Contents
- Introduction
- CHAPTER I Food and Environmental Hygiene Department
- CHAPTER II Food Safety and Public Health Programme
- CHAPTER III Regulator and Facilitator of the Food Trade
- CHAPTER IV Environmental Hygiene
- CHAPTER V Administration and Development
- CHAPTER VI Appendices
Introduction
2001, the second year of the setting up of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department as a new department, has been both eventful and rewarding. Imbued with the pride which this new identity gives us, we charged ahead in the various fields of our work with renewed vigour and commitment.
Knowing how close our work is to the lives of the public, we seek continuous improvement to attain a high standard of service. In 2001, of the 49 targets we set for ourselves in the performance pledges, we were able to exceed 29 and attained 18 of them. Not content with this level of performance, we have upgraded nine of these targets for 2002 so as to strive for even better results.
On the environmental hygiene side, subsequent to the launch of the Clean Hong Kong Programme in December 2000, we strengthened cleansing work in respect of streets, public toilets and markets. This was achieved through injecting additional manpower and introducing new cleansing initiatives including stationing cleaners in places with heavy pedestrian flow, and cleaning up ¡§grey areas¡¨ such as ungazetted beaches where hitherto no department has assumed cleansing responsibility. With the help of District Councils, we formulated District Action Plans to tackle district hygiene blackspots.
The food safety scene has been equally active. To raise our capability in food research to ensure our food is fit for human consumption, we have established a Food Research Laboratory to study nutrients in local food, support dietary studies and risk assessment projects. Aware of the public interest in and growing prevalence of genetically modified food, we have also set up a section to develop and co-ordinate work in this area. Our web site launched in September 2001 on nutrient inquiry provides nutrient information of some 1 000 commonly consumed food items to facilitate the public to make healthy food choices.
You will read about much more of our work in this annual report. As we keep emphasising all along, your input and co-operation are vital in helping to ensure safe food and a clean environment. With your support, we would be moving ever closer to realising our vision of building Hong Kong into a world-class metropolis renowned for its food safety and public hygiene!
Chapter I
Food and Environmental Hygiene Department
The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, set up on January 1, 2000, serves the 6.7 million people in the city with a wide spectrum of services, ranging from food surveillance and certification to the planning, co-ordination, and delivery of environmental hygiene services and public education on safe food and environmental cleanliness.
With an establishment of some 15 000 staff members, the Department delivers the services through three branches - Food and Public Health Branch, Environmental Hygiene Branch as well as Administration and Development Branch.
Calendar of Events in 2001
January
1
The Department introduces a tracing system of the source of pork to identify batches of pig carcasses delivered from the Sheung Shui Slaughterhouse and Tsuen Wan Slaughterhouse to retail outlets.
6
The Department smashes a 300-square-metre unlicensed meat roasting factory in Tai Tong, Yuen Long, which is the largest unlicensed meat roasting factory smashed in the year. About 5 000 kg of raw and roasted meat, together with six roasting ovens and ancillary paraphernalia are seized.
18
The Department stages the Lunar Year Fair in 12 districts for seven days.
20
The Department stages the Che Kung Festival Fair in Sha Tin for 19 days.
February
1
The Department organises the first series of school talks aiming at promoting students' awareness of the importance of a clean Hong Kong.
26
The Government launches a consultation exercise to gauge views on the options proposed for labelling of genetically modified food.
April
1
The new air-conditioned Chai Wan Market opens for business.
9
The Anti-mosquito Campaign 2001 is launched to arouse public awareness of safeguarding personal health and improving environmental cleanliness. The first phase of the Campaign ends on May 5, which significantly lowers the mosquito population.
19
The Department releases results of a risk assessment on aflatoxin contamination in food. Aflatoxins are toxic substances commonly found in nuts products and are carcinogenic in human.
28
District Action Plans under the Clean Hong Kong Programme with the full support of all District Councils are put in place.
The import of chilled pork produced by a slaughtering plant in Thailand is suspended after a sample of pork taken from an imported consignment at the airport is confirmed with the presence of beta-agonist.
May
1-16
An FEHD delegation visits food safety authorities of the countries of the European Union and the Director-General of the Health and Consumer Protection of the European Commission.
16, 18 - 20
The Department carries out depopulation of live poultry at fresh provision shops and market stalls to eliminate the risk of spread of the avian flu.
26
The Chairman of the Steering Committee on Clean Hong Kong, Dr Daniel Tse, joins with the Secretary for the Environment and Food, Mrs Lily Yam, and other members of the Steering Committee and its Publicity and Public Education Group to witness the joint cleansing operation of the Department and Marine Department at the Victoria Harbour.
27
Sentinel live chickens are placed at retail markets to test for the elimination of avian flu virus.
28
The Department announces the extension of rental freeze for all public markets to the end of 2001.
June
2
The Chairman of the Steering Committee on Clean Hong Kong, Dr Daniel Tse, the Chairman of the Southern District Council and other Government representatives officiate at the Clean Hong Kong Beach Carnival in Repulse Bay. More than 6 000 people from all walks of life take part in the function.
12
Supply of live waterfowl from the Mainland resumes after the avian flu incident.
14
A risk communication series on "Seasonal Food Safety Tips" is launched to give advice on food consumption.
15
Supply of live poultry from the Mainland resumes after the avian flu incident.
18
The Department sets up a Genetically Modified Food Section.
The Department implements the third phase (Enhancement Phase) of the Anti-rodent Campaign for 2000-2001, resulting in reduction of rodent population after a six-week operation.
28
The Food Hygiene Campaign, under the theme "Manage Risk for Food Safety", kicks off.
July
12
The Fixed Penalty (Public Cleanliness Offences) Bill, providing for a fixed penalty of $600 for a number of public cleanliness offences, is passed by the Legislative Council. The offences include littering, spitting, unauthorised display of bills or posters and dog fouling in public places.
14
More than 7 800 people take part in the Clean Hong Kong Beach Carnival at the Golden Beach in Tuen Mun.
17
A training programme to promote the adoption of the Food Safety Plan for food handlers selling or manufacturing siu mei and lo mei makes its debut.
20
About 400 Food and Environmental Hygiene Department staff join hands with the Police in the biggest operation ever mounted against illegal hawkers in Tin Shui Wai, Yuen Long. Seventeen illegal cooked food stalls are smashed and 36 tonnes of food and equipment are carted away in 50 vehicles.
25
The Department implements the monthly "Rest Day Clean-up" policy on fresh provision shops and market stalls selling live poultry as a preventive measure against avian flu and to further improve the hygiene condition of the shops and stalls.
27
The Department releases results of a microbiological risk assessment on siu mei and lo mei and gives advice to the trade on measures to improve the microbiological quality of siu mei and lo mei.
August
16, 21, 27
Three fish tank water samples are separately found to have Vibrio Cholerae which necessitate the closure of two food premises and a market stall immediately for thorough cleansing and disinfection.
31
The Department starts the second phase of the Anti-mosquito Campaign 2001 to combat dengue fever.
September
3
The Department announces results of a risk assessment of the microbiological quality of ice-cream and advises the trade on the hygiene practices in manufacturing and handling of ice-cream.
5
The Department announces the food surveillance results for the first half of 2001. The overall trend was satisfactory with the unsatisfactory rates for both microbiological examination and chemical analysis continued to decrease. Food surveillance results are important information used by the Department to conduct risk assessment and to formulate appropriate measures to enhance food safety.
14
The Department sets up a web site "Nutrient Information Inquiry System" (http://fehd-niis.gov.hk) to provide nutrient information to the public and to facilitate them to make healthy food choices. The web site captures nutrient information of some 1 000 commonly consumed food items that are of relevance and interest to the local community.
15, 16
Over 1 500 people from different sectors of the community, organisations from private sector, green groups and non-government organisations join hands with the Department, Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department and Marine Department to clean major and minor ungazetted beaches in Tuen Mun, Tsuen Wan, Sai Kung and the southern part of Hong Kong and some marine parks. The activities are organised in support of the International Coastal Clean Up Day.
18
The Department conducts a large scale clean-up operation in a grey area in Lau Fau Shan, Yuen Long. The Department has undertaken enhanced measures to clean grey areas where the cleansing responsibility has not been designated to a single department in the past.
