Hong Kong's Deadliest Fire in 80 Years Sparks Debate Over Bamboo Scaffolding

A devastating fire in Hong Kong's Tai Po district has resulted in significant casualties, marking the deadliest blaze in the city since 1948. The fire, which broke out on November 26, escalated to a five-alarm level and claimed 55 lives, including a firefighter, with 72 injured and over 200 still unaccounted for. Authorities have arrested three individuals, including a construction company executive, on suspicion of manslaughter.

Preliminary investigations suggest that flammable materials, such as foam insulation and non-fire-resistant protective coverings on the building's exterior, may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. The incident has reignited public scrutiny over the widespread use of bamboo scaffolding in Hong Kong, which constitutes over 80% of construction scaffolding despite government efforts to promote metal alternatives.

Bamboo scaffolding, a traditional construction method in Hong Kong, is prized for its cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and quick assembly. However, its flammability has long been a concern. Critics argue that the lack of mandatory fire-resistant standards for scaffolding materials poses a significant safety risk. Recent fires involving bamboo scaffolding, including a 2012 blaze and another in October 2023, have highlighted these dangers.

Industry representatives defend bamboo scaffolding, emphasizing that proper management and the use of fire-resistant nets could mitigate risks. They also point to the cultural and economic significance of bamboo scaffolding, which supports thousands of jobs. Nonetheless, calls for stricter regulations and a transition to metal scaffolding are growing, with some experts suggesting treatments like epoxy coatings to enhance bamboo's fire resistance.

The Hong Kong government has previously encouraged the use of metal scaffolding in public projects but faces resistance due to higher costs and logistical challenges in the city's dense urban environment. As debates continue, the tragedy underscores the urgent need for comprehensive safety reforms in Hong Kong's construction industry.