ENG-1960 — Page 77

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EMPLOYMENT

monitored by a film badge to ensure that radioactive absorption does not exceed the maximum concentration that is allowed.

Field surveys and factory inspections are essential parts of the work of the Section because industrial health problems can only be treated by investigation on the spot and continuous research. Samples of air are taken to determine the concentration and content of toxic gases, vapours, and fumes and to analyse the concentration and size of particles of dust. Temperature and ventilation studies are carried out and radiation hazards controlled.

The clinical aspects of industrial health involve the physical examination of workers in special trades, blood and urine exami- nations, and chest x-ray surveys. Comparatively few types of occupational disease are known to exist in Hong Kong but it is believed that cases occur which are either unrecognized or not notified. Early in 1960, metal-fume fever (or brassfounder's ague) was diagnosed among workers in a brass foundry. Neither manage- ment nor workers were aware that the disease existed and had previously regarded it as either influenza or malaria. Notifica- tion of occupational diseases is not compulsory and workers suffering from occupational diseases are not entitled to workmen's compensation.

The Industrial Health Section works closely with the labour inspectorate and joint visits are often arranged to factories, followed by joint discussions with managements. Satisfactory solu- tions to health and safety problems can often be found on the spot. Unhealthy or unsafe working conditions sometimes arise from ignorance and it is often possible during factory visits to explain to management and workers why a particular practice is unhealthy or unsafe.

Three Health Visitors carry out case work on persons injured in occupational accidents, and maintain liaison with hospitals, doctors, factories, and officers of the Labour Department who deal with workmen's compensation.

Many cases of industrial injury require urgent rehabilitation. The Hong Kong Society for Rehabilitation plans to establish a permanent rehabilitation centre at Kwun Tong, with physiotherapy and occupational therapy units and residential accommodation for 80 injured persons.