Buildings safety review

THE Government is to launch a $40 million study on building safety.

In a submission to legislators for funding approval, the Buildings Department proposed to employ consultants to study all 14,500 buildings constructed between 1959 and 1980.

The two-year survey would focus on steel corrosion and material deterioration.

The consultants will conduct analysis, surveys and visual inspections. The 9,350 buildings with canopies will face in-depth investigation and strength evaluation.

The move follows the collapse of a canopy in Aberdeen last August and the recent ceiling collapse in Kwai Chung Estate. Both accidents were caused by steel corrosion.

On Wednesday, an inquest recorded a verdict of accidental death on a newspaper hawker killed in the Aberdeen tragedy. Yesterday, the Government said it would inspect all public flats more than 25 years old.

The Legco Finance Committee will discuss the $40 million proposal on Friday.