Hong Kong Orders Urgent Removal of Scaffold Netting After Safety Failures

Construction companies across Hong Kong are rushing to remove scaffolding netting to meet a strict three-day government deadline. The order follows the discovery of suspected fake safety certificates for mesh at two building sites. This action comes after a deadly fire in Tai Po that killed at least 159 people. Authorities are now heavily scrutinizing the mesh, which is commonly draped over bamboo scaffolding on construction and renovation sites. Investigators found that some contractors installed cheaper netting that is not fire-resistant. The government now requires all sites to prove their netting meets official fire safety standards or remove it immediately. The urgent removal aims to address critical public safety concerns. The government has warned of serious consequences for any firm that fails to comply with the deadline.