Powder checks at Hong Kong venues following explosion at Taiwan water park

The Fire Services Department has stepped up checks on the use of coloured powder at entertainment premises following Saturday's explosion and fire at a water park in Taiwan, which injured more than 500 and claimed its first fatality yesterday.

Terrance Tsang Wing-hung, licensing and certification commander of the department, said yesterday that 28 venues had been inspected on Sunday and officers were satisfied no coloured powder was used.

"In the wake of the tragedy in Taiwan, we have stepped up our inspection. We shall continue to conduct surprise checks at public entertainment venues to make sure they are up to fire safety standards," Tsang said.

Organisers must apply for a licence from the government to hold public events and relevant departments, including the fire service, will be consulted before permits are granted.

Tsang said there were no plans to recommend a ban on the use of coloured powder at public events.

"In outdoor situations, and where the air circulation is better, the risk of dust explosion is lower. So, if an organiser applies to use coloured powder outdoors, its application will be given due consideration and we shall provide relevant fire safety guidelines."