Intellectual Property Department’s drop-box service suspended this afternoon

     The Intellectual Property Department (IPD) said today (February 24) that a staff member has tested preliminarily positive for COVID-19.

     The staff member last worked in the office on February 23. She has had no contact with the public. She has also properly maintained social distancing with colleagues, and has been wearing face masks and following infection control measures at work. The IPD has required staff concerned to undergo COVID-19 testing and work from home until a negative test result is obtained. The IPD will continue to maintain close liaison with the Centre for Health Protection of the Department of Health in taking appropriate follow-up actions. 

     Due to thorough cleaning and disinfection arranged for its premises, the Department's drop-box service located on 24/F, Wu Chung House, has been suspended and will resume tomorrow (February 25) at 9am. Members of the public are advised to continue to access the services of the Registries through the IPD's E-filing System or send documents by post, and refer to notices posted on the IPD's website (www.ipd.gov.hk/eng/whats_new/news.htm) and the Hong Kong Intellectual Property Journal (www.ipd.gov.hk/eng/ip_journal_notice.htm) for details of the latest special work arrangements in place. For enquiries, please call the IPD on 2961 6901/2961 6820.

     During the pandemic, the IPD has been strictly implementing various infection control measures, and stepping up cleaning and disinfection measures for its working environment. Staff members have been reminded to pay attention to their personal hygiene and stay vigilant at all times. They are advised to seek medical advice immediately if feeling unwell.