By Timothy S. Donahue

Authorities in Hong Kong are considering implementing a comprehensive ban on smoking at all construction and renovation sites following last month’s deadly fire in Tai Po that resulted in at least 159 deaths, according to local officials and industry groups.

While the official cause of the fire is still being investigated, media reports and early assessments suggest workers were seen smoking near bamboo scaffolding during renovation work at Wang Fuk Court. Authorities say the flammable materials probably helped the fire spread quickly.

The incident has increased scrutiny of on-site smoking practices. Current enforcement measures already ban smoking in designated high-risk construction areas, with penalties such as fines up to HK$5,000 (US$642), immediate removal from worksites, and possible permanent ban from construction employment.

The Real Estate Developers Association of Hong Kong is currently consulting members on implementing industry-wide guidelines aimed at enhancing contractor accountability and enforcement standards. Officials have stated that a unified policy could be adopted if voluntary compliance is found to be inadequate.

Some developers already have strict rules. CK Asset Holdings Ltd said it enforces a zero-smoking policy within construction zones, allows smoking only in designated off-site areas, and reports violations to the Construction Industry Council.

Under current regulations, Hong Kong’s commissioner for labor has the power to ban smoking at construction sites with flammable materials, which could form the legal basis for a city-wide ban if implemented.

Officials stated that talks are still ongoing and no final decision has been made.