Scaffolding nets removed across Hong Kong as firms seek to meet 3-day deadline
Workers begin taking down green mesh, a day after government orders their removal following allegations of false safety certificates issued at sites
The mesh, commonly draped over bamboo scaffolding erected at buildings under construction or renovation, came under heavy scrutiny after authorities found that contractors had installed cheaper, non-fire-resistant netting alongside approved materials to deceive inspectors at Wang Fuk Court, accelerating the spread of the fire last week.
The government on Wednesday ordered the removal of all 200 scaffolding nets across the city after a Shandong-based manufacturer was alleged to have falsified safety certificates for materials used in housing renovation projects at Fung Wah Estate in Chai Wan and Fortress Garden in Fortress Hill.
On Thursday morning, workers were seen removing scaffolding mesh at a Kim Shin Lane development in Cheung Sha Wan, as well as at other buildings under renovation.
At Federal Mansion on Castle Peak Road, the green mesh was removed and “no smoking” signs were attached to the bamboo scaffolding.
A 72-year-old resident surnamed Cheung, who has lived there since 1983, said the renovation had cost about HK$60,000 (US$7,700) per household, which she felt was “unavoidable”.
“I feel more at ease to have the mesh removed, given what happened in Tai Po. I think the government is at least doing something about it, even if it’s a week late,” she said.