A breath of fresh air, that’s the first female sewer worker in Hong Kong
Cockroaches, snakes and that smell are all part of a ‘very special’ job under the city streets for Chu Wun-chau
Chu Wun-chau is greeted by a stink, dozens of cockroaches and even the odd snake on some occasions, but that’s all in a day’s work.
For 58-year-old Chu is the one and only female sewer worker to be employed by the Drainage Services Department since it was established in 1989.
She is always lifting up manhole covers because she is responsible for testing gases and unblocking drains on Hong Kong Island and the outlying islands.
“It can be hot and sweaty, but I’m pretty used to my job,” said Chu, who has worked in the department for 19 years.
There are 80 sewer workers in the city, according to the department, and Chu made history last year when she was promoted from workman, who is responsible for getting equipment ready for those who work down in the sewers.
She was the only woman out of 25 candidates to be interviewed, during which she was tested about road and occupational safety, for the positions available.