Following the tragic, multi-casualty No. 5 alarm fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, the Hong Kong Labour Department (LD) is launching a comprehensive, territory-wide enforcement operation focused on enhancing fire safety and emergency preparedness across construction sites. Beginning Friday, the two-week initiative will specifically target building maintenance projects utilizing large-scale scaffolding, aiming to prevent similar catastrophic incidents and protect workers.
The LD expressed profound concern and sorrow regarding the casualties stemming from the Wednesday blaze, extending deep sympathies to the affected families and the injured. Recognizing the urgent need for action, the department initiated the specialized enforcement drive to scrutinize high-risk areas within the construction sector.
Focus on Scaffolding and Fire-Retardant Standards
During the special operation, inspectors will rigorously examine fire protection facilities and emergency readiness protocols on active construction sites. A critical focus will be placed on the materials used for protective screens, commonly known as scaffold nets. Inspectors will verify that these materials adhere to recognized fire-retardant standards designed to safeguard both the site and surrounding properties.
Furthermore, the LD announced a collaborative effort with the Buildings Department (BD) to inspect structures undergoing major external wall repairs that involve extensive bamboo scaffolding. This joint inspection aims to ensure the installed scaffold netting aligns fully with relevant Codes of Practice and Guidance Notes governing material safety and application.
Zero Tolerance for Safety Breaches
Occupational safety officers are prepared to take immediate and robust enforcement action upon discovering legislative breaches. This includes issuing suspension and improvement notices, and pursuing prosecutions without prior warning to effectively deter unsafe practices. The LD stressed a zero-tolerance approach toward contractors prioritizing speed over safety.
Amid persistently dry weather conditions, which significantly heighten fire risks, the LD issued a stern warning to all contractors. They emphasized the immediate need to bolster fire safety management, particularly concerning bamboo scaffolding, and insisted that all materials used on sites meet strict fire safety criteria. Regular debris clearance is mandatory, and smoking on construction sites remains strictly prohibited.
For hot work activities, such as welding and flame cutting, which inherently generate sparks, contractors must strictly adhere to comprehensive safety protocol derived from thorough risk assessments. Crucially, sites must be equipped with sufficient and effective firefighting equipment strategically positioned for immediate deployment.
Contractors are strongly urged to proactively reinforce their fire safety management systems to prevent recurrence of incidents like the Tai Po tragedy, thereby protecting both their operations and their workforce.
Support for Affected Employees
In related guidance, the Labour Department appealed to employers to show consideration for staff whose work schedules or well-being have been disrupted by the Tai Po incident. Employers are encouraged to offer flexible work arrangements where feasible to support affected personnel during this difficult time. For inquiries related to employment matters arising from the disruption, employers and employees can contact the dedicated LD hotline at 2929 4054. The enhanced enforcement effort underscores Hong Kong’s commitment to raising industrial safety standards and protecting its urban landscape from preventable disasters.