China: Man dies of organ failure after working for 104 days
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A man in China reportedly fell victim to the work culture of the country, after he died due to organ failure. SCMP reported that the 30-year-old man worked for 104 days, with only one day off.
Guangzhou Daily reported that a court has ruled that the company is 20 per cent responsible for the man passing away. The man has been identified as A’bao, and the court found that he died from multiple organ failure caused by a pneumococcal infection.
The infection mostly affects those with a weakened immune system.
Meanwhile, the company has contended that he died from pre-existing health issues because he didn't reach out for medical attention on time.
A’bao had been working for the company as a painter since February last year on contract. It was set to expire in January this year, but he was moved to another project in the Zhejiang province.
He worked every day for 104 days from February to May and took only one rest day on April 6. On May 25, he felt ill and took a day off, spending the rest of the day at his dormitory.
Three days later, A’bao’s condition rapidly deteriorated. He was rushed to hospital where he was diagnosed with a lung infection and respiratory failure. He couldn't recover and died on June 1.
Investigations
After conducting initial investigations, social security officials said that since the time between his falling sick and death was more than 48 hours, it does not fall into the category of a work-related injury.
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His family sued the company, asking for compensation, and alleging employer negligence.
The company fought back, saying that A’bao’s workload was manageable and the overtime was voluntary. Meanwhile, the court said that working for 104 consecutive days was a clear violation of Chinese Labour Law. As per the law, no employee should work for more than 8 hours per day and an average of 44 hours per week.
It added that the breach of labour regulations played a major role in his immune system becoming weak and eventual death. The family has been awarded a total of 400,000 yuan (US$56,000) in compensation, including 10,000 yuan for emotional distress.
