Ombudsman unveils 40 recommendations for enhancing construction industry safety standards

16th April 2025 – (Hong Kong) The Ombudsman, Mr Jack Chan, has revealed a comprehensive direct investigation operation addressing the regulation of occupational safety and health (OSH) in Hong Kong’s construction industry. This investigation has resulted in 40 significant recommendations aimed at enhancing safety measures, directed towards the Labour Department (LD), the Buildings Department (BD), and the Development Bureau (DEVB).

In the past years, the construction sector has witnessed a surge in fatal industrial accidents, spanning from large-scale public works to minor flat renovations, sparking widespread public apprehension. Over a six-year period from 2018 to 2023, the industry reported a staggering total of 108 fatal industrial accidents, constituting over 80% of such incidents across all sectors.

Mr Chan highlighted the scale and depth of this investigation, involving meticulous scrutiny of over 90,000 pages of documents and in-depth site visits. Emphasising the importance of safety in the construction realm, Mr Chan stressed the imperative of stringent measures to prevent fatal accidents. While acknowledging the government’s efforts in introducing targeted improvements, Mr Chan underlined the necessity for continuous vigilance and enhancement of safety protocols.

Instances of negligence by “competent persons” in high-risk operations like bamboo scaffolds and lifting appliances were spotlighted, exposing lapses in safety inspections. Such oversights pose a serious hazard to workers and the public at large. The Ombudsman suggested a multifaceted approach to monitoring, including the formulation of inspection templates, maintenance of records, and random checks to deter unprofessional conduct.

The inadequacy of penalties for OSH violations within the construction sector was highlighted, with fines between $8,000 and $10,500 annually proving insufficient as deterrents. Repeat offenders and delays in disciplinary actions against errant contractors were also brought to light, prompting the need for more stringent regulations and swift disciplinary measures.

Addressing the need for improved safety standards in public works projects, the Ombudsman called for a thorough review of the tender evaluation system to prioritise contractors with exemplary safety records. Notably, renovation and repair works accounted for a significant portion of fatal accidents, necessitating heightened safety awareness among property management entities and residents.

The Ombudsman’s recommendations spanned various crucial areas, encompassing enhanced regulation and monitoring protocols, stringent penalties, and a concerted effort towards safety education and promotion. These recommendations, accepted by the relevant departments, aim to bolster safety practices across the construction industry and ensure the well-being of workers and the public.

Mr Chan concluded by stressing the collective responsibility of stakeholders, urging unified efforts to fortify site safety measures, eliminate hazardous practices, and prevent accidents for the greater good of society.