A Tragic Death and Controversial Company Response
A 50-year-old security guard named Zhou collapsed and died after having breakfast in the security room of an apartment complex in Xi’an, China. According to reports, he had arrived at work an hour earlier than his official shift, which led to a heart attack on a day when the temperature reached 33 degrees Celsius. His death has sparked a heated debate between the bereaved family and the employer over whether it qualifies as an industrial accident.
Zhou had been working at the complex for many years, but despite having a contract, the employer was found not to have paid social insurance premiums. This lack of coverage has raised concerns about the overall treatment of employees and the conditions they endure. The dormitory where Zhou lived was reportedly overcrowded, housing 20 people in less than 200 square meters (about 60 pyeong). The space was poorly lit and maintained, with unsanitary conditions that could have significantly impacted the quality of life for residents.
The family argues that the extreme heat, combined with the absence of air conditioning in both the security office and the dormitory, may have contributed to Zhou’s death. They believe the company should be held responsible for the unsafe working and living conditions.
However, the company insists that Zhou’s death did not occur during his official working hours, and thus cannot be classified as an industrial accident. Instead, they are offering only a small amount of humanitarian compensation rather than full compensation. A company manager acknowledged that if the incident were recognized as an industrial accident, the compensation would be much greater. However, the final decision rests with the local government’s determination of the case.
Despite this stance, the manager also mentioned plans to install air conditioning in both the security rooms and dormitories in the future. This statement has drawn criticism from some who see it as a belated response to long-standing issues.
Zhou’s daughter shared memories of her father, highlighting that he was once recognized by the company as a model service employee and an excellent worker. She emphasized that he was dedicated and hardworking throughout his career. Apartment residents also expressed their condolences, describing Zhou as a kind and responsible person who often helped the elderly and pregnant women in the community. Children in the area also liked him, further illustrating his positive impact on those around him.
The incident has gained significant attention on Chinese social media, with over 15 million views. Netizens have expressed anger and frustration, questioning the company’s refusal to acknowledge the incident as an industrial accident. One user commented, “It’s too much to say that it’s not an industrial accident when you don’t buy insurance and work in a place where there’s no air conditioner.” Another criticized the company’s cold treatment of an employee who simply arrived early for work.
Currently, Zhou’s family is in ongoing negotiations with the company and awaits the local authorities’ judgment on whether the incident qualifies as an industrial accident. According to China’s regulations, deaths caused by acute illness while on duty or performing work-related tasks are considered industrial accidents. In such cases, families can claim funeral expenses, compensation for bereaved family members, and death benefits.
This tragic event has highlighted broader issues surrounding labor rights, workplace safety, and the responsibilities of employers in ensuring the well-being of their employees. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the local authorities will rule and what steps the company will take to address the concerns raised by the public and the victim’s family.
