NEW TAIPEI (TVBS News) — New Taipei City (新北市) launched a comprehensive safety inspection on Friday (Jan. 17) at Honghui Plaza (宏匯廣場) to address public safety, food safety, and electric vehicle charging stations. New Taipei Deputy Mayor Chu Ti-chih (朱惕之) led the initiative during the pre-Lunar New Year shopping rush, aiming to prevent health and evacuation issues due to increased consumer traffic.
The city government targeted the five largest supermarkets and department stores for joint inspections. The Fire Department conducted fire safety checks at 2,685 busy locations and organized rescue drills at seven large venues to enhance emergency response capabilities. The city's Public Works Department (工務局) inspected fire prevention and evacuation facilities at 64 stores exceeding 3,000 square meters, ensuring immediate compliance with building regulations for any deficiencies.
Key inspection areas included the compliance of electric vehicle charging stations, food labeling and storage hygiene, accurate meat origin labeling, and the functionality of fire safety equipment. Inspectors also checked the accessibility of safety facilities such as emergency staircases, escalators, and fire doors, as well as the implementation of self-defense fire drills and indoor air quality.
Chu emphasized the responsibility of businesses to maintain operational safety equipment and clear evacuation routes. He noted the city's aims to ensure a safe shopping environment and protect consumer rights during the festive season.