Used Batteries Spark Fires; New Yau Ma Tei Port to Ban Waste Metal Operations After 2028
On.cc · 1 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago6 MIN
Summary
The Legislative Council's Sub-Committee on Promoting Occupational Safety and Health convened on October 16, 2026, to address two pressing issues: fire hazards at public cargo handling areas and heat stress faced by outdoor workers. The Hong Kong Harbour Transport Workers Union submitted a recommendation paper highlighting recurring fires at these facilities, with many suspected to stem from discarded batteries. In response, the Marine Department announced plans to phase out waste metal recycling operations from the fire-prone New Yau Ma Tei Cargo Working Area by July 2028. Meanwhile, legislators pressed for improved heat protection equipment, noting that workers often must purchase cooling vests themselves at significant cost.
Key Points
- The Marine Department has terminated contracts with five tenants conducting waste metal recycling at New Yau Ma Tei Cargo Working Area, with the remaining two tenants required to vacate by July 2028
- The Hong Kong Harbour Transport Workers Union documented multiple fires at public cargo handling areas, many linked to discarded batteries, and recommended classifying waste batteries as dangerous goods
- Stonecutters Island Public Cargo Working Area will be designated as the dedicated zone for waste metal operations, featuring enhanced fire alarm systems and dedicated fire boat berths
- Legislator Wong Kwok (黃國) highlighted that cooling vests and breathable uniforms can cost workers several hundred dollars out-of-pocket, creating financial hardship
- The Labour Department confirmed that the Work Heat Stress Warning system has been updated and that government contracts now include requirements for contractors to address heat pressure issues
Why It Matters
The phased elimination of waste metal operations from New Yau Ma Tei addresses a long-standing fire safety concern in one of Hong Kong's busiest cargo handling zones. With climate change driving more extreme heat events, ensuring adequate protection for outdoor workers—including affordable access to cooling equipment—becomes critical for occupational health. The dual focus on industrial safety and labour welfare reflects the government's broader commitment to comprehensive worker protection in high-risk industries.
The phased elimination of waste metal operations from New Yau Ma Tei addresses a long-standing fire safety concern in one of Hong Kong's busiest cargo handling zones. With climate change driving more extreme heat events, ensuring adequate protection for outdoor workers—including affordable access to cooling equipment—becomes critical for occupational health. The dual focus on industrial safety and labour welfare reflects the government's broader commitment to comprehensive worker protection in high-risk industries.