Queen Mary Hospital elevator failures delay new clinical building use

A major elevator failure at the newly completed clinical building of Queen Mary Hospital has disrupted medical services. Out of 28 elevators, 24 have experienced issues, including damaged components and misaligned shafts. The Secretary for Development, Ng Hon-ho, stated that the malfunctions are due to improper installation craftsmanship involving deviations in the dimensions of the elevator shaft walls.

The incident has caused delays in the full activation of the new building, affecting the use of new operating rooms and wards. While the Hospital Authority maintains that current medical services remain unaffected, the delay necessitates a reassessment of long-term service planning.

The government has expressed disappointment regarding the project delays. Authorities emphasized that the contractors and subcontractors will be held responsible for the repair costs to ensure no public funds are used for the fixes. The government aims to complete the necessary repairs within the fourth quarter and reserves the right to seek compensation for the construction defects.