The number of industrial accidents in the catering industry declined from more than 12,000 in 1999 to less than 8,100 last year, and the downward trend continued in the first half of this year.

Speaking at the 11th Catering Industry Safety Award Scheme award presentation ceremony today, Commissioner for Labour Cherry Tse said as tourist numbers are picking up, growth in the industry also entails challenges to occupational safety and health.

She said with the concerted efforts of the Government, employers, employees and all other stakeholders, the occupational safety and health performance in the catering industry can continue to improve.

This year's Catering Industry Safety Award Scheme has 234 catering establishments participating. A total of 207 management staff have been nominated for the supervisor award.

Co-organised by the Labour Department since 1999, the scheme commends catering establishments, supervisors and workers with exemplary work safety and health performance.