An Advisory Panel on Food Consumption Survey, comprising academics, health professionals and statistician, is formed to advise the Department on the methodology and conduct of food consumption surveys in Hong Kong. The information obtained from the surveys will be useful for risk assessment and planning of food safety control.
19
Upon discovery of the first Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy case in cattle in Japan, the import of beef from Japan is immediately suspended.
23
More than 800 hikers and scouts take part in the Clean Country Park Trails Day which also marks the launching of the Clean Country Park Thematic Work Plan under the Clean Hong Kong Programme.
The Chairman of the Steering Committee on Clean Hong Kong, Dr Daniel Tse, and the acting Secretary for the Environment and Food, Mrs Stella Hung, officiate at the "Swear-In" Ceremony of over 1 200 Clean Hong Kong Ambassadors.
28
The Director meets with the Vice-minister of Ministry of Health, Professor Wang Longde, and exchanges views on the management of food and public health matters.
October
2
The Department supports the Green Power and over 2 000 volunteers to clean the Repulse Bay in support of the 9th Clean Up the World in Hong Kong.
10
In support of the Chief Executive's Policy Address 2001, the Department undertakes to create 2 600 jobs in the cleansing field so as to enhance the overall cleanliness of the city and to create new job opportunities.
18
The Department announces a further extension of rental freeze for all public markets to the end of 2002.
November
1
The Food Research Laboratory Section, housed in the Public Health Laboratory Centre, is set up. Installation and commissioning of a range of state-of-the-art equipment for chemical analysis of food is underway. The Laboratory will conduct studies on the contents of nutrients in locally available food items and provide support to dietary exposure studies and risk assessment projects.
9
The Department releases test results on samples of hairy crabs taken from markets. The results do not reveal the presence of antibiotics. The move is in response to a media report that samples of hairy crabs taken from retail shops and analysed by a private laboratory were found to contain antibiotics.
22
The Department announces the extension of the freeze on all fees and charges for the Department's services (including those for various types of hawker licences) to the end of 2002.
28
The Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, visits Tsuen Wan to see the work of cleansing workers in the newly created jobs, including washing backlanes, removal of gum dirt on pavements and illegal bills.
December
15
The Department stages an exhibition at the 36th Hong Kong Products Expo.
16
In support of the Government's Waste Reduction Framework Plan, the Department expands the recyclable waste collection service in public places and increases the collection points from 193 to 993.
17
The Department launches a new phase of publicity for the Clean Hong Kong Programme to showcase the visible improvement.
18
The Department releases findings of a risk assessment of lap mei, which examined the risks associated with the use of preservatives and colouring matters.
31
To strengthen the control of vet drugs and agricultural chemical residues in food, the first phase of the Harmful Substances in Food (Amendment) Regulation 2001, Cap. 132, comes into operation. Under the newly amended regulation, the presence of seven chemicals will be prohibited and the presence of 37 other chemicals in food will be restricted within the stipulated maximum residual levels. Ten restricted chemicals are included in the first phase of implementation.
Chapter II
Food Safety and Public Health Programme
The Food and Public Health Branch has nine sections responsible for a variety of tasks, including food surveillance and certification; exercising import control and conducting inspections and tests on live food animals; as well as assessing risks from certain categories of food and disseminating food safety information. It also investigates outbreaks of food-borne illness from food premises and stalls, and advises on food standards and the prevention and control of pests.
Safety Control of Imported Food
With most of Hong Kong's food supplies originating from outside the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), import controls are an important part of the Department's work.
The control process, comprising a pre-entry licensing system, verification of health documents, and surveillance at import control points, basically applies to certain categories of food considered high risk, including game, meat, poultry, milk and frozen confections.
Safety control of imported food in 2001
| No. of applications for import licence for frozen/chilled meat and poultry approved | 74 050 |
|---|---|
| No. of applications for import of game, meat and poultry approved | 4 191 |
| No. of applications for import of milk and milk products approved | 160 |
| No. of applications for import of frozen confections approved | 126 |
| No. of vehicles carrying vegetables inspected at Man Kam To Food Control Office | 75 353 |
As part of the day-to-day task of ensuring food safety, close contact is maintained with local consulates, food authorities in the Mainland and overseas, importers, the Customs and Excise Department and other relevant organisations.
Food Surveillance
Daily monitoring, testing and enforcement action are key responsibilities to ensure the safety of food supply in Hong Kong. Food samples are tested at every stage of the supply process: from import and manufacture to the wholesale and retail stages.
During the year, some 57 906 samples of food were tested, representing eight samples for every 1 000 people in Hong Kong - much higher than the international reference standard of three samples per 1 000 people.
Food samples undergo microbiological examination, chemical analysis and radioactivity tests, allowing an assessment as to whether or not they conform to legal standards and labelling requirements.
The Man Kam To Food Laboratory provides expeditious and comprehensive testing services, mainly on fresh produce imported from the Mainland. The testing services can be subdivided into two categories as follows:
- Analysis of pesticide residues in fresh vegetables. Testing parameters include Methamidophos, Isocarbophos, other Organophosphorus pesticides, Pyrethroids and N-Methyl Carbamates.
- Analysis of veterinary drug residues in raw milk. Testing parameters include Chloramphenicol, Tetracyclines and Sulfonamides.
In 2001, the Man Kam To Food Laboratory has successfully developed and validated new testing methods for the determination of two fungicides, namely Carbendazim and Thiabendazole in vegetables; and for the determination of £]-lactams in milk. The scope of sulfonamides that can be monitored in milk has also been increased from six to 14 compounds. To cope with the requirements of the new legislation for the control of veterinary drug residues in food, a series of method development projects in veterinary drug residues analysis are currently underway in the Laboratory.
The data collected through the Food Surveillance Programme serves an additional purpose. It is reviewed and analysed regularly to facilitate topical studies to assess the risk of specific foods and long-term planning of food safety strategies.
Statistics on the Food Surveillance Programme in 2001
A. Testing of food samples
| Testing | Number | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical (including toxicity) | ||
| Test retdorts received | 35 801 | |
| Satisfactory | 35 590 | 99.4% |
| Microbiological | ||
| Test reports received | 19 045 | |
| Satisfactory | 18 583 | 97.6% |
| Radioactivity | ||
| Test reports received | 1 840 | |
| Satisfactory | 1 840 | 100% |
B. Enforcement statistics concerning food labelling
| No. of food labels inspected | 58 230 |
|---|---|
| No. of verbal and written warnings issued | 1 294 |
| No. of prosecutions taken out | 110 |
Risk Assessment
Determining the potential risks from food-related hazards and formulating risk management options play an important role in safeguarding public health. Scientific evidence derived from surveys and researches provides necessary information for science-based risk assessment.
Studies and Projects
As part of its risk assessment work, the Department conducts projects which involve a comprehensive review and analysis of food-related hazards based on available data, local food preparation practices and surveillance findings.
Projects completed during the year were: "Aflatoxins in Food", "Microbiological Risk Assessment of Siu Mei and Lo Mei", "Microbiological Quality of Ice Cream" and "Preservatives and Colouring Matters in Chinese Preserved Meat".
In addition, a series of papers called "Risk-in-brief" is produced, providing the public with results of risk assessment on topical food safety hazards. Several issues were released in 2001, and were posted on the Department's web site. They included "Mad Cow Disease", "Dioxins in Food", and "Sweeteners in Food".
Food safety incidents, including recalls, originating from outside Hong Kong are also assessed and monitored. The potential risks to the local population are assessed and action taken where necessary. Some 90 cases were assessed in 2001.
As part of the Department's efforts to promote nutrient information to the general public and to facilitate them to make healthy food choices, the Department has set up an information system on nutritional values of various food items at the Department's web site (http://fehd-niis.gov.hk) for their reference. The system, which is known as "Nutrient Information Inquiry System", captures nutrient information of some 1 000 commonly consumed food items that are of relevance and interest to the local community.
Food Standards
Setting of food standards is an integral part of risk management in food safety. In setting new food standards, scientific evaluations performed by internationally recognised authorities, such as the Joint Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO)/World Health Organisation (WHO) Expert Committee on Food Additives, and the Joint FAO/WHO Meeting on Pesticide Residues serve as the primary references.
