SLW visits specimen collection centre for COVID-19 testing service (with photos)

     The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong, visited the specimen collection centre at Harbour Road Sports Centre this afternoon (August 25) to learn more about the specimen collection process of the free COVID-19 testing service for foreign domestic helpers (FDHs).

     "I strongly encourage FDHs staying in boarding facilities to actively participate in the free test to safeguard their health, especially before they join their new employers' family. Employers are advised to check that their new FDHs have a valid negative test result before joining the family. Also, employment agencies are encouraged to help FDHs register for and take the test at the specimen collection centre," Dr Law said.

     As announced by the Labour Department on August 23, a COVID-19 testing service was launched for FDHs whose previous employment contracts have expired or terminated and who are waiting to join the new employers' family. The test is voluntary and free of charge.

     FDHs are eligible for the free combined nasal and throat swab testing service if their previous employment contracts have expired or terminated and they are waiting to join the new employers' family at the time of making the appointment for the testing service. Eligible FDHs are required to make a prior appointment by telephone and provide their specimens at a specified time slot at Harbour Road Sports Centre. As at noon today, 239 FDHs have made an appointment for taking the test.

     Eligible FDHs may dial the registration hotline 1836 133 (9am to 9pm daily) to make an appointment for specimen collection. Same-day appointment will not be offered by the registration hotline and any request without prior appointment will not be accepted. The specimen collection centre is located at Harbour Road Sports Centre, 27 Harbour Road, Wan Chai. It is open daily from 8.30am to 8pm and will operate until September 30.