Investigation launched into fatal accident involving aeroplane maintenance worker falling from height

Hong Kong authorities are investigating a fatal workplace accident involving a worker who fell from a height at the airport in Chek Lap Kok.

Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company. Photo: HAECO.

Police received a report from the Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company (HAECO) at around 8am on Monday that a worker had fallen from a six-metre platform while carrying out maintenance work on the exterior of an aircraft, local media reported.

The 62-year-old worker was unconscious and sent to North Lantau Hospital, where he was confirmed dead.

The Association for the Rights of Industrial Accident Victims (ARIAV) said in a Facebook post on Monday that staff had gone to the hospital and will provide necessary support to family members.

North Lantau Hospital. Photo: Wikicommons.

ARIAV said that, when working at height, workers should adhere to safety protocols including wearing a safety helmet, and that platforms should also be equipped with railings and other protective barriers.

Those working on platforms that are power-operated should wear a full-body harness, the association added.

Authorities said in a statement that the Labour Department is investigating the accident.

According to its website, HAECO is an aircraft engineering and maintenance company based at the Hong Kong International Airport. It is under the Swire Group.