Hong Kong may permanently revoke lift firm's licence over missing fire doors
Hong Kong's Electrical and Mechanical Services Department is gathering evidence and seeking legal advice on permanently revoking the licence of Taiwan-Japan Elevator over 720 missing fire-resistant door frames. The company has proposed remedial works, expected to be completed in two to three months.
The Legislative Council's Development Affairs Committee held a special meeting to discuss the case of Taiwan-Japan Elevator (TJE) failing to install fire-resistant door frames on 720 lifts. Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) Chief Engineer Ng Yuk-wa said TJE had submitted a remedial plan deemed effective by the department. TJE is expected to finish remedial works at two public housing estates by mid-November, with the rest completed within two to three months. Ng stressed that EMSD will carefully inspect every lift to ensure compliance, and has reported suspected fraud and false statements to the police.
EMSD Director Poon Kwok-ying said the department is gathering evidence and consulting the Law Officers' Department. Prosecution and disciplinary hearings may follow, with a possibility of permanently revoking TJE's licence.
Legislator Tang Ming-sun questioned whether the existing multi-tier supervision system was overly reliant on engineers confirming the installation of fire-resistant door frames. Development Secretary Ngan Hon-ho acknowledged that while TJE bore responsibility, EMSD's inspections had focused on safety components. The department will adjust its inspection regime, with a review expected by the end of the year.
Legislator Tang Pak-kei said the case was clearly fraudulent and questioned why TJE's licence had not been immediately suspended, warning that other contractors might be emboldened to violate rules. Ngan responded that suspension would halt all of TJE's ongoing projects, and other contractors might be unwilling to take over unfinished work. Given practical considerations, TJE had been required to fulfil its contractual remediation obligations and had cooperated, but still faced investigation.
