Hong Kong’s deadliest fire of the century has put the centuries-old construction technique, bamboo scaffolding, under scrutiny.
The ancient bamboo structure dating back to the Han Dynasty, about 2,000 years ago, is still widely used in Hong Kong for construction and renovation due to its low cost, flexibility and sustainability.
In this technique, bamboo poles are tied together to create a frame for workers to access at different heights for construction projects, renovations, or cultural events.
This structure has been used to build some of the city’s tallest buildings and skyscrapers, including Norman Foster’s HSBC headquarters.
However, the exact cause of the fire that left 55 dead is still unknown. However, the authorities have arrested three renovation workers for gross negligence.
Early reports suggest that the fire started on one of the bamboo scaffolding around the towers in the Tai Po district.
Since bamboo is highly flammable, once ignited, the fire spread very quickly and engulfed several buildings.
Such an incident has been very rare in the city amidst the large-scale construction works being carried out.
However, the government has decided to carry out an inspection of all bamboo scaffolding in the city as a precautionary measure.
The Hong Kong Department of Labor revealed that 24 deaths related to these scaffolds were reported between January 2018 and August 2025.
Earlier this year, the city administration ruled that 50 percent of new public buildings would be built using metal scaffolding for better protection of workers.
