XN000022-1996-09-27 — Page 16

-

14 -

"It will also gather data on the durability performance and deterioration trends of cantilevered structures in these buildings and to ascertain their structural adequacies under the deteriorated conditions. About 1,000 cantilevered slab canopies will be investigated," he said.

The consultancy was awarded to a joint venture formed by three consultants at a cost of $38 million. They are Taywood Engineering Limited, Ove Arup and Partners Hong Kong Limited, and Vigers Hong Kong Limited.

The survey will cover a total of 13,000 buildings and will be carried out in three parts in two years' time:

Visual inspection of the roof, external wall, and common areas of the 13,000 buildings to assess the nature and extent of their deterioration and causes for potential safety concerns;

Detailed investigation to be carried out on some 1,000 buildings, which would be statistically representative samples in different age sub-groups identified from part one above;

Structural investigation of 974 cantilevered slab canopies.

Some of these investigations will need to be done inside individual premises. To prove their identity, every member of the survey teams will carry an identity card and an authorisation letter issued by Buildings Department.

Advance notices will also be sent to the owners or occupants notifying them of the visit. Enquiries on the survey can be made to the Buildings Department on 2626 1309.

Dr Choi pointed out that the project was a major study and survey on the conditions of buildings.

"Based on the consultants' recommendations, the Buildings Department will be able to formulate a strategy for improving building safety in Hong Kong.

"I would like to take this opportunity to appeal to all the building owners. owners' corporations, and occupants involved in the survey to co-operate fully with the survey teams to make this project a success," Dr Choi said.

End