Authorities in Hong Kong are considering implementing a comprehensive smoking ban across all construction sites following last month’s tragic Tai Po fire, where at least 159 people were killed. While the official cause of the fire is still being investigated, reports say workers were seen smoking at the site of the apartment building’s renovation, near bamboo scaffolding, which authorities say fueled the rapid spread of the fire.
The blaze has heightened scrutiny over workers’ smoking during renovation projects, with reports indicating repeated violations at Wang Fuk Court. Current measures include notices warning workers against bringing cigarettes onto sites, with penalties including fines of HK$5,000 ($642), immediate removal from the site, and potential permanent barring from construction employment. The Real Estate Developers Association is gathering member feedback to potentially issue industry-wide guidelines, emphasizing contractor responsibility for enforcement.
Some developers, including CK Asset Holdings Ltd, already maintain strict no-smoking policies with designated smoking areas, intensified enforcement, and reporting to the Construction Industry Council. Under existing Hong Kong regulations, the commissioner may prohibit smoking at sites using flammable materials, providing a legal basis for broader restrictions if adopted.