104 Days of Non-Stop Work Leads to Fatal Organ Failure
In a distressing incident highlighting the harsh realities of workplace culture in China, a 30-year-old man known as A’bao succumbed to multiple organ failure after working for an exhausting 104 consecutive days with only one day off. The South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported that the man’s relentless work schedule ultimately led to his death.
Court ruling: Employer partially responsible
A court has determined that the company employing A’bao is 20 percent responsible for his untimely death. According to Guangzhou Daily, the court found that A’bao died from multiple organ failure, which was triggered by a pneumococcal infection. This infection typically affects individuals with weakened immune systems, a condition likely exacerbated by A’bao’s grueling work schedule.
Company’s defense: Pre-existing health issues
The company argued that A’bao’s death was due to pre-existing health conditions and his failure to seek timely medical attention. They claimed that his workload was manageable and that any overtime was voluntary.
A’bao had been employed as a painter by the company since February of the previous year under a contract set to expire in January. However, he was reassigned to a project in Zhejiang province, where he worked without a break for 104 days straight, except for one rest day on April 6. On May 25, feeling unwell, A’bao took a day off, spending it in his dormitory. His condition worsened rapidly, and he was rushed to the hospital three days later.
Rapid deterioration and hospitalization
Upon his arrival at the hospital, A’bao was diagnosed with a severe lung infection and respiratory failure. Despite medical efforts, he could not recover and tragically passed away on June 1.
Legal battle and compensation
Following initial investigations, social security officials stated that because the time between A’bao falling ill and his death exceeded 48 hours, the case did not qualify as a work-related injury. His family subsequently sued the company for compensation, alleging employer negligence.
The court found that A’bao’s continuous work schedule violated Chinese Labour Law, which stipulates that employees should not work more than 8 hours a day and an average of 44 hours per week. The court concluded that this breach significantly weakened A’bao’s immune system, contributing to his death.
Final verdict: Compensation awarded
The family was awarded 400,000 yuan (approximately US$56,000) in total compensation, which includes 10,000 yuan for emotional distress. The court’s ruling serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to labor laws to protect workers’ health and well-being.
This tragic story underscores the dire consequences of overwork and the critical need for companies to prioritize the health and safety of their employees.
