Mr Wong King Ho, King

Mr Wong King Ho, King
BSc (Hons) in Environmental and Occupational Safety and Health (EOSH) (2012) 
Property Safety Manager, MTR Corporation Limited

After graduating from the EOSH programme at PolyU in 2012, I was fortunate to enter the rapidly growing construction industry. I began my summer internship at Gammon Construction Limited in 2011, joined the company as a Graduate Trainee in 2012, and became a Registered Safety Officer in 2013. I moved to the MTR Hong Kong Property Business Unit in 2016 and was promoted to Property Safety Manager in 2022.

My job duties include overseeing the Property Management Department, ensuring safety protocols for more than 7,000 workers and 120,000 residential units. Managing safety in property management is challenging, especially with the many interfaces between workers and residents. For example, coordinating maintenance work in areas open to residents requires careful planning to ensure safety and minimise disruptions. My department often shares best practices for knowledge exchange and has won numerous external safety awards, proving the recognition of our overall safety management system.

One key initiative was implementing a comprehensive risk assessment framework that proactively identifies and mitigates potential hazards. This framework includes strategies for different stakeholders and the use of advanced technology. These efforts have improved safety outcomes and fostered a culture of continuous improvement and vigilance.

"No Safest. Only Safer." 
This motto embodies my core values and aspiration. I strive to excel as a safety professional and contribute to the advancement of the construction industry. I am honoured to have received the Champion of Safety Practitioner Award from The Lighthouse Club Hong Kong in 2019, which aims at inspiring construction professionals, especially the younger generation, to innovate and enhance the Hong Kong construction industry.

In addition to my professional duties, I am actively involved in the Society of Registered Safety Officers and the Lighthouse Club Hong Kong Safety Committee. These engagements allow me to contribute to the broader safety community and stay updated with the latest industry practices.

PolyU’s EOSH programme provides a blend of academic and practical experiences, equipping me to launch, grow, and succeed in my career. I encourage current students to take full advantage of the opportunities provided by the programme. Engage deeply with your coursework, seek out internships, and participate in industry events. Building a network of peers and mentors can provide invaluable support and guidance throughout your career.

I sincerely thank all my supervisors throughout my career for their unwavering support.

To current students and young professionals: "Think globally, act locally". Commit yourself to excellence and to the betterment of the construction industry and community as a whole. Embrace continuous learning and be open to new ideas and technologies that can enhance safety standards and practices. Attend safety workshops, join professional organisations like the Society of Registered Safety Officers, and actively seek mentorship opportunities.

PolyU EOSH graduates are entering another prosperous decade, especially as the Legislative Council passed the Occupational Safety and Occupational Health Legislation (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill 2022 on 19 April 2023. The future of the EOSH field is bright, with emerging trends in ESG practices and advanced safety technologies. I sincerely wish you all the best in seizing the opportunities of this new golden era. Remember, your dedication to safety can make a significant impact on the industry and society.