Taizoom Elevator Accused of Cost-Cutting on Fire Safety in 48 HK Lifts
SCMP · 1 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong authorities have uncovered alleged cost-cutting and false declarations by Taizoom Elevator (Hong Kong) involving fire-safety components in 48 lifts across two public housing estates. Inspections revealed the contractor submitted fire-resistance test reports despite only installing fire-resisting doors without the required door-frame components. The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department has referred the case to police for further investigation.
Key Points
- Taizoom Elevator (Hong Kong) is accused of installing only fire-resisting doors without required door-frame components at Tsui Ping (North) Estate in Kwun Tong and Pok Hong Estate in Sha Tin
- The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department conducted surprise inspections and found the fire-door installation was incomplete despite submitted test reports claiming compliance
- Affected lifts include 39 units at Pok Hong Estate (replaced between May 2025 and July 2026) and 9 units at Tsui Ping (North) Estate (replaced between February and July 2026)
- The department has referred the case to police for investigation of possible fraud and false representations under the Lifts and Escalators Ordinance
- The Housing Authority said it was highly concerned and vowed to pursue liabilities against Taizoom
- Officials confirmed the lifts remain safe for normal operation while ordering Taizoom to reinspect and install missing components at its own expense within one month
- A citywide inspection of all Taizoom-installed lifts is under way
Why It Matters
The case exposes potential gaps in construction quality oversight for critical safety infrastructure in public housing, where proper fire-door assemblies are essential for containing fire and smoke in lift shafts during emergencies . The referral to police signals possible criminal liability beyond regulatory fines, while the Housing Authority's vow to pursue Taizoom suggests substantial contractual and legal consequences ahead for the contractor .
The case exposes potential gaps in construction quality oversight for critical safety infrastructure in public housing, where proper fire-door assemblies are essential for containing fire and smoke in lift shafts during emergencies . The referral to police signals possible criminal liability beyond regulatory fines, while the Housing Authority's vow to pursue Taizoom suggests substantial contractual and legal consequences ahead for the contractor .