The Inter-departmental Counter Terrorism Unit (ICTU), jointly with the Tertiary Institutions Safety Advisory Group and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), organised the “Chemical Safety and Security Month” in September. Through publicity and education, inspections and enforcement, as well as emergency response exercises etc., the campaign aimed to enhance public awareness of chemical safety and proper management of chemicals on all fronts.

During the launching ceremony cum thematic seminar held at the Police Headquarters on September 12, over 200 stakeholders in total from academia, laboratories, petrochemical sector and law enforcement agencies, etc., attended to explore various topics relating to chemical safety and security risks. Deputy Commissioner (Operations) Yip Wan-lung stressed in his remarks that the effective mitigation of risks brought by chemicals relies on the collaboration of all stakeholders of the community to collaboratively enable the concept of chemical safety to take root in daily operations, thereby building a more resilient chemical management system to safeguard our community.

During the “Chemical Safety and Security Month”, member departments of ICTU including Customs and Excise Department, Fire Services Department, Government Flying Service and the Force mounted focused enforcement against illegal acts associated with chemicals including surprise inspections at chemical points of sale, aerial patrols and enforcement against illegal fuel filling stations. Officers also visited chemical outlets and hardware stores to explain to the operators the signs of suspicious purchases to enhance the alertness of the salespersons through simulated purchases. Moreover, ICTU officers also visited laboratories in tertiary institutions this month to promote “Spot and Report” and other messages on chemical safety and security.

ICTU also conducted a cross-departmental emergency response exercise with the HKUST on September 28 which simulated a chemical leakage incident occurred inside a laboratory in the university and an occasion in which explosive substance was found. The emergency response team of the university and relevant government departments immediately conducted emergency evacuations and rescue operations. The exercise tested and strengthened the emergency response capabilities of government departments as well as the communication and collaboration between them and stakeholders.

A staff member of the Health, Safety and Environment Office of HKUST explains the chemical screening instruments and contingency equipment in laboratories.

Officers visit chemical outlets and hardware stores to explain the signs of suspicious purchases to the operators through simulated purchases.