Although safety at large-scale construction works has improved recently, accidents at small-scale projects are on the rise, Permanent Secretary for Economic Development & Labour Matthew Cheung says.

At a ceremony today, Mr Cheung said the works involve repair, maintenance and minor alteration. Accidents for the first three quarters of 2005 were 1,070, representing 41.4% of the total. It rose to 1,307 in the same period last year, 50.3% of the total.

"We are concerned about this rise. The Labour Department will strive to improve the occupational safety and health of employees in the construction industry," he said.