Complementing these initiatives are a risk assessment study assessing the dietary exposure of secondary school students to dioxins and heavy metals in their diet and the new Food Research Laboratory which commissioned service in December 2001. The new laboratory provides support to research and development with laboratory data output for the assessment of dietary exposure to chemical hazards. It also determines nutritional composition of food.
The Department has drawn up a set of guidelines on the microbiological quality of ready-to-eat food. The guidelines are used by the authority in monitoring food safety and can be used by the food trade as a reference material in devising measures to improve their food safety practices.
Genetically Modified Food
Genetically modified (GM) food is a new subject to many people. To provide the public and trade with the most updated information on this rapidly developing subject, a Genetically Modified Food Section comprising a multi-disciplinary team of medical and scientific staff was established in June 2001. Educational messages were conveyed to the target audience in understandable language through a multitude of channels including seminars, roving exhibitions, pamphlets, and the Department's web site, aiming to enhance public understanding of GM food.
Besides public education, the Section examines the science behind biotechnology and studies regulatory measures for GM food to safeguard public health.
In collaboration with the Government Laboratory, the Department has been examining the methodology and technology for testing GM ingredients in food, including testing standards and protocols.
Risk Communication
Risk communication is an integral part, and arguably the most important component, of the food safety regulatory system.
As such, it aims to provide the trade and consumers with clear perception of various kinds of risks and encourage them to play their parts in enhancing food safety. It also facilitates a positive and timely response to potential safety hazards.
The Risk Communication Section handles enquiries from the public on food safety issues and publicises results of food surveillance and risk assessment studies through the media, the "Food Safety Express" web page, and the quarterly publication of Food Safety Bulletins (Consumer and Trade Editions). In addition, resource materials including pamphlets, posters and videos on various topics of food and public health are produced.
As part of a major initiative -- "Public Education and Consultation Programme on Genetically Modified Food", a public forum and a series of roving exhibitions were organised to promote fruitful discussion in the community about the consultation document on labelling of GM food released in February 2001. All sectors of the community, including the medical profession, academic bodies, local consulates, legislative/district councils, government sector, food trade, pressure groups, media and the general public, actively participated in the Programme.
The Risk Communication Section also plays an important role in preventing vector-borne diseases. During the year, an Anti-mosquito Campaign carrying the theme of "Let's Remove Stagnant Water Eliminate Mosquitoes for Healthy Living" was successfully held in collaboration with other government departments. The Campaign was launched from April to November in two phases and targeted mainly at housing estates, construction sites, public/private schools and hospitals. Supported by talks, exhibitions and other educational materials, the Campaign has enhanced public awareness of the importance of mosquito control.
Summary of risk communication activities in 2001
| Item | 2000 | 2001 |
|---|---|---|
| No. of educational / publicity programmes organised | 10 | 10 |
| No. of resource materials (printed materials, audio-visual materials) produced | 50 | 65 |
| Total no. of attendance at public education / communication activities | 69 231 | 99 229 |
| No. of public enquiries handled | 865 | 483 |
| No. of food licensees attending HACCP seminars | 1 121 | 3 156 |
HACCP-based Food Safety Plan
In 2001, the Department continued her effort in actively promoting the adoption of Food Safety Plan (FSP). FSP is a proactive food safety assurance model based on the principle of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP).
The "Manage Risk for Food Safety" food hygiene campaign held from June to October introduced the concept of food risk and advocated FSP for risk management in food preparation to the food trade and the general public. The Department also devised a special FSP promotion programme for the siu mei and lo mei sector, a high-risk food business targeted this year. Both managerial and operational staff of the sector were invited to participate actively in workshops and seminars. A total of 30 seminars and workshops were organised for the food trade, teachers and members of the general public. Roving exhibitions were also mounted at various locations throughout the HKSAR.
Management of Food Incidents
Staffed by doctors and nurses, the Food Incidents and Response Management Section investigates food incidents, including food poisoning outbreaks related to food premises and carries out necessary follow-up actions. To prevent future occurrences, emphasis is placed on food, personal and environmental hygiene health education for food handlers.
Food incident data are collated and analysed to draw up targeted food safety education programmes for the trade and general public. The number of investigations carried out by the Section in relation to food-borne diseases in 2001 was 699. Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella have been identified as the most common causative agents for food poisoning outbreaks related to food premises.
Safety Control of Live Food Animals
The Veterinary Public Health Section (VPHS) is mainly responsible for import control and conducting surveillance progammes on those live food animals with public health significance. Since the health status of food animals may have direct impact on public health, the task of VPHS is substantial.
To implement the concept of "feed to table", veterinary staff pay visits to registered livestock farms in the Mainland to ensure that good husbandry practices are in place. In 2001, 33 million live chickens, ducks, geese and other poultry were imported into Hong Kong. Staff of VPHS performed quarantine and inspection on these animals at various entry points.
No. of imported food poultry inspected and blood samples tested in 2001
| Type of poultry | No. of poultry imported | No. of blood samples tested | No. of animal health certificates verified |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chickens and other poultry | 33 205 775 | 229 108 | 15 760 |
| Waterfowl
(Ducks & Geese) |
221 875 | 6 420 | 446 |
No. of imported food animals inspected in 2001
| Type of animal | No. of animals inspected | No. of animal health certificates verified |
|---|---|---|
| Pigs | 1 842 155 | 29 034 |
| Cattle | 50 468 | 3 710 |
| Goats | 4 262 | 42 |
No. of pig urine samples collected for testing of beta-agonists in 2001
| No. of pig urine samples taken for testing of beta-agonists | 85 318 |
|---|
Hong Kong had a second highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreak in May 2001. To better prevent further attacks, the Department has put in place a monthly "rest day" programme in order to ensure thorough cleansing and disinfection of poultry retail outlets.
In 2001, the Public Health (Animals and Birds) (Chemical Residues) Regulation (Cap. 139) was introduced to enhance effectiveness in the control of use of veterinary chemicals in food animals. The new regulation prohibits the use of certain chemicals including clenbuterol and restricts the residue levels of a number of antibiotics in food animals. To facilitate implementation, every consignment of imported food animals must be accompanied by an official animal health certificate from a competent veterinary authority and with identification marks so as to enable tracing back.
Besides, 455 samples of coral fish were collected from retail and wholesale markets for ciguatera analysis. Information regarding ciguatera outbreaks and new harvesting zones was sent to importers and fishermen advising them of fishing areas and species which warranted special attention. Regular contacts are maintained with the trade to facilitate the tracing of coral fish consignments whenever necessary.
As for the export of animal products, 61 veterinary health certificates were issued. The total value of such products amount to HK$36 million for frozen dim sum, chicken powder and moon cakes to European Union countries, Australia, Canada, and the United States.
Pest Control
The Department is the Government's advisor on pest control. In the control of pests of public health importance, the Department adopts an integrated approach, putting equal emphasis on effective use of pesticides and continuous improvement of environmental hygiene. As a centre of expertise on pest control matters, the Department regularly updates its control methodologies and technologies, making reference to the WHO's latest recommendations. The Department works in close partnership with the trade and provides them with professional support and advice.
Management of Vector-borne Disease
Working closely with the Department of Health and Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation, the Department serves as an executive arm in the prevention and control of vector-borne diseases.
Upon notification of vector-borne disease, investigation is initiated immediately, followed by appropriate vector control measures.
Control Programmes
Vector-borne diseases including malaria, dengue fever, plague, urban typhus and hantaan disease continue to pose threats to Hong Kong. Of particular concern in 2001 was the threat of dengue fever.
Anti-mosquito Campaign
The HKSAR was put on the alert, with threats of dengue fever being imported from neighbouring areas. With the launch of the Anti-mosquito Campaign 2001, conducted in two phases, the population of Aedes albopictus, a prevalent local vector able to transmit dengue fever, was markedly reduced. However, the community need to remain vigilant, as Hong Kong is vulnerable to the spread of dengue fever. The Department will continue placing emphasis on eliminating breeding places for mosquitoes, particularly containers disposed of improperly. For those who allow mosquitoes to breed in their premises, legal action will be taken.
