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Employers, contractors and employees should be aware of electrical safety at work during rainstorm

     As the rainstorm warning has been issued by the Hong Kong Observatory, the Labour Department (LD) reminds employers and contractors that they should adopt necessary work arrangements and take suitable safety measures to protect the safety of their employees when they are carrying out electrical work or handling electrical plant.

     A spokesman for the LD said today (July 18) that employers and contractors should avoid assigning employees to carry out electrical work (like electric arc welding work) or handle electrical plant at places affected by rainstorms, and should refer to the “Code of Practice in Times of Adverse Weather and ‘Extreme Conditions'” and the “Guide on Safety at Work in times of Inclement Weather” issued by the LD.

     Even if electrical work is carried out or electrical plant is handled at places not affected by the rainstorm, suitable safety measures must still be adopted to prevent electric shock as the air would be more humid. Such measures include:

(i) Ensure that all live parts of an electrical installation are isolated from the power supply source and rendered dead, and the isolation from the power supply source must be maintained as long as electrical work is being carried out;

(ii) Before carrying out any electrical work or handling any electrical plant, cut off and lock out the power supply source, then test the circuit concerned to confirm it is dead and display suitable warning notices, and issue a work permit thereafter;

(iii) Ensure that protective devices (such as suitable and adequate fuses and circuit breakers) for the electrical installations or electrical plant have been installed and maintained in good working order, and portable electric tools must be double-insulated or properly earthed;

(iv) Provide suitable personal protective equipment such as insulating gloves and insulating mats for employees; and

(v) If live electrical work is unavoidable, a comprehensive risk assessment should be conducted by a competent person and the appropriate safety precautions should be taken to remove or properly control the electrical hazards involved before such work can proceed.

     In addition, employees should co-operate with the employer or contractor to follow the safety instructions and use the safety equipment provided.

     The LD has published guidebooks and leaflets on electrical work safety. These safety publications are available free from divisional offices of the department or can be downloaded from its website (www.labour.gov.hk/eng/public/content2_8.htm).

     Should there be any questions about occupational safety and health matters, please contact the Occupational Safety Officer of the LD at 2559 2297. read more

Hong Kong films take centre stage in New York (with photos)

     â€‹Supported by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, New York (HKETONY), Hong Kong films took centre stage at the 23rd New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF) with an impressive line-up of 11 films across various genres under the “Hong Kong Panorama” film series, including two world premieres and four North American premieres.
      
     Among others, the multitalented Hong Kong entertainer Nicholas Tse was presented with the prestigious Star Asia Award on July 17 (New York time) for his dedication and breakthrough performances over the years.
      
     The HKETONY hosted a special reception for Tse before the award presentation ceremony and the North American premiere of his latest work “Customs Frontline”, which marks his debut as an action choreographer. He was cheered by a full house at the Walter Reade Theater of Film at Lincoln Center.
      
     Congratulating Tse, the Director of HKETONY, Ms Maisie Ho, said his outstanding performances in various roles have captivated audiences around the world and are testaments to the depth and versatility of Hong Kong’s talent and films.
      
     “Building on our rich film legacy and tradition, our talented filmmakers continue to innovate and explore new genres, as they seek to transcend borders with their visionary approach and versatile performances that exemplify a unique blend of artistry, innovation, and unparalleled cinematic experience,” Ms Ho said.
      
     She added that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government continues to support the development of Hong Kong’s film industry through various initiatives, including enhancing local film production, nurturing talent, expanding markets and audiences globally.
      
     This year’s “Hong Kong Panorama” is showcasing three films that have received such support. “Fly Me to the Moon” and “Love Lies” are winners of the Hong Kong Film Development Council’s 6th First Feature Film Initiative, while “Inexternal” received support under the Film Production Financing Scheme.
      
     Earlier in the week, the NYAFF bestowed the Star Asia Lifetime Achievement Award on veteran actor Tai Bo. An indispensable presence in Hong Kong cinema, Tai Bo’s natural on-screen talent has earned him numerous awards. The New York audience had the chance to see his riveting performances in “All Shall Be Well” and “Twilight Kiss”, along with “For Alice” at the festival.
      
     The NYAFF has also selected “Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In”, one of Hong Kong’s most-watched films of all times, as its closing film of the season, to be shown on July 28. The film is a testament to Hong Kong’s martial arts and action choreographic excellence. The screening will be the North American premiere of the film.
      
     Aside from Tse and Tai Bo, other filmmakers in attendance at the NYAFF include actor Philip Ng; actresses Patra Au, Josie Ho and Kuku So; directors Chow Kam-wing, Sasha Chuk, Ho Miu-ki, Ray Yeung; producer John Chong; and screenwriter Lam Tsz-ki.

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