping air conditioners in private buildings, aiming to minimise nuisances to the public, enhance environmental hygiene, and improve the city's appearance.

     Over the past two weeks (April 16 to 30), FEHD staff have escalated publicity and education efforts across various districts, including distributing promotional leaflets, displaying posters and putting up banners with property management companies and local community members. These initiatives aim to enhance public awareness and foster a sense of responsibility regarding dripping air conditioners, reminding them to take preventive measures to mitigate nuisances proactively. During the period, about 16,000 related leaflets and posters were distributed, among which 495 buildings and housing estates were involved. In addition, FEHD staff have been closely liaising with District Offices and District Council members and committee members to participate in various related publicity activities and work and, through the community network, encouraging the public to face and follow up the problem of dripping air conditioners. The department will also continue to utilise various channels and means to disseminate relevant information to the public, including online platforms and launching thematic webpages.

     Between May and September, the FEHD will continue to conduct blitz operations targeting dripping air conditioner blackspots across various districts. This targeted enforcement strategy aims to enhance the effectiveness of addressing the issue.

     In accordance with the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132), a person shall be guilty of an offence if he allows his air conditioner to discharge water in such a manner as to be a hygiene nuisance to others. If a nuisance is proven, the FEHD will issue a Nuisance Notice to require the owner or occupier of the relevant premises to abate the nuisance within a specified period. A person who fails to comply may be prosecuted and, upon conviction, is liable to a maximum penalty of a fine of $10,000, as well as a daily fine of $200 as long as the nuisance continues.

     ​The FEHD calls on members of the public to check their air conditioners regularly. If water dripping is detected, they should expeditiously resolve the problem and avoid causing a nuisance to others. For more information, please refer to the leaflet on the FEHD website (www.fehd.gov.hk/english/pleasant_environment/library/aircon/CheckMaintainAC.pdf).    

Ends/Friday, May 2, 2025
Issued at HKT 17:30

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