Mosquito control work
| No. of inspections made | No. of mosquito breeding places found | No. of warning letters issued | No. of summonses taken out |
|---|---|---|---|
| 87 636 | 26 655 | 457 | 351 |
In addition, a control programme has been put in place against malaria transmissible mosquitoes, covering a total of 647 streams. In line with the Government's policy, malaria prevention work on some streams were contracted out in late 2001 for better use of resources.
Anti-rodent Campaign
The Department continued its efforts in rodent control and suppressing rodent activities in market buildings and construction sites. Promoted through various communication channels including theme talks and exhibitions, the campaign had received substantial media and public attention. A total of 10 834 rodents were collected during the Reinforcement and Enhancement Phases of the Anti-rodent Campaign 2000-01 mounted in the year. On a regular basis, inspections and disinfestation operations are carried out to contain rodent problems. During the year, the Department laid poison baits at 58 724 points and 3 247 traps, disposing of 48 944 rodents.
Other Control Programmes
Apart from mosquitoes and rats, the Department also provides disinfestation services to control other pests that can spread diseases such as flies, fleas, mites, cockroaches and ticks. Staff are deployed to patrol refuse collection points, rear lanes and other trouble spots to spray insecticides and remove items attracting flies. The Department also provides services on the knocking down of wasps upon the receipt of complaints.
Disinfestations of arthropod pests
| Arthropod pest | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flies | Fleas | Wasps | Mites | Biting midges | Cockroaches | Others | |
| No. of disinfestation operations by using pesticide | 59 638 | 2 421 | 5 142 | 0 | 115 | 259 | 154 |
Risk Assessment and Surveillance
Risk assessment programmes have been put in place to monitor rodent population in wharves and godowns; and to monitor infestation of dengue and malaria transmissible mosquitoes throughout the HKSAR.
Waterfront plague surveillance
| Rat-flea Index | No. of rodents collected | No. of surveys at wharves and godowns | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stonecutters Island Public Cargo Working Area | Wan Chai Public Cargo Working Area | Stonecutters Island Public Cargo Working Area | Wan Chai Public Cargo Working Area | |
| 1.44 | 1.62 | 34 | 49 | 690 |
To assess the risk of plague transmission, studies have been carried out to assess the rat-flea situation. During the year, wholesale markets were selected for study.
Rat-flea survey at wholesale markets
| No. of wholesale markets surveyed | Rat-flea Index | No. of rodents collected |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 0.31 | 22 |
Remarks: It has been reported from the World Health Organisation that Rat-flea Index greater than 1 represents a potentially dangerous situation with respect to increase plague risk for human.
Hong Kong is renowned for its vibrant international airport. To ensure that the airport is free from dengue fever and plague vectors, and in accordance with international health regulations, monitoring stations have been set up in the airport at Chek Lap Kok. Monitoring figures in 2001 demonstrated the effective control of these vectors.
Airport disease vectors surveillance
| Rat-flea Index | No. of rodents collected | No. of mosquito surveys | No. of advisory letters issued |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.00 | 1 | 735 | 95 |
Chapter III
Regulator and Facilitator of the Food Trade
The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department is the licensing authority of food businesses and certain trades in the HKSAR.
Licensing
Restaurants, food factories, fresh provision shops, bakeries, factory canteens, siu mei and lo mei shops, frozen confection factories, milk factories and cold stores, and so on are all required to obtain licences from the Department. It also issues permits for the sale of restricted foods such as frozen confections, milk, non-bottled drinks, Chinese herb tea, cut fruit, sushi and sashimi, oysters and meat to be eaten raw, and food sold from vending machines.
Licences are only issued to food premises if they conform to the prescribed safety and hygiene standards laid down by law.
Trade licences are required for operating places of public entertainment, such as theatres, cinemas and entertainment machine centres, as well as commercial bathhouses, private swimming pools, funeral parlours, undertakers, slaughterhouses and offensive trades.
Provisional Licence
To facilitate the early set up of food business, we operate a provisional licensing system. Under this system, the Department issues a provisional food business licence to premises which have satisfied all essential health, building and fire safety requirements. A provisional licence is valid for six months, during which the licensee completes all outstanding requirements for the issue of a full licence.
In 2001, 1 974 applications for provisional food business licences were received, and 1 501 were issued. A streamlined procedure has been introduced since April 2000, whereby a case manager co-ordinates the licensing process and new performance pledges with reduced completion time have been set. In 2000 a Restaurant Licensing Resource Centre was also opened to assist applicants. A more business-friendly licensing service was commissioned in January 2001 when a new shroff office was set up to issue provisional licences over the counter. The issuing time for provisional licences has since been reduced from seven working days to within one hour. On filing report of compliance and production of the requisite certificates of compliance, a licence applicant may obtain a provisional licence over the counter from the Provisional Food Business Licences Issue Office.
Licences Processed and Issued
During the year, the Department received and processed 2 302 applications for food business licences (including 1 046 for restaurant licences), 1 589 applications for restricted food permits, 925 applications for places of public entertainment licences, and 51 applications for other trade licences. Licence applications are handled by three licensing offices located on Hong Kong Island, in Kowloon and in the New Territories.
The Department also licensed five cinemas, seven entertainment machine centres, seven commercial bathhouses, 39 private swimming pools and four undertakers.
Liquor Licensing
To sell liquor, a licence is required from the Liquor Licensing Board (the Board), an independent statutory body established on January 1, 2000.
Staff from the Department provide executive and secretarial support to the Board, which normally meets twice every two weeks to deal with contested cases. The Board regularly reviews the policy governing the issue of licences and the control of licensed premises in exercise of its powers under the law.
The Board has delegated its power of approving non-contested applications for new issues, renewals, transfers and amendments to the Director, Deputy Director (Environmental Hygiene), Assistant Directors (Operations) of the Department and the Secretary of the Board.
During the year, a total of 658 applications for liquor and club liquor licences were received and 710 new licences were granted. A total of 4 567 liquor and club liquor licences were renewed.
The Board regularly arranges seminars on liquor licensing with a view to enhancing the knowledge of applicants and licensees of their legal liabilities and the responsibilities for the proper management of their premises. In 2001, 12 such sessions were organised for 464 liquor licence applicants and licensees.
Inspections
To ensure that licensed food premises comply with the requirements, conditions and hygiene standards prescribed under the law, health inspectors perform regular inspections and checks. In addition to routine inspections, surprise inspections and formal inspections are conducted. Premises issued with trade licences, such as cinemas, commercial bathhouses and private swimming pools, are also regularly checked.
Under the current Selective Inspection System, licensed food premises are inspected at different frequencies according to their past hygiene record. The system aims to direct inspection resources towards those premises with lower hygiene standards. The Department has reviewed the system and considered that there is room for strengthening the food safety aspects in inspections and providing more health education to restaurateurs. In this regard, a consultation paper was published in January for public consultation. The paper proposes to categorise food establishments into different risk groups of varying inspection frequencies and to conduct inspections on the basis of a scoring system to enhance fairness and transparency. The consultation ended on July 31, with a total of 75 submissions received. The current inspection system will be reviewed in the light of the views collected.
Law Enforcement
Food business operators who breach the public health law face prosecution. They will face the risk of having their licences suspended or cancelled under a Demerit Points System if they continue to violate the law. The Department also cracks down on unlicensed food businesses by taking out prosecutions and, for persistent offenders, by summary arrest and applying for closure of their premises.
To more effectively tackle unlicensed and unhygienic food businesses, the Department has sought the support of the Legislature for legislative amendments to provide for a quick and effective mechanism to close premises where unlicensed food business is conducted or where an immediate health hazard is posed to the public.
Statistics on enforcement actions against licensed and unlicensed food premises in 2001
| Licensed food premises | |
|---|---|
| No. of licensed food premises | 17 654 |
| No. of inspections | 403 408 |
| No. of prosecutions | 4 411 |
| No. of suspension of licence under Demerit Points System | 288 |
| No. of cancellation of licence under Demerit Points System | 2 |
| Unlicensed food premises | |
| No. of unlicensed food premises under application for licence | 1 654 |
| No. of unlicensed food premises not under application for licence | 352 |
| No. of prosecutions | 2 818 |
| Summary arrests - | |
| No. of raids carried out | 579 |
| No. of persons arrested | 260 |
| No. of Prohibition Orders granted during the period | 303 |
| No. of Closure Orders granted during the period | 0 |
The Department also mounted 36 operations against unlicensed meat roasting factories in 2001, resulting in 22 persons arrested, 16 076 kilograms of roasted meat and 10 577 kilograms of raw meat seized.
