TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Miaoli County Magistrate Chung Tung-chin (鍾東錦) stated Tuesday (Dec. 2) that authorities have directed thorough inspections of high-risk buildings and construction materials. The initiative follows a deadly fire in Hong Kong's Tai Po district on Nov. 26. Chung emphasized the need for enhanced site management and occupational safety training to improve emergency response capabilities.
Chung instructed the Department of Economic Development (工商發展處), the Labor and Youth Development Department (勞工及青年發展處), and the Fire Department (消防局) to conduct comprehensive audits of high-risk structures. He urged community management committees to strengthen high-rise emergency response and disaster prevention education. Current building regulations leave exterior wall material selection to property owners or management committees, with no legal authority for government intervention.
Department Director Chan Tsai-pin (詹彩蘋) stated the county government could offer guidance on construction safety and risk management during community meetings. This initiative aims to enhance community awareness of engineering risks and ensure safe construction practices. The county government highlighted that exterior wall repairs involve high-altitude work, with occupational safety standards set by the Ministry of Labor (勞動部), Taiwan's labor ministry.
The Department of Labor and Youth Development will oversee inspections to ensure the safety of construction workers and nearby residents. The Department of Economic Development plans to review and discuss management regulations for construction facilities. The departments will collaborate with the Fire Bureau and other relevant units to safeguard residents' safety. ◼
