Over 1,600 entries were received for a safety slogan competition in support of the Lift and Escalator Safety Campaign.

MECHANICAL SAFETY

Amusement Rides
Several large-scale carnivals - featuring more than 50 temporary amusement rides - took place in Hong Kong during the year, bringing considerable challenges to EMSD. To process the relevant applications at short notice, we mobilised and redeployed our resources in order to review technical submissions and perform safety inspections on site on a very tight schedule. Our commitment and professionalism not only won the recognition and appreciation of carnival organisers, but also ensured that safety standards were adhered to while members of the general public were enjoying the rides. No incidents of mechanical failure causing personal injury were reported on these rides.

Disney Theme Park Project
EMSD has formed a dedicated team to work on the Disney Theme Park Project, for which preparatory work is proceeding at full pace. As the technical advisor sitting on several of the working groups, EMSD is responsible for facilitating and monitoring the infrastructural work in Penny's Bay, in addition to reviewing the design of the amusement rides which will form the core facilities of the theme park.

Tung Chung Cable Car Project
The Tung Chung Cable Car Project has been awarded to the MTR Corporation. As a member of the Technical Assessment Panel, EMSD continued to play an advisory role on technical and safety issues, including rescue operations and environmental matters. Preliminary meetings have been held to review the design of the project.

On another note, the code of practice is now being updated to keep pace with recent developments in the design and installation of aerial ropeways.

Lift Owner's Guidebook
A new guidebook is being prepared to help lift owners on such issues as repair and maintenance, and regulatory requirements. It features practical tips, dos and don'ts, and frequently asked questions, as well as common problems facing the lift owner.

Trade Communications
and Education
In an effort to encourage continuous learning and to refresh technical skills, EMSD joined forces with the Lift and Escalator Contractors Association, the Labour Department and the Occupational Safety and Health Council to organise a quiz among lift and escalator workers in early 2003.

Air-con Tramcar on Trial
In a bid to improve its service, Hong Kong Tramway Ltd has converted four of its tramcars from wooden to aluminium frames. One of these aluminium tramcars has now been retrofitted with air-conditioning for a trial run. EMSD helped in reviewing its technical submissions with a focus on safety issues.

EMSD monitors the installation, operation and maintenance of over 42,000 lifts and 5,400 escalators throughout the territory.
Several large-scale carnivals featuring more than 50 temporary amusement rides took place in Hong Kong this year.
Tower working platforms are among the various mechanical installations under EMSD's regulation.

Facts & Figures
In ensuring public safety, EMSD monitors the installation, operation and maintenance of over 42,000 lifts and 5,400 escalators, as well as amusement rides, builders' lifts and tower working platforms throughout Hong Kong. In 2001, we conducted more than 7,000 inspections, and processed more than 52,000 periodic test certificates.

As to the registration of contractors and service providers in Hong Kong, there are currently 48 lift contractors registered with EMSD, 36 of which are also registered as contractors for escalators as well.

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