Hong Kong authorities have launched a comprehensive safety enforcement initiative across the city’s construction and maintenance sites following the devastating Tai Po fire that resulted in 159 fatalities. Multiple government departments are implementing rigorous inspection protocols and regulatory measures to prevent similar tragedies.
The Housing Bureau’s Independent Checking Unit has conducted targeted inspections at several major residential complexes, including Sui Wo Court in Sha Tin, Ching Lai Court and Yee Kok Court in Sham Shui Po, On Kay Court in Kwun Tong, and Fung Wah Estate in Chai Wan. These inspections specifically focus on contractors’ compliance with the Development Bureau’s directive to remove all exterior protective netting from buildings undergoing major maintenance by Saturday.
Significant progress has already been achieved, with the Housing Department confirming the complete removal of netting across 15 public housing estates as of Thursday. In parallel, the Buildings Department has collected netting samples from 400 private buildings engaged in external wall repairs for comprehensive analysis.
The Architectural Services Department has examined all 18 active public works projects, gathering additional netting samples for laboratory testing. Meanwhile, the Labour Department has conducted extensive fire safety inspections at 239 construction sites, resulting in 130 written warnings, 61 improvement notices, and 17 prosecutions for violations of fire protection standards and emergency preparedness requirements.
This multi-departmental response represents one of Hong Kong’s most comprehensive building safety initiatives in recent years, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enhancing construction safety protocols and preventing future tragedies through strengthened enforcement and regulatory oversight.