Associations weigh bamboo scaffolding future amid Hong Kong safety debate

Chiu Tak Siu and Tang Kam Chan

In the wake of a deadly apartment fire in Hong Kong, the government has proposed a roadmap to replace bamboo scaffolding with metal scaffolding – an initiative highlighting similar risks faced in Macau, where the transition to metal scaffolding is ongoing.

However, a representative from Macau’s scaffolding industry remarked, “Let the environment take its course.”

The recent fire in Hong Kong claimed at least 156 lives, and following the tragedy, scaffolding netting and foam insulation were identified as key factors in the rapid spread of flames, raising significant concerns about the safety of bamboo scaffolding.

At a press conference held the day after the incident, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee announced that discussions were underway with the construction industry to advance a roadmap for replacing bamboo scaffolding with metal frames, effectively framing bamboo scaffolding as a primary culprit in the disaster.

However, on Monday, the region’s authorities revealed that the fire was actually caused by contractors installing substandard scaffolding safety nets on the building and attempting to conceal these unsafe materials, which were inexpensive and failed to meet fire-safety standards.

To prevent similar tragedies from recurring, the Hong Kong government is engaging in discussions with the industry about transitioning from bamboo scaffolding to metal scaffolding.

Since 2021, mainland China has officially banned bamboo scaffolding, now using metal scaffolding exclusively in high-rise construction.

In Macau, bamboo scaffolding continues to be the primary structure used in construction projects, and the city’s scaffolding trade gained further recognition in 2017 when it was inscribed as part of Macau’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Macau Scaffolding Worker’s Association chariman Chiu Tak Siu, who entered the trade at the age of 12, has witnessed the history, development, and fluctuations of Macau’s scaffolding industry for more than half a century – a history he knows intimately.

In an interview with the Times regarding the possibility of Macau adopting a ban on bamboo scaffolding, Chiu expressed skepticism, acknowledging that this could lead to the fading of traditional craftsmanship.

He stated, “Whether we follow or not is irrelevant – it’s all about market freedom.”

He added, “I don’t feel sorry about it. Let the market decide. People will see that using metal costs three times as much, so they’ll just skip the renovation altogether. With such expensive renovations, they simply don’t need to do it.”

According to Chiu, among the more than 20 temporary shelter factories, only two utilize steel frames. He pointed out that while some clients might request steel frames, this does not necessarily guarantee safety.

“Using steel frames requires proper anchoring and reinforcement. If issues arise later and you try to fix them, it’s fundamentally impossible,” he explained. He added that steel-frame construction poses safety hazards, as lowering the frames creates danger with each adjustment, sometimes resulting in fatalities.

Additionally, Chiu noted that using iron frames costs three times more than standard renovations; for instance, a renovation that originally cost MOP10,000 now requires MOP40,000.

“If the renovation cost for an entire building is too high, everyone will find it difficult to raise the funds. If no one is willing to invest, what then? Should we just let them emigrate?” he questioned, emphasizing the need to address issues with these old buildings despite the steep renovation costs. He noted that everyone is opting for scaffolding, particularly bamboo methods.

He further explained that scaffolding costs are not a significant proportion of total renovation expenses. For example, for an ordinary house, scaffolding might cost only MOP80 to MOP200, while iron scaffolding would exceed MOP400.

Frustrated by external criticism of bamboo scaffolding and the phasing out of this craft, Chiu admitted that exorbitant warehouse rentals and labor costs threaten the sustainability of Macau’s scaffolding industry.

“I only hope the industry in Macau can continue to survive,” he said. It is understood that job opportunities in Macau are now scarce, with many bamboo scaffolding companies operating with only 10 local workers. Including the owners, this amounts to about 50 people across 10 shops – a workforce far from sufficient to meet demand.

Implementing scientific solutions for fire prevention

“Bamboo scaffolding construction has a long history. We cannot dismiss the entire industry because of isolated incidents. Instead, we should respect and improve industry standards and safety protocols to protect workers’ lives and the overall safety of buildings,” stated Tang Kam Chan, vice president of the Macau Federation of Trade Unions (MFTU) and the Macao Construction Industry General Union, during an interview with the Times alongside Chiu.

He emphasized that the primary task in fire prevention at construction sites is implementing scientific solutions, highlighting the need to understand the root causes of accidents rather than simply banning certain materials. “Fires can originate from natural factors, such as lightning strikes, or human factors,” he explained.

Tang also stressed the importance of government implementation of safety measures. “On construction sites, safety notices must be prominently displayed, and workers should refrain from smoking in work areas,” he urged. Additionally, he pointed out that welding and grinding operations must adhere to safety guidelines and incorporate protective measures to prevent sparks from igniting fires.

Debris clearance is crucial for fire prevention as well. “Accumulated debris on construction sites increases fire risk, necessitating regular cleanup to prevent small fires from escalating,” he noted. He underscored the importance of using appropriate safety nets to prevent material falls, ensuring their quality meets standards and undergoes inspection, particularly regarding their fire-resistant properties.

Looking ahead, Tang advocated for long-term planning that encourages the use of steel pipes as construction materials, while also emphasizing the need to carefully consider their safety.

He noted the risks faced by workers during the dismantling of related structures, asserting that “enhancing workers’ safety awareness through continuous training and awareness campaigns ensures they adhere to safe operating procedures, preventing accidents.”