Fines for defying fire-safety rules may hit $200,000

Michael Shum and Wallis Wang

Old building owners may have to pay up to HK$200,000 for failing to comply with fire safety improvement orders, according to a government document tabled at the Legislative Council.

The document proposes amendments to the Fire Safety (Buildings) Ordinance.

The amendment bill will be gazetted this Friday and undergo its first and second readings at Legco next Wednesday.

The key proposed changes include - increasing the maximum penalty for non-compliance with Fire Safety Directions to HK$100,000 from HK$25,000, with a further daily fine raised to HK$10,000 from HK$2,500, and increasing the maximum penalty for defying Fire Safety Compliance Orders to HK$200,000 from HK$50,000, with the daily fine raised to HK$20,000 from HK$5,000.

The government says these harsher penalties are necessary to maintain a strong deterrent effect.

Also, the amendments would empower the Fire Services Department and Buildings Department to carry out fire safety improvement works for non-compliant buildings, with the costs recoverable from owners.

Owners facing financial hardship will be able to apply for government subsidies to cover the improvement works.

The amendments come after the recent No 3 alarm fire incident at New Lucky House in Jordan, which heightened public concerns over old building safety.

michael.shum@singtaonewscorp.com

wallis.wang@singtaonewscorp.com