Ad
Thursday, October 9, 2025

Hong Kong Tightens Bamboo Scaffolding Safety Rules

ADVERTISEMENT

Hong Kong, one of the few places in the world still using bamboo scaffolding on modern construction sites, is stepping up safety standards.

A new set of regulations designed to improve worker safety will take effect on October 19th, marking a significant shift in how the traditional craft is managed on construction projects.

The updated Code of Practice (CoP) for Bamboo Scaffolding Safety introduces stricter guidelines for how bamboo scaffolds are built, maintained, and inspected.

Key changes include tougher requirements for bracings and putlogs, more detailed supervision procedures, and mandatory certifications for workers handling the scaffolding.

The Labour Department in Hong Kong is taking a no-nonsense approach to enforcing these new rules. Violators face immediate penalties, from project shutdowns to legal action.

For months, the construction industry has been preparing for the shift, with a six-month grace period granted to help companies get up to speed.

During this time, the Labour Department rolled out extensive training and public awareness campaigns to ensure that everyone in the industry is ready for the new regulations.

A Unique Tradition Under the Spotlight

Bamboo scaffolding is a common sight in Hong Kong, where it’s still used on everything from high-rise towers to residential buildings. This ancient technique, admired for its strength, flexibility, and eco-friendly properties, has been part of the city’s skyline for generations.

Despite its traditional roots, it remains a crucial part of Hong Kong’s modern construction industry.

While many other regions have moved to steel scaffolding, Hong Kong continues to embrace bamboo—blending old-world craftsmanship with modern engineering. However, the risks involved in working with bamboo, especially at great heights, have driven the need for these updated safety standards.

ADVERTISEMENT

Popular Categories

Latest news

The magazine

Issue 27 | Past issues >>

Popular

ScaffChamp 2025: Teams Gather in Vilnius for Opening Day

The international scaffolding competition ScaffChamp 2025 has officially begun,...

Construction starts slump as housing confidence falters

The UK construction industry is facing renewed decline, according...

Ethiopia church scaffolding collapse kills at least 30

At least 30 people have died and more than...

Storm Amy set to hit UK with severe winds and rain

The UK is bracing for Storm Amy, the first...

National Scaffolding Week 2025 launches to celebrate industry’s people and skills

National Scaffolding Week 2025 has officially launched, shining a...

Related articles

Hong Kong to Phase Out Bamboo Scaffolding Over Safety Concerns

Hong Kong is set to scale back its iconic use of bamboo scaffolding as officials take steps to improve safety standards on building sites. In a policy shift announced this week, the Development Bureau...
- Advertisements -

Latest topics

PERI UP system supports cladding remediation at Hilton Hotel

The Hilton Hotel in Kingston upon Thames is undergoing...

Midland Scaffolding staff go the distance in charity challenge for Poppy

Midland Scaffolding Services (MSS) has raised an impressive £20,000...

AT-PAC names new UK MD as ScaffEx25 showcases national ambitions

After unveiling a wave of new systems at Bauma...

ScaffEx25: An Industry Comes of Age in Manchester

Two days in September that showcased not just where...
- Advertisement -