Construction Industry Council - Annual Report 2024

ANNUAL REPORT 2024 183 OUR SUSTAINABILITY JOURNEY Recognising Skilled Workers: Trade Testing We continued conducting trade tests and training courses to set industry standards and offer recognised qualifications for elevating construction professionalism. In 2024, 155 Types of Trade Tests 22,558 Trade Tests Conducted Refrigerants can harm the ozone layer and contribute to climate change. Recognising this, the Hong Kong Construction Industry Trade Testing Centre (HKCITTC) took proactive steps in 2024 to reduce the environmental impact of refrigerants in the construction industry. In 2024, the HKCITTC’s Supervising Instructor joined the Refrigerant Committee of the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) to provide expert advice, including: • Incorporating a practical test on safely and environmentally handling refrigerants into the 4-hour Air Conditioning Trade Test (Unity System) • Establishing an 8-hour theoretical training course on refrigerant handling to enhance technical knowledge EMSD accepted and supported these proposals. Industry practitioners who pass both the trade test and training course will soon qualify as EMSD Authorised Refrigerant Handling Technicians. The HKCITTC assists the construction industry in turning environmental challenges into opportunities, paving the way for a more sustainable future. The 3rd Hong Kong Construction Skills Competition The 3rd Hong Kong Construction Skills Competition introduced the Beginner Group competition this year, offering secondary school students a chance to explore construction skills and experience the competition format. Held in December 2024, the competition featured around 30 students competing in Bricklaying, Joinery, Painting and Decorating, Plumbing and Heating, Wall and Floor Tiling, and Welding. Over two hours, participants applied their training to complete tasks, showcasing both effort and determination. Enabling Industry Limitless Possibilities Building Tomorrow’s Workforce: Hong Kong Institute of Construction Hong Kong Institute of Construction (HKIC) is shaping a forward-thinking workforce to lead the construction industry. Offering advanced diplomas, certificates, and hands-on site experience, the HKIC collaborates with contractors, employers, and trade unions. In 2024, 263 diverse training programmes were provided to address the industry’s varied needs. 4 Advanced Diploma Programmes 7 Diplomas in Construction Programme 3 Certificates in Construction Programme 71 Part-time Courses offered by HKIC 74 Part-time Courses offered by SPDC 40 Short Courses 60 Skill Enhancement Courses 4 Commissioned Courses