Labour Department completes territory-wide special enforcement operation
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During the special enforcement operation starting from November 28, the LD inspected 467 construction sites, with 249 written warnings and 112 improvement notices issued as well as 25 prosecutions initiated, which mainly involved the prohibition of smoking at sites, as well as violations such as failure to maintain fire escapes and fire-fighting appliances in good condition, unsafe working at height, and failure to provide personal protective equipment.
The LD will continue to follow up on the improvement progress of the construction sites with violations. If unsafe working conditions persist, the LD will take actions in accordance with the law. The LD will also continue to inspect work sites where scaffold nets have been removed from external walls of buildings. If work on external walls is still being carried out on scaffolds, the LD will notify relevant departments to follow up. If imminent risks such as objects falling from scaffolds are detected, the LD will take enforcement actions immediately, including issuing suspension notices and taking out prosecutions, without issuing prior warning.
The LD reiterated that contractors must strictly implement all site safety measures to ensure the occupational safety and health of employees. Under the general duty provisions of the Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance, employers are obligated to provide safe working environments, plant and systems of work for their employees. Those who contravene the relevant legislation with serious circumstances are liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for two years.
Ends/Friday, December 12, 2025
Issued at HKT 18:59
Issued at HKT 18:59
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