Slaughterhouses
In Hong Kong, fresh meat (i.e. beef, pork and mutton) is supplied by three privately operated slaughterhouses. They are located in Sheung Shui, Tsuen Wan and on Cheung Chau. The Department is tasked with monitoring and overseeing the smooth operation of the licensed slaughterhouses and combating illegal slaughtering activities.
To fulfil the Department's role in protecting public health, all animals admitted to licensed slaughterhouses for slaughtering are subject to both ante-mortem and post-mortem inspections. This is to ensure meat is fit for human consumption before release for sale at markets. Meanwhile, staff mounted 153 operations in the year on illegal slaughterhouses, resulting in 13 prosecutions and the seizure of 13 185 kilograms of pork, pig carcasses and live pigs. They also conducted 11 702 surprise visits to fresh provision shops and meat stalls to check if meat from unapproved sources was being sold. Their action resulted in three prosecutions.
The Department also ensures that enclosed type vehicles with air-conditioning device are used for transporting meat to retail outlets to enhance meat hygiene.
Chapter IV
Environmental Hygiene
Maintaining a clean and hygienic living environment for the people of Hong Kong is one of the Department's key responsibilities. The range of services it provides in this respect covers street cleansing, waste collection, the provision of toilets, public markets and crematoria, and hawker management.
Street Cleansing
A departmental workforce of about 5 300 staff takes up the daily task of sweeping and washing streets, collecting waste and managing public toilets, public bathhouses and waste collection points.
Street sweeping is an essential part of keeping the city clean. Sweepers can be seen working from daybreak until late evening. The frequency of sweeping depends on the need in a particular area, and ranges from once a day to eight times a day round the clock. In the main commercial and tourist areas, streets are swept about four to eight times a day.
A series of new cleansing initiatives addressing district concerns have been implemented since November 2001 which include provision of static cleaners at busy spots for the instantaneous removal of litter on streets, removal of illegal bills or posters, and roving cleansing teams for clearing hygiene blackspots.
Complementing manual sweeping are 30 mechanical sweepers used to cleanse highways, flyovers, central dividers and other high-use traffic areas. Special cleansing squads are deployed on a need basis to hygiene blackspots. The squads have lorries, pick-up vans and street-washing vehicles at their disposal and are actively involved in major operations to remove large abandoned articles and bulky items that cannot be handled by street sweepers. They also perform urgent clearances in the event of a traffic accident or natural disaster.
To keep pavements, lanes, hawker areas and on-street refuse collection points clean, street washing is performed by departmental staff. A total of 65 street washing vehicles operate day and night with frequency varies from daily for busy thoroughfares and markets and hawker areas to as necessary for village roads. For trunk roads with very heavy traffic flows, street flushing is achieved by means of spraying pressurised water on to surface channels and central dividers.
Roadside gullies, meanwhile, are cleared manually every two weeks. Larvicidal oil is added afterwards as a precaution against mosquito breeding. Gully traps on highways and flyovers are cleared once every six weeks with specialised equipment. The Department currently has 27 mechanical gully emptiers, and they are normally employed after midnight when traffic is light.
Refuse Collection
Litter containers provided by the Department can be found at almost every bus stop, major road junction, ferry concourse, transport interchange and Mass Transit Railway/Kowloon Canton Railway exit in Hong Kong. They are emptied at frequency commensurate with usage. They range from four to eight times a day. In total, there are more than 16 000 litter containers, along with about 420 dog latrines and 434 dog excreta collection bins for the convenience of dog owners.
To encourage feedback on the performance of our staff and our contractors and to help determine the frequency of bin emptying, a hotline number 2868 0000 is printed on all new litter containers.
Once street waste and waste from households has been collected it is taken to any of the network of 2 866 refuse collection points (RCPs). Different types of RCPs are provided to meet local needs and site constraints. They include 158 permanent off-street RCPs, 97 temporary RCPs, 810 village-type RCPs, and 1 801 bin sites. To further improve waste collection services, the Department plans to build more off-street RCPs equipped with features to minimise any environmental nuisance to nearby residents. New RCPs, which are designed to be visually attractive as well as odourless, are equipped with water scrubber systems, vehicle exhaust extraction systems and high pressure water jet cleaners.
Household waste is collected at least once a day at public RCPs, which generally operate from 7 am to 3.30 pm but can stay open up to 11.30 pm in busy areas. Waste collected at RCPs is removed by a fleet of 387 refuse collection vehicles. About 5 964 tonnes of household waste are collected daily - 1 292 tonnes from Hong Kong Island, 1 889 tonnes from Kowloon, and 2 783 tonnes from the New Territories and outlying islands. Waste is then taken to refuse transfer stations or landfills managed by the Environmental Protection Department for disposal.
Waste Reduction
In support of the Government's Waste Reduction Framework Plan 1998-2007, the Department has provided 993 recycling points in public places and government venues for the collection of waste paper, aluminium cans and plastic bottles. Space will be reserved in new RCPs to set up a Material Recovery Point for the separate collection and storage of recyclable materials.
The support of the public for this initiative is evidenced by the rise in the number of recyclables collected. During the year, the average weight of recyclable materials collected per month was 6 737 kilograms of waste paper, 636 kilograms of aluminium cans and 1 787 kilograms of plastic bottles.
In response to the Government's initiative on waste reduction and environmental protection, the Department is now exploring the feasibility of using retread tyres for its vehicle fleet. The plan not only aims to reduce the number of used tyres and the maintenance cost of vehicles but also achieves the purpose of waste reduction. In the initial stage, only refuse collection vehicles are selected for trial. If successful, the arrangement will be extended to other types of vehicles.
Public Toilets and Bathhouses
The Department has embarked on a refurbishment programme to upgrade old public toilets. During the year, facilities at 64 toilets (38 in the urban area and 26 in the New Territories) were upgraded under the scheme. The Department remains committed to seeing further improvements in hygiene, safety and comfort. A free toilet paper scheme will be expanded from the present 256 conveniences to all toilets with attendants.
Public toilets are primarily provided at ferry concourses, bus termini, picnic areas, tourist spots and other busy areas. Altogether, 292 public toilets are managed by the Department - 99 on Hong Kong Island, 67 in Kowloon, and 126 in the New Territories and on outlying islands. In addition, there are 583 aqua privies in the New Territories and on outlying islands.
Public bathhouses, meanwhile, are provided in some older districts where poor housing accommodation still exists. There are 37 public bathhouses - 11 on Hong Kong Island, 15 in Kowloon and 11 in the New Territories and on outlying islands.
Sanitary Nuisances
The Department deals with environmental nuisances such as dripping air-conditioners, accumulation of refuse, and defective plumbing and consequential water seepage in buildings with the issue of advisory letters and statutory Nuisance Notices.
Litter Offences
All officers of the Health Inspectorate, Supervisory and Hawker Control Grades of the Department are empowered to issue summonses against litter offenders. Apart from the day-to-day enforcement action, anti-littering blitz operations are also conducted. During the year, a total of 28 720 summonses were issued, with offenders fined a total of $15.67 million. The average fine imposed by the Court was $551. Another 14 172 verbal warnings were administered to litter offenders.
The Legislative Council passed the Fixed Penalty (Public Cleanliness Offences) Bill on July 12, 2001. The new law covers offences of littering, spitting, unauthorised display of bills and posters as well as dog fouling in public places. Anyone who commits the offences will be liable for a fixed penalty of $600. The Department and other departments concerned have been preparing for the implementation of the fixed penalty system in 2002, including training front-line staff, developing computer system, and launching publicity programmes.
Hawker Management
As part of the Department's policy of reducing street hawking, no new licences are issued and eligible licensed hawkers are being relocated into public markets and cooked food centres/markets. In addition, incentives are offered to encourage hawkers either to give up their licences or to move into the above venues. As a result of these measures, the number of licensed hawkers - both fixed-pitch and itinerant - fell to 8 874 by the end of 2001.
