EMPLOYMENT
The service arranges medical assessments for injured workers, provides medical support to the Recompression Treatment Centre, runs two occupational health clinics. and disseminates information on occupational safety and health to the public.
Occupational Safety and Health Council
The Occupational Safety and Health Council (OSHC) was established in 1988 to foster a safety culture and a healthier and safer working environment, through education and training, publicity, consultancy, information services and research.
At its Occupational Safety and Health Training Centre, the council offers training courses on forklift truck operation, abrasive wheel operation, the use of personal protective equipment and competency courses for working in a confined space and working at a height. It also offers regular continuing professional development programmes to keep the occupational safety and health professionals abreast of new developments. In 2000, a total of 15 753 persons attended 504 training courses organised by the council, representing an increase by 2 753 persons over 1999.
On the international front, the council organised the Safety and Health Expo, comprising a two-day international conference and a three-day exhibition, and took part in the 8th China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau Occupational Safety and Health Regional Conference.
Major safety and health promotional efforts during the year included the 'Green Cross Day', the 'Good Housekeeping Day' the 'Healthy Day', the 'Safety Day' and the annual 'Occupational Safety and Health Week'. A significant achievement was made by establishing 'Safe Communities' in Tuen Mun and Kwai Tsing to promote occupational safety at community levels. The council was also appointed by the World Health Organisation as its 6th Safe Community Affiliated Support Centre to facilitate community-based organisations in collaboration on programmes for raising general safety awareness and consciousness of the public and the workforce.
During the year, the OSHC signed on as one of the contributing partners to the Government's Small and Medium Enterprises Information Centre. In October, the council launched the OSH Enhancement Scheme for Small and Medium Enterprises in the Catering Trade. The scheme would be extended to other trades as one of the council's strategic programmes.
Employees' Compensation
In Hong Kong, the employees' compensation system adopts the no-fault principle whereby compensation is payable irrespective of whether the injury, the occupational disease or death was caused by the employee's fault. The Employees' Compensation Ordinance operates on the basis of individual liability by employers and covers injuries or death caused by accidents arising out of and in the course of employment or by specified occupational diseases. Employers are required to take out compulsory insurance policies to cover their liabilities under the ordinance and at common law.
The Employees' Compensation Division of the Labour Department, which administers the Employees' Compensation Ordinance, assists injured employees and family members of deceased employees to obtain compensation from their employers. It also administers a scheme to provide interest-free loans to those who need financial assistance as a result of a work-related accident.
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