The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     The spokesperson for Prince of Wales Hospital today (November 17) announced an incident involving a chemical leakage:

     A formaldehyde leakage incident occurred at the Department of Clinical Pathology of Prince of Wales Hospital at around noon today. The hospital immediately activated contingency measures, cordoned off the affected area, promptly notified the Fire Services Department and the Police, and arranged for approximately 180 staff members working in the department to leave the affected area in an orderly manner before the arrival of firemen. Three staff members felt unwell and attended the Accident and Emergency Department. The staff members were in stable condition. Some affected staff have been temporarily deployed to other units within the department. Clinical services of the hospital were not affected. Staff have returned to their working locations under safe circumstances. 

     A preliminary investigation found that the formaldehyde was leaked while it was being transported by a chemical waste contractor. 

     The hospital has stringent guidelines to regulate the storage, handling, and disposal of chemicals. The hospital is very concerned about the incident and has instructed the chemical waste contractor to submit an investigation report as soon as possible to follow up on the incident immediately and implement remedial measures. The hospital will render support to staff members in need and has reported the incident to the Hospital Authority Head Office via the Advance Incident Reporting System.

Ends/Monday, November 17, 2025
Issued at HKT 18:25

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