Renovation works contractors of Eaton Hotel Hong Kong convicted for violating environmental legislation

     IBI Limited, the renovation works contractor of Eaton Hotel Hong Kong at Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui, caused dust dispersion when loading and unloading construction waste into a skip near the hotel. The contractor was convicted at Kwun Tong Magistrates' Courts today (October 11) for contravening the Air Pollution Control (Construction Dust) Regulation. The works contractor and its sub-contractor were also convicted on October 4 for the illegal installation of a signboard using powered mechanical equipment during night-time, which contravened the Noise Control Ordinance (NCO). The contractor and its sub-contractor were fined a total of $40,000 for these two cases.

     The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) received a complaint in March this year that several skips were placed at the roadside near the hotel for loading of construction waste generated by the renovation works of the hotel, which caused dust dispersion and affected pedestrians and nearby residents. EPD enforcement officers conducted an investigation on-site and found that the contractor concerned had not taken any precautionary measures to control the spread of dust when loading and unloading construction waste, causing dust dispersion. During the same period of time, the contractor and its sub-contractor were also found to install a signboard using an electric drill after 7pm and caused noise nuisance to nearby residents. The contractor concerned did not apply for the relevant construction noise permit (CNP) before the commencement of the works. Upon investigation and evidence gathering, the EPD subsequently prosecuted the contractor and its sub-contractor accordingly.

     The spokesman said that renovation works contractors should comply with the Regulation and the NCO to avoid affecting nearby residents and the environment. Anyone who violates the Regulation is liable to a fine of $25,000 for the first offence, while first-time offenders who violate the NCO are liable to a maximum fine of $100,000. A maximum fine of $200,000 may be imposed on second or subsequent convictions.