XN000022-1996-11-21 — Page 25

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Buildings Dept sets up special teams for Yau Ma Tei fire

The Director of Buildings, Dr Choi Yu-leuk, said today (Thursday) that he has set up two special teams to carry out technical investigations on a Yau Ma Tei building which caught fire yesterday.

While extending his condolences to the relatives of the fire victims, Dr Choi said one team, headed by a chief structural engineer, would identify defects and recommend measures for their removal.

The second team, headed by a chief building surveyor, will carry out a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the tragedy, focusing on the provision of means of escape and the overall building design standards.

The occupation permit of the affected commercial building was issued in December 1975. It has 16 floors and a basement.

Dr Choi said his department had been keeping under review the need for improvements in the administrative and enforcement practices with a view to further enhancing fire safety in private buildings.

"To provide a more strengthened and detailed fire protection approach for new buildings, we have in the last two years completely revised and updated the Code of Practice (COP) for Means of Escape, the COP for Fire Resisting Construction and the COP for Means of Access.

"The three COPs provide a better fire protection assurance to the building owners and occupants, as well as the general public," Dr Choi said.

Regarding the Fire Safety (Commercial Premises) Bill, which is being scrutinised by a Bills Committee of the Legislative Council, Dr Choi said the proposed legislation was a very important safeguard against fire.

"We are aware that certain commercial premises, especially those of 20 to 30 years old, fall short of present-day standards.

"The Bill seeks to remedy the shortfall. If endorsed by the Legislative Council, the Bill will make it easier for us to ensure adequate protection of life and property against fire. Public safety is our prime concern," Dr Choi said.

End