Story perspectives

Fire Tragedy Sparks Overhaul of Hong Kong's Scaffolding Safety

12/12/2025

Summary

Story summary

David Lam, a Hong Kong lawmaker, described the construction industry as rotten after allegations that Novox Ltd submitted fake hospital certificates.
A Wang Fuk Court fire killed at least 160 people and raised fire-safety concerns.
Investigations found that flammable scaffolding materials contributed to the fire's rapid spread.
The government announced new safety requirements for scaffolding nets, including mandatory testing.
Buildings Department ordered removal of scaffold nets from over 200 sites.

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Story summary

David Lam, a Hong Kong lawmaker, described the construction industry as rotten after allegations that Novox Ltd submitted fake hospital certificates.
A Wang Fuk Court fire killed at least 160 people and raised fire-safety concerns.
Investigations found that flammable scaffolding materials contributed to the fire's rapid spread.
The government announced new safety requirements for scaffolding nets, including mandatory testing.
Buildings Department ordered removal of scaffold nets from over 200 sites.