Three workers died and six were injured on Wednesday in Hong Kong when a tower crane collapsed at a construction site on Anderson Road, Sau Mau Ping.
Photographs in local media appear to show the crane having fallen onto containers being used as site offices.
The Hong Kong Development Bureau yesterday suspended the main contractor, called Aggressive Construction Company, from bidding for government contracts until 31 December 2023.
The Bureau said further sanctions could follow an investigation into the cause of the collapse. Such actions could include removing Aggressive Construction from the list of approved public works contractors.
A statement in Chinese on the company’s website said: “We are shocked and saddened by the industrial accident that occurred at a construction site on Anderson Road, Sau Mau Ping, on 7 September 2022, at 10:45 am by Aggressive Construction Co., Ltd., and extend our condolences to the victims and their families. Deep condolences. The company has contacted the families of the relevant employees and tried its best to provide all support and assistance. We will fully cooperate with relevant investigations to determine the cause of the accident and follow up.”
According to its website, Aggressive Construction began work on a subsidised housing scheme at Anderson Road Quarry Site R2-2 in September 2021, with work expected to finish in 2025.
A spokesperson for the Hong Kong Labour Department said: “We will complete investigation as soon as possible to identify the cause of the accident, ascertain the liability of the duty holders and recommend improvement measures. We will take action pursuant to the law if there is any violation of the work safety legislation.”
The department said violations of Hong Kong’s Factories and Industrial Undertakings Ordinance carry a maximum fine of HK$500,000 and six months’ imprisonment.