During the year, 43 itinerant hawkers voluntarily surrendered their licences in return for either $30,000 ex-gratia payment or operating a vacant fixed pitch or a market stall at a concessionary rent. Meanwhile, 10 cooked food stall licensees voluntarily surrendered their licences for $60,000 ex-gratia payment as part of an on-going buy-back scheme.
The management and control of hawkers rests in the hands of a trained staff force of about 2 600, who are assigned to 194 hawker control teams. Support facilities include control centres and seized goods stores. When necessary, hawker-handling centres are set up in police stations to facilitate charging formalities of arrested hawkers.
Environmental hygiene staff inspect fixed pitches regularly to ensure that the licensing conditions and relevant legislative provisions are observed. They also take necessary management actions on itinerant hawkers whenever they are found plying their trade in streets. Where necessary, they take enforcement action to deter irregularities; such action resulted in 3 012 convictions in 2001.
In December, the Department has revised the enforcement strategies against hawking activities by taking a more tolerant approach to hawkers in view of the prevailing economic condition.
Public Markets and Cooked Food Centres/Markets
The provision of public markets and cooked food centres/markets plays an important part in improving the overall environment in Hong Kong. There are 81 public markets, with 14 778 stalls offering commodities ranging from fresh food to household items, and 1 026 stalls in 37 cooked food centres and 24 free-standing cooked food markets. One new market in Chai Wan was opened in April, with another four under planning or construction.
The public markets and cooked food centres/markets will, as far as practicable, be air-conditioned to provide a clean and pleasant trading environment.
All stalls are let through auction, with stallholders entering into a tenancy agreement. Under the existing policy, the majority of stallholders are enjoying a reduction in rent. The legacy of different regional practices is now being reviewed, with a view to creating a streamlined, common set of policies for markets and cooked food centres/markets.
Market staff make daily checks to ensure stallholders observe the relevant provisions in their tenancy agreements and the law. Health inspectorate officers also conduct regular inspections to meat, poultry, fish and cooked food stalls to ensure that the food is clean and wholesome through observance of relevant codes of hygiene practices and legislation. Whenever conditions warrant, they take enforcement action for contravention of relevant legislation. In 2001 there were 2 350 convictions.
Cemeteries and Crematoria
The Department provides efficient and dignified cremation or burial services through six crematoria and 11 public cemeteries. It also manages and monitors 28 private cemeteries. It is the Government's policy to promote cremation over burial, and during the year more than 81 per cent of all cadavers - 26 937 - were cremated. Some 137 939 niches are provided at reasonable prices for the storage of ashes in eight Gardens of Remembrance.
After six years, human remains buried in public cemeteries have to be exhumed, to be either cremated or reburied in an urn cemetery. Three service halls in the Hung Hom Public Funeral Parlour are provided at no charge for bereaved families as "farewell pavilions". Owing to the low utilisation rate of the Hung Hom Public Funeral Parlour and the high demand of funeral services, the Department will contract out the funeral services of Hung Hom Public Funeral Parlour in early 2002.
In view of the ageing population and increasing demand for cremation services, plans are in hand to upgrade cremation facilities.
New Facilities
Funds have been secured for reprovisioning four existing cremators at the Kwai Chung Crematorium. The new facilities will be commissioned in 2002. Whenever practicable, environmentally friendly facilities with increased capacity and speed for cremation will be introduced to enhance efficiency and minimise environmental nuisances. In this connection, the Department is actively planning for the replacement of cremators at the Fu Shan Crematorium and the Diamond Hill Crematorium.
There is also a phased programme in place to upgrade service halls of crematoria. Refurbishment of the christian service halls in the Cape Collinson Crematorium will commence soon.
For public convenience, booking of cremation sessions at six public crematoria at Cape Collinson, Diamond Hill, Fu Shan, Wo Hop Shek, Kwai Chung and Cheung Chau can be made in person at Wu Chung House in Wan Chai and Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices in Kowloon.
Chapter V
Administration and Development
The Administration and Development Branch provides various back-up and support services to the entire Department. These include, inter alia, staff management and development, financial management, information technology, planning of capital works projects and public education on environmental hygiene and food safety.
Grade Management
There are three major departmental grades in the Department, viz. the Health Inspector Grade, the Hawker Control Officer Grade and the Foreman Grade. There are two Grade Managers, one for the Health Inspector and the other for the Hawker Control Officer and the Foreman Grades. The Grade Managers are responsible for human resource management matters such as manpower planning, career development, postings, promotions and training.
The Health Inspector Grade comprises six ranks viz. Senior Superintendent, Superintendent, Chief Health Inspector, Senior Health Inspector, Health Inspector I/II and Student Health Inspector. They are responsible for various environmental hygiene and food safety functions, for example, district hygiene, licensing, prosecution, meat inspection, cleansing service, pest control, hawker control, market management, management of cemeteries and crematoria, food control and health education, and so on.
The Hawker Control Officer Grade comprises five ranks viz. Principal Hawker Control Officer, Chief Hawker Control Officer, Senior Hawker Control Officer, Hawker Control Officer and Assistant Hawker Control Officer. They are responsible for controlling and containing on-street hawking activities, managing hawker permitted places and taking law enforcement action against illegal hawking activities.
The Foreman Grade comprises four ranks viz. Senior Overseer, Overseer, Senior Foreman and Foreman. They are mainly responsible for supervising the work of minor staff in market management, street cleansing, waste collection, pest control, cemeteries and crematoria services as well as monitoring the performance of cleansing contractors. They are also empowered to take legal action against litter offenders.
Training
Vocational and general training is provided to staff to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to carry out their duties, and to help them gain the pre-requisite qualifications for promotion and to enhance professionalism.
Staff are provided with in-house programmes, locally-commissioned public programmes and overseas programmes, with an evaluation system in place to measure the effectiveness of each programme.
In-house programmes are organised to enhance officers' functional and core competence. They are either designed, administered, conducted and evaluated by staff of the Training Section or co-ordinated by the Training Section and conducted by the Civil Service Training and Development Institute.
Besides, local institutes help administer and conduct locally-commissioned and public programmes. Some of these programmes lead to the award of qualifications which are pre-requisites to appointment, confirmation or promotion. Also overseas programmes are organised to enhance skills and knowledge in functional competence, when expertise in organising such programmes is not available in local institutes.
Management Services
Management studies and statistical surveys help facilitate the Department in providing efficient and effective public services, in monitoring the standard of quality performance, and in formulating policy.
The Management Services, Survey and Statistics Section, comprised of the Management Services Unit and the Survey and Statistics Unit, is responsible for the provision of management consultancy studies and opinion surveys.
Major projects completed during the year by the Management Services Unit included "Comprehensive Review of Hawker Control Operations", "Foreman Grade Review", "Review of Returns of Environmental Hygiene Branch" and "Review of the Frequency of Mechanised Gully Cleansing Service".
At the same time, new management consultancy studies started in the year include "Review of Manual Street Sweeping (Town Beat) Services", "Review of Street Washing Services", "Review of Health Inspector Grade", "Staffing Review of Ganger Grade", "Review of Pest Control Operations", "Review of Mechanised Street Sweeping Service" and "Review of Mechanised Gully Cleansing Service".
Besides, it assists clients in the Department in implementing recommendations in various review reports, maintains and upgrades the bar-coding file management system to enhance office efficiency, and renders contribution to departmental form design.
The Survey and Statistics Unit completed a number of surveys in 2001 such as "Survey on Food Safety", "Clean Hong Kong Survey", "Survey on Demolition of Yee Kuk Street Public Toilet", "Study on Market Facilities in Central", and "Survey on FEHD Public Toilets".
There are also new surveys being carried out or planned in the year, including "Survey on New Trade Types for Vacant Stalls in Kowloon City Market", "Survey on the Demand on Market Facilities in Siu Sai Wan and Tung Chau Street Area", "Survey on Consumer Food Purchasing Habits", "Longitudinal Survey on Clean Hong Kong Programme (Phase 1 and Phase 2)" and "Study on Meat Consumption in Hong Kong".
Moreover, it compiles an annual statistical report for the Department and offers technical advice to clients of the Department on how to undertake statistical surveys and analyse the data collected.
Financial Management
All matters relating to expenditure and procurement, including payment processing, financial advice and monitoring, are handled by the Finance and Supplies Division.
