Gym Apologizes After Cleaning Worker Accidentally Kills Bird in Tuen Mun Branch
SingTao · 1 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
A cleaning contractor at the 24/7 FITNESS gym in Tuen Mun accidentally killed a bird that flew into the gym on August 11. The incident, reported on social media platform Threads at around 11am, sparked public outrage after the worker reportedly used a towel to chase the bird, resulting in its death. The gym chain has since apologized, suspended the contractor, and committed to improving wildlife handling procedures.
Key Points
- The incident occurred at the 24/7 FITNESS branch located in Tai Hing Gardens Commercial Centre, Tuen Mun, on August 11, 2024
- The cleaning contractor, employed by an outsourced cleaning company, panicked and lacked proper guidelines when attempting to remove the bird
- The gym issued an official statement expressing deep regret, acknowledging failures in emergency response mechanisms and staff training
- Immediate improvements include contacting local animal protection organizations to develop standard procedures for handling wildlife inside premises
- Under Hong Kong's Wildlife Protection Ordinance (Cap. 170), harming wild birds carries a maximum penalty of HK$100,000 fine and one year imprisonment
Why It Matters
The incident highlights gaps in workplace safety and animal welfare training for contracted staff at commercial establishments across Hong Kong. As the gym chain has committed to working with the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department and animal welfare groups, this case may set a precedent for improved protocols nationwide when dealing with wildlife encounters in urban settings .
The incident highlights gaps in workplace safety and animal welfare training for contracted staff at commercial establishments across Hong Kong. As the gym chain has committed to working with the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department and animal welfare groups, this case may set a precedent for improved protocols nationwide when dealing with wildlife encounters in urban settings .