A 70-year-old man in Foshan, China, tragically passed away while using a restroom at a local health management centre.
The man, surnamed Huang, suffered a sudden cardiac arrest, prompting his family to seek compensation from the centre, claiming it had failed to provide timely assistance.
The incident occurred on the morning of August 27, 2024, when Huang entered the centre and asked to use the restroom.
Staff became concerned after noticing that one of the toilet doors remained locked for an unusually long period.
Staff Response and Emergency Measures
When there was no response from Huang, the centre’s operator, Mr. Ma, and an employee, Mr. Xie, immediately called emergency services and broke down the door.
They found Huang slumped on the floor. Medical personnel confirmed that he had already passed away, and police and forensic investigators later determined the cause of death to be sudden cardiac arrest.
Family Sues for Compensation
Following the death, Huang’s family filed a lawsuit against the centre, demanding 213,538.80 yuan (approx. S$38,517), claiming the business “failed to fulfil its safety obligations.”
The claim included funeral expenses, transportation fees, and compensation for emotional distress.
The family argued that the centre had failed to take effective measures in time, resulting in a missed opportunity to save Huang’s life, Oriental Daily reported.
Court Decision Favours Centre
The centre defended itself, stating that lending the restroom was an act of goodwill and that staff acted immediately once they noticed the situation.
They requested that the court dismiss all claims.
The Foshan Gaoming District People’s Court ruled in favour of the centre, noting that the family could not provide evidence showing the premises were unsafe or that the centre had neglected its duty of care.
The court emphasised that the staff had acted within reasonable limits to provide initial assistance and emergency support.
Family’s Appeal Dismissed
Huang’s family appealed the decision, but the Foshan Intermediate People’s Court upheld the original ruling.
The judge explained that the centre was not a professional medical institution and had only lent its restroom out of goodwill.
Staff had already provided reasonable assistance by calling emergency services and attempting initial rescue efforts.
The court noted that the centre was not required to offer additional medical care, as sudden cardiac arrest is complex and cannot be directly linked to the presence or absence of medical equipment.
The ruling emphasised that acts of kindness should not be penalised, and excessive liability could discourage similar good deeds in society.
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