Hospital Authority announces test results regarding coating thickness of Kwong Wah Hospital cable trunking

The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

     The Hospital Authority (HA) announces the test results regarding the coating thickness of the Kwong Wah Hospital (KWH) cable trunking as follows:

     The HA appointed an independent expert to test the coating thickness of the cable trunkings at KWH earlier. Report submitted to the HA by the independent expert confirms that the thickness of the coating material does not meet the specification standards stated on the contract. The HA has taken follow-up actions against the contractor regarding the results and terms of contract. Meawhile, the HA has requested the contractor to conduct a detailed investigation and explain reason for violation. If any criminal elements are found, the HA will report to law enforcement authorities for further investigation.

    The Chief Manager (Capital Planning) of the HA, Mr Andrew Wong, said, "The independent expert appointed by the HA conducted a series of tests on the cable trunking of KWH, including arranging for a technician from an accredited laboratory to measure the thickness of the coating by elcometer on-site and instructing HA's facility personnel to collect cable trunking samples on site and sent to an accredited laboratory for thorough testing, measuring the thickness and weight of the cable trunking coating material with specialised laboratory equipment. The test data showed that the thickness of the cable trunking coating material is less than the standard of 20μm, amid the weight does not meet the relevant standard of 275 gram per square metre. The independent expert confirmed that the thickness and weight of the cable trunking coating are substandard and do not meet the standards stipulated in the project contract."

     The HA has been following up on the test result submitted by the independent expert and has written to the contractor again, requesting the contractor to explain the substandard coating thickness of the cable trunking. The HA will pursue its liabilities in accordance with the contract terms and has also instructed the project consultant and contractor to take the following remedial measures:
 

• Reinstall the substandard cable trunking in a prioritised manner without affecting the operation of the hospital (including strengthening arrangements for inspection, maintenance and repair etc even when replacement for cable trunking are not yet required); and
• Bear the additional expenses and losses incurred by the HA due to the substandard materials.

     Mr Wong emphasised again that the cable trunking coating is used to cover the metal shell of the cable trunking to prevent rusting and does not pose additional risks to the safety of patients and staff nor impact on the building's structure, fire safety and hospital operations. The cable trunking is mainly installed in sealed maintenance ducts or roof ceilings. They serve as conduits for storing cables, which are normally non-accessible to patients or the public. However, the substandard thickness of the coating may limit the durability of trunking. The HA has required the contractor to take all practical remedial measures. The HA will also comply with the new measures introduced to all public works projects in accepting or testing the materials provided by contactors and suppliers.