The Labour Department on Friday launched a two-week citywide inspection of fire-prevention facilities and fire-response arrangements at building renovation sites with large scaffolding, focusing on whether the scaffolding netting meets approved fire-resistant standards.

Simultaneously, the Buildings Department is inspecting whether buildings undergoing major exterior wall repairs and using netting on large bamboo scaffolding comply with relevant work codes and guidelines.

FOLLOW LIVE UPDATES: Tai Po fire

The Development Bureau met with construction industry representatives on Thursday to discuss a road map for replacing bamboo scaffolding with metal scaffolding. The bureau emphasized that the plan will not adopt a one-size-fits-all approach but will identify specific work scenarios that are more suitable for switching to metal scaffolding.

The moves follow the deadly fire that broke out on Wednesday at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. The fivealarm blaze across seven residential towers resulted in 128 deaths.

“Metal scaffolding is more fire-resistant than bamboo scaffolding, but once exposed to fire, the metal is more prone to collapse when reaching a certain temperature,” said Chau Sze-kit, chairman of the Hong Kong Construction Industry Employees General Union, during a Friday radio program.

READ MORE: Stricter regulations called for after deadly Wang Fuk Court fire

“Serious accidents have occurred overseas related to metal scaffolding, and I believe the fundamental problem is not the material itself, but the construction management,” Chau said.

He said the association is open to the idea of replacing bamboo scaffolding, but expressed concerns about issues such as the storage and transportation of metal scaffolding. He estimated that a full replacement would take more than two years.

A major renovation at Sui Wo Court in Fo Tan, which began in 2023, is expected to be completed by early 2026.

A video shared on social media platform shows that the netting on the bamboo scaffolding at Sui Wo Court immediately caught fire and melted after contact with a lighter heat source.

An emergency residents’ meeting was held at Sui Wo Court on Thursday to discuss countermeasures to prevent a recurrence of the fire, according to local media reports.

ALSO READ: A long healing journey

During the meeting, some residents expressed concerns about the safety of the work, including whether the netting on the bamboo scaffolding complies with safety standards. Residents also voiced worries about clutter near the renovation site, and the contractor’s management of flammable materials. They urged special attention to whether the workers smoke during construction.

Government representatives at the meeting assured attendees that inspections will be expedited, with test results expected within one or two days, the reports said.