Government Must Lead by Example in Construction Safety, Secretary Linn Says
Crhk · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Development Bureau Secretary Bernadette Linn Hon-hoe delivered opening remarks at the Construction Industry Safety Week, emphasizing that the government and public institutions must lead by example in enhancing construction site safety. Government and public sector works account for over 60 percent of the construction industry, positioning these entities as crucial drivers of safety improvement. The Smart Site Safety System (4S) has been widely adopted, with approximately 80 percent of construction sites across Hong Kong now equipped with the technology. Since the 4S implementation, construction accident rates have fallen by approximately 20 percent between 2023 and 2025. The authorities have collaborated with Shenzhen to establish a pilot program applying the Hong Kong version of 4S in three Qianhai projects, with the goal of establishing a regional demonstration model.
Key Points
- Secretary Bernadette Linn stated that government works and public institutions represent over 60 percent of the construction industry, making them pivotal in driving safety standards
- Approximately 80 percent of Hong Kong's construction sites have installed 4S safety technology, reflecting broad industry adoption
- The 4S system contributed to a roughly 20 percent reduction in construction accident rates during 2023-2025
- The Development Bureau recently updated technical guidelines adding three new 4S device categories for public works to cover high-risk operations more comprehensively
- Three Qianhai projects in Shenzhen have been selected as pilots for the Hong Kong-developed 4S system, aiming to promote Hong Kong's safety technology regionally
Why It Matters
By mandating the 4S system across government-funded projects, Hong Kong can establish construction safety benchmarks that ripple through the entire industry. The Qianhai pilot program represents a significant opportunity to export Hong Kong's safety expertise to the Greater Bay Area, strengthening regional integration while protecting workers. Stricter Buildings Ordinance regulations expected by year-end will further compel contractors to prioritize safety as a core operational responsibility.
By mandating the 4S system across government-funded projects, Hong Kong can establish construction safety benchmarks that ripple through the entire industry. The Qianhai pilot program represents a significant opportunity to export Hong Kong's safety expertise to the Greater Bay Area, strengthening regional integration while protecting workers. Stricter Buildings Ordinance regulations expected by year-end will further compel contractors to prioritize safety as a core operational responsibility.