Letters | Investigate real causes of Tai Po fire before blaming bamboo scaffolding
Readers discuss why bamboo scaffolding is a cultural asset that should be preserved, respecting the contributions of all in community, watching the tragedy from afar, and the appropriate distance between buildings in a housing estate
Many people, both professionals and laymen, have argued that the focus of the probe should be on the mesh covering and plastic sheets used that might not meet the basic fire-retardant requirements. We should not be scapegoating bamboo poles.
Eric Yung Chun-tang, chairman of the Association of Registered Fire Service Installation Contractors of Hong Kong, said the type of netting used was critical to controlling the spread of the flames. Regulations require fire-retardant materials, he said, stressing that replacing bamboo scaffolding would not solve the problem if the nets were not compliant.
The Buildings Department has also sent a circular to all registered contractors requiring them to certify that the protective nets, screens, tarpaulins and plastic sheeting installed at their sites must meet recognised fire-retardant standards.