Construction safety is being enhanced through legislation, training and promotion, Permanent Secretary for Economic Development & Labour Matthew Cheung says.

Speaking at the Construction Safety Courses 2001-02 graduation ceremony today, he said the industry plays a key role in Hong Kong's economic development, and the Government attaches great importance in boosting occupational safety and health.

The number of industrial accidents in the sector dropped by 32.2% from 9,206 in 2001 to 6,739 last year, while the accident rate per 1,000 workers went down 25.7% from 114.6 to 85.2.

Mr Cheung said proper training will enhance workers' safety awareness and help prevent accidents.

A regulation requiring workers to take mandatory basic training on construction safety has been introduced. Workers involved in high-risk jobs also have to attend safety training and obtain relevant certificates.

The Construction Industry Training Authority also offers training courses to enhance workers' awareness of safety and legal requirements.