TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Taipei City Construction Management Office (台北市建管處) announced on Tuesday (Jan. 7) that it will launch an unannounced safety inspection targeting 47 department stores, malls, and restaurants. Officials aim to ensure consumer safety during the busy Lunar New Year shopping season and year-end banquets. They will assess safety stairs, smoke rooms, fire shutters, and emergency exits.
Inspectors will impose fines of NT$120,000 for violations under the Building Act (建築法), requiring businesses to rectify issues within a set period. If a follow-up inspection finds non-compliance, penalties will increase to NT$300,000. Director Yu Chi-hsueh (虞積學) stated the checks remind businesses to prioritize safety, prevent disasters, and protect consumers.
Yu emphasized the importance of keeping safety doors, staircases, fire shutters, smoke rooms, and corridors clear of obstructions to ensure safe evacuation routes. He encouraged the public to report violations through the Citizen Hotline 1999, connected to the Construction Management Office.
