Worker Dies After Falling From Height During Aircraft Maintenance at Hong Kong Airport
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A 62-year-old aircraft maintenance worker died after falling from a six-meter platform at Hong Kong International Airport.
- The incident occurred while the worker was performing maintenance on the exterior of an aircraft for Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company (HAECO).
- The Labour Department is investigating the fatal workplace accident, with an association advocating for industrial accident victims emphasizing the need for safety protocols.
Hong Kong authorities have launched an investigation into a fatal workplace accident at the airport after a maintenance worker fell to his death. The incident occurred early Monday morning at the Hong Kong International Airport, involving an employee of the Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company (HAECO).
According to reports, the 62-year-old worker was carrying out maintenance on the exterior of an aircraft when he fell from a six-meter platform. He was found unconscious and subsequently transported to North Lantau Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The Labour Department has confirmed it is investigating the circumstances surrounding the fall.
The Association for the Rights of Industrial Accident Victims (ARIAV) highlighted the importance of adhering to safety protocols when working at height. They stressed the necessity of safety helmets, railings, and protective barriers on platforms. For power-operated platforms, wearing a full-body harness is also recommended.
HAECO, an aircraft engineering and maintenance firm based at the airport and part of the Swire Group, reported the incident to the police. The Association for the Rights of Industrial Accident Victims stated that its staff visited the hospital to offer support to the deceased worker's family members.
When working at height, workers should adhere to safety protocols including wearing a safety helmet, and that platforms should also be equipped with railings and other protective barriers. Those working on platforms that are power-operated should wear a full-body harness.
Originally published by Hong Kong Free Press in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.