Trenching work, the kind that I do for a wide number of companies in Hong Kong, is one of the most dangerous jobs in construction, and one of the most publicly visible (Andersen, Grude and Tor, 1995; Spinner, 1997). In the Region of Hong Kong and the HKSAR there are numerous requirements for closing off streets and posting notices to avoid injuries to pedestrians and civilians. Because the job is so public, it is one of the first areas inspected by official authorities functioning under the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Factories and Industrial Undertakings Ordinance (FIUO), Chapter 59, is the principal legislation for safety and health at work in Hong Kong. Under the Ordinance, 27 Regulations have been made to prescribe detailed safety and health standards on work situations, plant and machinery, processes, and substances. The FIUO is enforced by the Labour Department, and its original purpose was, according to the HKSAR official website, was originally
standard setting and enforcement. An amendment in 1989 introduced the general duties provisions in line with an international trend towards self-regulation. Under the provisions, the employers are responsible for taking all reasonably practical steps, to ensure the health and safety of all persons employed at the workplace. The workers also have the duty to exercise reasonable care at work and co-operate with the employers on safety measures. The penalties for breaches of the general duties provisions have been increased with effect from 23 May 1997 with a view to strengthening the deterrent effect of the provisions. (FUIO, online).
It is to the advantage of people working in the construction industry to follow each of the 27 requirements to the letter. The next part of this paper deals with the Job Safety Analysis, and its worksheets.
Date: ______________________ Job Site Location
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