Hong Kong Orders Elimination of Scaffolding Mesh After Deadliest Blaze in Decades

Introduction

On December 3, 2025, Hong Kong authorities declared a sweeping emergency order to remove all scaffolding mesh from buildings undergoing renovations by Saturday. This unprecedented decision follows the territory’s deadliest fire in recent history, which claimed 159 lives at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex. Investigators confirmed that flame-retardant standards were catastrophically breached by the protective netting used during renovations. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the disaster, regulatory responses, safety implications, and actionable insights for stakeholders.

Analysis

Origin of the Disaster

The fire at Wang Fuk Court—a 33-story residential block undergoing major renovations—rapidly spread via combustible scaffolding mesh and external bamboo scaffolding. Fire services reported flames leaping between tower blocks within minutes, overwhelming fire containment efforts. Key findings include:

• Mesh material failed mandatory flame-retardant certification.
• Bamboo scaffolding provided fuel for vertical fire spread.
• Renovation protocols lacked enforcement of safety inspections.

Government Response

Development Secretary Bernadette Linn Hon-ho announced an immediate elimination order affecting approximately 300 structures, including 200 private and 10 public buildings. She emphasized: “We will hold accountable any contractors using substandard materials.” Testing labs have already received mesh samples for accelerated analysis.

Investigation Progress

Hong Kong police have arrested at least 15 individuals on manslaughter charges. Commissioner Joe Chow confirmed searches of all seven towers are complete, with focus shifting to bamboo debris zones. “We must determine if bodies remain trapped under fallen scaffolding,” he stated. To date, 140 of 159 victims have been identified—49 men and 91 women aged 1 to 97.

Summary

The Wang Fuk Court tragedy has triggered a citywide safety overhaul. The mandatory removal of scaffolding mesh aims to prevent similar disasters, while criminal investigations target regulatory breaches. With 31 people still missing, authorities stress this is Hong Kong’s most devastating fire since the 1994 Mong Kok catastrophe.

Key Points

Practical Advice

For Property Owners & Developers

1. Immediate Compliance: Remove all mesh netting by the deadline. Document removal processes with dated photographs.
2. Material Selection: Use only certified fire-retardant fabrics meeting EN 13501-1 standards.
3. Third-Party Audits: Engage independent inspectors to verify scaffold integrity before resumption of work.

For Residents

• Report suspicious scaffolding materials to the Buildings Department via official portals.
• Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes in renovation-affected buildings.
• Participate in community safety briefings organized by management corporations.

Points of Caution

Risks of Non-Compliance

Failure to adhere to the elimination order may result in:

• Imposed fines up to HKD 1 million.
• Criminal prosecution under the Buildings Ordinance (Cap. 123).
• Civil liability for damages or injury claims.

Safety Pitfalls

Even post-removal, hazards persist:

• Improperly disposed mesh can become fire fuel.
• Exposed bamboo frameworks require immediate encapsulation.
• Temporary protective covers must undergo safety testing.

International Comparison

Scaffolding Safety Standards

Hong Kong’s reactive ban contrasts with proactive regimes:

Legal Implications

Criminal Liability

The Buildings Ordinance imposes strict duties on:

• Contractors: Section 40A allows prosecution for “gross negligence causing death.”
• Owners: Failure to enforce safety orders may constitute “criminal damage.”

Civil Claims

Victims’ families can pursue compensation under the Tortious Liability Ordinance for:

• Wrongful death damages.
• Permanent injury compensation.
• Psychological trauma claims.

Conclusion

The Wang Fuk Court disaster underscores systemic vulnerabilities in Hong Kong’s construction safety framework. The emergency mesh ban represents a critical first step, but sustained reform—through stricter material testing, independent oversight, and harsher penalties—is essential to prevent future tragedies. Stakeholders must treat this event as a catalyst for cultural change in renovation safety practices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What materials are banned under the order?

All temporary protective netting, including scaffolding mesh and bamboo covers, are prohibited until certified replacements are installed.

Who enforces the elimination deadline?

The Buildings Department, supported by the Fire Services Department, will conduct random inspections and issue enforcement notices.

Can penalties be appealed?

Yes. Parties may appeal to the Lands Tribunal within 28 days of receiving a penalty notice.