A MAN who ruptured his spleen after falling into an uncovered manhole has been awarded 100,000 yuan (US$15,800) in compensation, the Songjiang District People’s Court said yesterday.

　　The victim, surnamed Geng, told the court that the accident happened in Songjiang District in August last year, close to where he was working as a security guard at a construction site.

　　After falling into the hole, Geng complained to his colleagues of pains in his stomach and was sent to hospital. Doctors there told him he had ruptured his spleen and that the organ would have to be surgically removed.

　　Seeking recompense, Geng sued the company responsible for the manholes, which was not named by the court.

　　The court found in his favor after ruling that the company had failed in its duty to ensure public safety.