Hong Kong gov’t begins public consultation on fire safety reforms after Tai Po fire

The Hong Kong government has initiated a public consultation on proposed amendments to the city's fire safety laws, six months after a fatal fire at the Wang Fuk Court housing estate in Tai Po. The month-long consultation, launched on Tuesday, aims to bolster public safety, enhance regulatory coherence, and improve enforcement effectiveness. It also seeks to address public concerns for better fire safety standards, particularly in light of the deadly blaze that occurred in November. A spokesperson for the Security Bureau stated that the proposed amendments will encompass the Fire Services Ordinance and related legislation concerning fire safety equipment, the professionals responsible for its oversight, and the Fire Services Department's authority to address fire hazards. The government also intends to strengthen the enforcement powers of the Fire Services Department in specific areas and combat illicit fueling activities. Tuesday marked the six-month anniversary of the Wang Fuk Court fire, which resulted in 168 fatalities and displaced thousands of residents. The tragedy exposed significant shortcomings in the Fire Services Department's role in overseeing fire safety during major renovation projects in densely populated housing estates. Officials had pledged reforms during a public inquiry into the incident. The proposals were developed by the government's Task Force on Strengthening Fire Safety Governance, established after the fire and chaired by Secretary for Security Chris Tang. The public can submit their views via email or mail until June 25. The government aims to finalize these proposals and present a bill to the Legislative Council later this year.

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We will also take this opportunity to appropriately enhance the enforcement powers of the Fire Services Department (FSD) in specific areas and combat illicit fuelling activities, among others.