Inspections found no similar problems in ongoing lift-shaft construction and lift-installation projects across the government building and hospital programmes examined, the government said. The checks covered projects overseen by the Architectural Services Department and the Hospital Authority, not completed projects or every lift.
The checks followed reported problems with newly installed lifts at Queen Mary Hospital’s new clinical building. The reported issues included deviations in shaft dimensions, misaligned shafts and installation problems. The Secretary for Development said an investigation report on the lift works had recently been submitted to the Chief Executive.
The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department has begun a review of requirements and oversight for new lift installations and major alterations. It covers inspection and maintenance requirements, supervision, regulation and approval, as well as lift inspections and sampling. The department expects to complete the review by the end of the year.
The department said it would immediately widen the checks carried out during on-site remeasurement to cover critical features affecting lift operation, including stability and reliability, smooth running and fire-door devices. Its staff would also conduct spot checks on site.
Over the past five years, the department investigated 45 cases involving breaches by registered lift contractors or engineering personnel. These included maintenance violations and the issuing of false or misleading safety certificates. The figures record 22 successful prosecutions and 10 disciplinary actions.
A legislator interviewed by Commercial Radio said recent large-scale errors led him to fear they could pose a systemic risk, despite the three-tier inspection arrangement involving contractors, registered engineers and department checks. He called for a review of possible gaps and for the government to explain whether previous spot checks had been properly carried out.
The Development Bureau said it would report to the Legislative Council and publicly explain its investigation into the Queen Mary Hospital lift problems as soon as possible.