In 2001, the Department spent $4,187 million. Of this, $3,083 million was spent on salaries and allowances, $1,041 million on general departmental expenses and $63 million on capital expenditure.
By activities, the majority of the expenditure ($2,003 million) was spent on environmental hygiene. This was followed by $1,350 million for market management and hawker control, $335 million for food safety and public health, $289 million for administration and development, $177 million for monitoring the food trade, and $33 million for public education and community involvement.
Expenditure control is exercised through a two-tier budget officer framework. In most cases, tier one budget officers are division heads and tier two budget officers are section heads. At the beginning of each financial year, the Director allocates to tier one budget officers the provision necessary to carry out duties under their purview. Tier one budget officers then sub-allocate their budgets to tier two budget officers serving in the same division.
Expenditure can only be incurred within the limits approved by the Legislative Council. When incurring expenditure, budget officers have to ensure that expenditure is charged against subheads strictly according to their ambits, and that strict economy is exercised.
In 2001, the Department was responsible for government revenue amounting to $695 million. The majority of revenue ($329 million) came from the rents of some 13 000 stalls in markets managed by the Department. This was followed by $234 million from licences and permit fees for food-related businesses. Other sources of revenue included fees for cemeteries and crematoria services ($53 million), fees for meat examination ($32 million) and other miscellaneous services ($47 million).
Information Technology
In the continuing pursuit of excellence in the provision of services, the Department has placed great emphasis on applying information technology (IT) to its internal operations. Today, IT has been employed in most areas of the Department's work, including the management of personnel, finance and inventory, capital projects, transport, markets and hawkers, as well as in training, cemeteries and crematoria services, licensing and prosecution, food information, hotline services, research and analysis, and so on.
The Department fully supports the Government's IT initiatives. Sophisticated technologies (including digital certificates and encryption algorithms) and operation procedures are being used to protect sensitive electronic information. An extensive management system facilitating the optimal use of the Department's software asset, which combines special computer software and tailored policies and procedures, has been set up. E-payment option is already available to facilitate payment of market stall rental. On top of the Department's mature fixed computer network, mobile computing is being introduced to further enhance efficiency in field operations. In the latter half of 2001, a study was mounted to examine the Department's position in e-Government. A number of improvements have been identified for follow up action to be taken, such as to realise potential of IT-enabled business transformation, to consider implementing knowledge management and formal data management framework.
The departmental web site (www.fehd.gov.hk) is enriched and updated continuously. The web pages have been re-structured to facilitate access by people with disabilities. The public may send in enquiries, comments and complaints via the Department's web site; obtain and return the Access to Information request form electronically. To ensure that every enquiry and complaint received from the public is followed up thoroughly and promptly and to monitor relevant statistics, the process is now facilitated by a centralised computer system. The computerised cemeteries and crematoria services now cover burial services, thereby further enhancing the Department's operational efficiency.
In the efforts to keep enhancing the operation through the use of information technology, the Department is currently undertaking several major information technology projects related to the impending enforcement of the Fixed Penalty (Public Cleanliness Offences) Ordinance, the further automation of licensing activities, and market rental collection and control, and so on. The Department will spare no effort to explore using state-of-the-art information technology to improve the quality and efficiency of the services.
Capital Works
In the 2001 Government's Capital Works Resource Allocation Exercise, the five-year allocation on food and environmental hygiene services capital projects is about $3,531 million. Out of the total allocation, about $1,894 million have been earmarked for new projects whilst about $1,637 million are to meet expenditure for projects under construction or projects that have been completed with outstanding accounts.
Markets
A new market, provided within a complex building in Chai Wan, was completed in early 2001. Three markets to be provided in multi-functional complexes in Tai Po, Luen Wo Hui and Tai Kok Tsui are under construction. Construction of a new market in Aldrich Bay Reclamation Area is scheduled to commence in early 2002.
Improvement works to the San Hui Market in Tuen Mun and the Tai Po Temporary Market in Tai Po were completed at the end of 2001. Besides, conversion works to the West Block of the Centre Street Market in Sai Ying Pun were completed while those to the East Block are in progress. The Department is also carrying out improvement works to two markets, namely the Tung Yick Market in Yuen Long and the Yeung Uk Road Market in Tsuen Wan.
Nineteen air-conditioning retro-fitting projects for existing markets and/or cooked food centres are under active planning. District Council consultations will be conducted in early 2002. If everything goes smoothly, retro-fitting works will commence in 2003 at the earliest for completion in 2004 or 2005, depending on the scope and complexity of individual projects.
About 30 market venues are lined up for general improvement works which will be implemented by phases starting from 2003.
Markets/Cooked Food Centres (CFC) under the Air-conditioning Retro-fitting Projects
- Ngau Chi Wan Market and CFC
- Po On Road Market and CFC
- To Kwa Wan Market
- Fa Yuen Street Market and CFC
- Kwun Chung Market and CFC
- Ngau Tau Kok Market and CFC
- Sheung Wan Market
- Yue Wan Market and CFC
- Bowrington Road Market and CFC
- Aberdeen Market and CFC
- Yeung Uk Road Market
- Tsuen Wan Market
- Tsuen King Circuit Market
- Sai Kung Market
- North Kwai Chung Market
- Wing Fong Street Market
- San Hui Market
- Tung Yick Market
- Shek Wu Hui CFC
Refuse Collection Points
As part of the on-going efforts to improve the living environment, the Department continues to replace temporary roadside refuse collection points (RCPs) with off-street facilities in enclosed buildings equipped with modern de-odorising installations. The RCPs at Baptist University Road in Kowloon City and Hing Man Street in Shau Kei Wan came into service in mid-2001. The RCP at Ma Tau Kok Road is under construction while works on an RCP at Hing Shing Road, Kwai Chung Area 10B are scheduled to commence in early 2003. In addition, upgrading works to another 49 RCPs in the New Territories to enhance pollution control are under active planning.
Public Toilets
Public toilets at the Sham Shui Po Ferry Concourse and Sheung Shui Area 7 Public Transport Interchange came into service in mid-2001. A container-type vacuum toilet system was commissioned at the Man Kam To Vehicle Holding Area in early 2001. Improvement works to about 60 public toilets were undertaken or under planning in the year. As part of an on-going refurbishment programme, planning works for another 60 public toilet improvement projects will continue in 2002.
Cemeteries and Crematoria
Construction works for a new urn burial site in the Cheung Chau Public Cemetery and a communal grave for reburial of urns affected in a landslide at the Wo Hop Shek Cemetery are in progress. A burial site at the Wo Hop Shek Cemetery for citizens died or killed whilst performing exceptional acts of bravery is under active planning.
Replacement of two cremators together with the provision of monitoring and telemetry systems at the Cape Collinson Crematorium were completed. Construction works of a new crematorium in Kwai Chung with four cremators to replace the existing one started in early 2001 for completion in late 2002. Other crematorium projects in the pipeline include replacement of existing cremators at the Fu Shan Crematorium and the reprovisioning of the Diamond Hill Crematorium. Projects on extension of the Kwai Chung Crematorium and addition of columbarium in Diamond Hill are under active planning.
Outsourcing of Services
By the end of 2001, 159 contracts at total contract value of $1,364 million were in force for the provision of services by private contractors. The outsourcing policy is aimed at greater cost-effectiveness and efficiency in the delivery of services.
Public market cleansing, street cleansing, waste collection, toilet cleansing, office and complex cleansing, security services, mosquito control in streams, animal carcass collection, cleansing and undergrowth cutting services for cemeteries and columbariums, and collection of recyclables are just examples of services contracted out.
To ensure the quality of the services provided, measurable performance standards are set in all new street and market cleansing contracts. Besides, protective clauses have been included in tenders issued since June to safeguard the rights and benefits of workers. Supervisory checks are conducted to ensure compliance by contractors.
Quality Assurance
Continuous improvement is one of the priority tasks of the Department to ensure provision of quality services to the public.
The Quality Assurance (QA) Section is mainly responsible for conducting day-to-day regulatory inspections on services provided by the Department and where inadequacies in existing operational systems, procedures and guidelines are identified, making recommendations for improvement. The Section also recommends good performers for QA Awards to motivate meritorious and hardworking front-line staff.
