Hong Kong Fire Investigation Reveals Use of Non-Compliant Scaffolding Netting

Hong Kong authorities have determined that substandard scaffolding netting significantly contributed to the rapid spread of the fire at Wang Fuk Court, which resulted in at least 151 fatalities. Investigations revealed that contractors replaced fire-resistant netting with cheaper, non-compliant materials after a typhoon damaged the original coverings. To deceive inspectors, compliant netting was installed at easily accessible areas, while the substandard netting was used elsewhere. Eric Chan, Hong Kong’s Chief Secretary, stated that seven out of 20 netting samples failed fire-safety standards, with non-compliant samples found in hard-to-reach areas. The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) arrested eight individuals on suspicion of corruption related to the renovation works. Additionally, 13 people have been arrested on suspicion of manslaughter. The fire, which began on November 26, 2025, engulfed seven of the eight towers in the Wang Fuk Court complex, making it one of Hong Kong's deadliest in decades. Authorities continue to search for victims and investigate the incident.