Our Partner, Charles To, Associate, Hazel Leung, and Trainee Solicitor, Sera Cheng, have co-authored an article examining the Hong Kong Court of First Instance’s landmark decision in 𝘒𝘩𝘢𝘯 𝘍𝘢𝘳𝘰𝘰𝘲 𝘈𝘩𝘮𝘦𝘥 𝘷 𝘋𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘏𝘦𝘳𝘰 𝘍𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘏𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘒𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘓𝘪𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘥 (Foodpanda).

The Court found Foodpanda 80% liable for injuries suffered by a rider working under Typhoon Signal No.8, underscoring that an employer’s duty of care is not suspended during extreme weather.

The article highlights:

Why safe systems of work are essential and cannot be delegated to employees

The inadequacy of informal warnings, disclaimers, or contractual opt-outs

The importance of rapid operational shutdowns and effective communication during emergencies

How contributory negligence was applied in the case and the HK$1.3 million damages awarded

For employers—especially those in the gig economy—this case serves as a reminder that operational convenience cannot override employee safety obligations.

Read the full article for key takeaways on managing liability in times of crisis.