The QA Section is also tasked with the investigation into complaints on staff misconduct in an independent, objective and fair manner. The Discipline Section remains the departmental authority on disciplinary matters.
In the light of feedback from front-line staff and with the benefit of working experience, the QA Section constantly refines its operational procedures to further enhance its functional efficiency.
Public Education
Public education plays an important role in almost all the Department's activities and initiatives, forming part of an integrated approach to ensuring food safety and improving environmental hygiene.
To achieve this the Department organises publicity and educational programmes, and arranges exhibitions, outreaching programmes and seminars.
Publicity campaigns launched during the year included a revitalised Clean Hong Kong Programme. Anti-rodent and anti-mosquito campaigns were also mounted to solicit public support and participation in pest control.
In respect of food safety, a comprehensive public education programme began on genetically modified food and the concept of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point was introduced. Food surveillance results were regularly released to help consumers make informed choices when buying food.
While roving exhibitions are often held, the Health Education Exhibition and Resource Centre in the Kowloon Park provides a permanent venue to educate the public on the importance of food safety and environmental hygiene using interactive exhibits and library materials.
During the year, group visits and guided tours were provided to schools, voluntary agencies and the general public. Seminars and activities were conducted regularly, helping the Centre attract 153 417 visitors in 2001.
Health inspectors attached to the Centre also went out into the community, delivering 100 school talks, disseminating messages on personal hygiene, food hygiene and environmental hygiene to 54 kindergartens and 46 primary schools. Audio-visual aids, question-and-answer sessions, demonstrations and games were used to enrich as well as to enliven the learning process.
To cater for the specific needs of the food trade and the general public, three sessions of food hygiene seminars were staged monthly to inculcate members of the food trade with food hygiene knowledge. Seminars on restaurant licensing were also arranged on a bi-monthly basis for those who had applied for food premises licences or were thinking about opening a food business.
Clean Hong Kong Programme
Clean Hong Kong is one of the initiatives stated in the Chief Executive's Policy Address 2000. The objectives are to bring about visible and sustainable improvements on the ground through active cleansing operations, public education and publicity efforts, and to instill a sense of belonging and pride in the community for the clean environment. The three-year programme, commenced in December 2000, is comprised of four key elements:
* Stepped up cleansing and enforcement action against littering and dumping of waste;
* Legislative changes to enhance the effectiveness of existing laws against littering and dumping of waste;
* Joint efforts with District Councils and other local organisations to secure noticeable improvement on the ground; and
* Public education and publicity programmes to reinforce public commitment to a cleaner Hong Kong.
In 2001-02, the Department has been allocated an extra $76 million in support of the Clean Hong Kong Programme. Clean-up operations include cleansing of more than 1 300 locations of "grey area" where the cleansing responsibility has not been designated to a single department in the past, clearing of over 200 hygiene blackspots, improving 30 back lanes in Yau Tsim, Wan Chai and Tsuen Wan, providing full-time toilet attendants to public toilets with daily usage rate of over 300 people and toilet paper to all public toilets, as well as removing illegal bills and posters in public places and enhanced evening street cleansing.
In addition, to maximise the impact of the Government's efforts in keeping Hong Kong clean, a thematic approach has been adopted for inter-departmental clean-up operations during different periods of the year to tie in with seasonal activities, such as harbour, beaches and coastal areas in summer, country parks and recreation areas in autumn as well as housing estates and public places and facilities in winter and spring.
To tackle environmental hygiene problems on a district basis, District Action Plans have been drawn up by the Department in consultation with other departments. All plans have been endorsed by the respective District Councils in April 2001 and are being implemented to achieve a cleaner environment.
Clean Hong Kong Funding Scheme and District Councils Subsidy Scheme
Launched in December 2000, the Clean Hong Kong Funding Scheme aims to encourage various organisations such as schools and local voluntary associations to promote public awareness of keeping a clean environment through participation in Clean Hong Kong activities. The maximum subsidy for each application is $20,000 and a Vetting Committee has been set up to consider applications. Fifty-seven organisations were allocated funds to organise activities and the total amount of fund granted exceeded $0.97 million by the end of 2001.
Each District Council was allocated with $80,000 to hold promotional, educational and actual physical clean-up activities to promote the Clean Hong Kong Programme. All the activities were successfully organised and the response was satisfactory.
New Cleansing Initiatives
In support of the Chief Executive's Policy Address 2001, the Department has planned to create more than 2 600 jobs lasting for over two years in the area of public cleansing and hygiene. The majority of these jobs were created through contracting out the services during the period from October to December 2001.
Chapter VI
Appendices
Liquor Licensing Board
Terms of Reference
The Liquor Licensing Board is constituted for the purpose of issuing liquor licences in accordance with the Dutiable Commodities (Liquor) Regulations (Cap. 109 sub. leg.).
Membership List
Chairman:
Mr. WONG Hon-ching, San Stephen
Vice-chairman:
Mr. LAM Kwok-cheong, JP
Members:
Ms AU Yuk-har, Grace
Mr. CHAN Kwok-ming
Mr. CHENG Wing-kee, Wellington
The Hon CHEUNG Yu-yan, Tommy, JP
Mr. WAN Yuet-kau
Ir. Dr. WONG Chak-yan, Greg, JP
Mr. WONG Chi-keung, Johnny
Mr. WONG King-cheung
Mr. WONG Kwok-hing, MH
Secretary:
SEO(Boards & Committees)
(before September 10, 2001)
CEO(Boards & Committees)
(since September 10, 2001)
District Environmental Hygiene Offices
Hong Kong & Islands
. Central District Office
10/F, Sheung Wan Complex
345 Queen's Road Central
Tel. 2543 4238
. Eastern District Office
3/F, Quarry Bay Complex
38 Quarry Bay Street
Tel. 2563 4340
. Southern District Office
4/F, Aberdeen Complex
203 Aberdeen Main Road
Tel. 2552 8406
. Wan Chai District Office
7/F, Lockhart Road Complex
225 Hennessy Road
Tel. 2507 3364
. Western District Office
10/F, Sheung Wan Complex
345 Queen's Road Central
Tel. 2545 0506
. Islands District Office
6/F, Harbour Building
38 Pier Road, Central
Tel. 2852 3215
Kowloon
. Kowloon City District Office
3/F & 4/F
To Kwa Wan Market and Government Offices
165 Ma Tau Wai Road
Tel. 2711 2493
. Kwun Tong District Office
Level 7, Shui Wo Street Municipal Services Building
9 Shui Wo Street
Tel. 3102 7388
. Mong Kok District Office
6/F & 7/F, Fa Yuen Street Complex
123A Fa Yuen Street
Tel. 2395 2727
. Sham Shui Po District Office
8/F-10/F, Un Chau Street Municipal Services Building
59-63 Un Chau Street
Tel. 2748 6959
. Wong Tai Sin District Office
3/F, Tai Shing Street Market Building
121 Choi Hung Road
Tel. 2328 6531
. Yau Tsim District Office
3/F & 4/F, Kwun Chung Municipal Services Building
17 Bowring Street
Tel. 2302 1299
New Territories
. Sha Tin District Office
Units 1201-1207, 1220 - 1221
12/F, Tower 1, Grand Central Plaza
138 Sha Tin Rural Committee Road
Tel. 2634 0136
. Tai Po District Office
4/F, Tai Po Government Offices Building
1 Ting Kok Road
Tel. 2654 1162
. North District Office
4/F, Shek Wu Hui Municipal Services Building
13 Chi Cheong Road
Tel. 2679 2812
. Sai Kung District Office
5/F, Sai Kung Government Offices Building
34 Chan Man Street
Tel. 2792 3680
. Kwai Tsing District Office
9/F, Kwai Hing Government Offices Building
166-174 Hing Fong Road
Tel. 2420 9204
. Tsuen Wan District Office
3/F, Yeung Uk Road Complex
45 Yeung Uk Road
Tel. 2212 9701
. Tuen Mun District Office
1/F & 3/F, Tuen Mun Government Offices Building
1 Tuen Hi Road
Tel. 2146 8642
. Yuen Long District Office
2/F-5/F, Yuen Long Government Offices and
Tai Kiu Market
2 Kiu Lok Square
Tel. 2475 3433