30-yr-old Chinese painter dies after working 104 consecutive days without rest

In a tragic case highlighting the dangers of overwork, a 30-year-old Chinese painter named A’bao died of organ failure after working 104 consecutive days with only one day of rest. Employed under a rigid contract since February 2023, A’bao developed a severe pneumococcal infection that led to his death in June, according to a report by the South China Morning Post.

A’bao had signed up to work on a project in Zhoushan, Zhejiang province, with the project lasting until January. His work schedule was intense, with daily shifts stretching from February to May, except for a single break on April 6. On May 25, A’bao fell ill and took a sick day, but his condition rapidly deteriorated. Three days later, his coworkers rushed him to the hospital, where doctors diagnosed him with a lung infection and respiratory failure. Despite medical intervention, A’bao passed away shortly after.

Family Seeks Justice

Following A’bao’s untimely death, his family filed a lawsuit against his employer, accusing them of gross negligence. The case gained national attention when social security officials ruled that his death could not be considered a work-related injury. They cited the timing of his passing as a factor in their decision. However, A’bao’s family argued that the relentless work schedule, with inadequate rest, played a significant role in his demise.

Employer’s Defense and Court Ruling

The employer claimed that A’bao’s workload was within legal limits and stated that any extra hours worked were voluntary. They also blamed pre-existing health conditions for his death, arguing that he had delayed seeking medical attention. Nevertheless, the court ruled in favour of A’bao’s family, holding the employer 20% liable for his death. The court awarded the family 400,000 yuan (approximately ₹47,19,036) in compensation, including 10,000 yuan for emotional distress.

This ruling has sparked widespread debate on labour practices and workers' rights in China, raising concerns about the enforcement of labour laws.