A worker left blind and toothless three years ago by an explosion inside the chamber he was working in is suing a contractor and subcontractors involved in the Chek Lap Kok airport project for more than $15 million.
Wong Wing-chiu, 44, has to wear artificial eyes costing $9,000 a pair to improve his appearance, according to a High Court writ launching the action.
Mr Wong was making $1,200 a day helping to build a retaining wall on the North Lantau Expressway. He was blinded after an explosion in his 11.4 metre-deep caisson on October 29, 1996, as he was drilling.
Named as defendants are main contractor Aoki Corporation, B+B Construction, and Tobishima Kensetsu Kabushiki Kaisha trading as a joint venture.
Work on the wall was subcontracted to Chin Ho-yan, trading as Sino Union Engineering & Construction, and Fung Chuen trading as Chuen Kee Construction Eng. Mr Chin and Mr Fung are also being sued.