Fire Safety Industry Welcomes Ordinance Revision, Backs Stricter Regulation
HK01 · 1 SOURCES1 day ago2 MIN
Summary
Three prominent figures from Hong Kong's fire safety industry have expressed enthusiastic support for the government's proposed revisions to the Fire Services Ordinance. Following the devastating Wang Fuk Court fire in Tai Po, the Policy Address outlined comprehensive amendments that the sector says will significantly improve fire safety standards across the territory.
Key Points
- The revisions centre on six pillars: strengthening fire device regulation, enhancing Fire Services Department enforcement powers, introducing fixed penalties, and establishing contractor and technician registration systems
- Zhou Jie-bing, Chairman of the Wan Chai District Fire Safety Committee, says the measures respond directly to public expectations and are essential for protecting lives and property
- Yung Chun-tang, Chairman of the Hong Kong Association of Registered Fire Engineering Companies, supports the new registration and renewal systems, which he says will ensure technicians keep their skills current and maintain professional standards
- Under the proposed changes, maximum fines for failing to maintain operational fire devices or arrange annual inspections would jump from $50,000 to $500,000—a ninefold increase designed to serve as a stronger deterrent
- Chen Zhiqiu, former President of the Hong Kong Property Management Companies Association, emphasises that the higher penalties will encourage device owners to take their legal obligations more seriously
- The industry association has held multiple meetings with the Fire Services Department and stands ready to assist members with training and compliance as the amendments take effect
Why It Matters
The proposed amendments represent the most significant overhaul of Hong Kong's fire safety regulatory framework in recent years. With industry backing already secured, the government appears well-positioned to implement stricter enforcement measures that could prevent future tragedies similar to the Wang Fuk Court blaze .
The proposed amendments represent the most significant overhaul of Hong Kong's fire safety regulatory framework in recent years. With industry backing already secured, the government appears well-positioned to implement stricter enforcement measures that could prevent future tragedies similar to the Wang Fuk Court blaze .