Wrongful death litigation in Hong Kong and Japan

Legal actions have been initiated in Hong Kong and Japan following fatal accidents involving workers and employees.

In Hong Kong, the administrator of the estate of a 38-year-old electrical apprentice has filed a lawsuit in the High Court. The apprentice died in September 2023 due to electrocution while performing solar panel work at the Hong Kong Science Park. The claim seeks damages, interest, and legal costs from five companies, alleging that the death resulted from negligence, breach of employment contract, and breach of statutory duties. Previously, four companies involved in the project were convicted of failing to take measures to prevent electrical hazards.

In Japan, the family of a 27-year-old man has filed a lawsuit in the Tokyo District Court seeking approximately 113.8 million yen in damages. The man died from heatstroke while participating in a corporate ekiden (relay race) intended for goodwill. The lawsuit names NTT Data, Kirin Holdings, and ten managers and organizers. The plaintiffs argue the event was closely related to work and that the deceased felt unable to refuse participation. The case is expected to focus on whether the organizers fulfilled their duty of care and the extent to which the participation was mandatory.