The CIC is committed to creating a safer, more efficient, and more humane new ecosystem for the industry. We are promoting a three-tier subcontracting system, introducing smart monitoring technologies for property management, promoting exemplary construction sites, nurturing talents, and encouraging the use of environmentally friendly building materials. I believe these measures will not only enhance construction efficiency but also promote the sustainable development of the industry. By putting people first, we show respect and care for frontline workers and the environment.
Three-Tier Limit on Subcontractors to Improve Safety in Construction Industry
Multi-tier subcontracting is currently common in private sector projects. However, the more tiers there are, the more difficult management becomes. When responsibilities are unclear, it is difficult to ensure site safety, and workers are at risk of wage arrears, thus leading to many problems.
In the past, I have exchanged views with industry representatives on how to improve the subcontracting system, and there is a general consensus that reducing the number of subcontracting tiers will help management. The CIC urges the industry to limit subcontracting to a maximum of three tiers below the main contractor on private construction projects. Centralised management can speed up processes, increase efficiency, help avoid salary delays and wage arrears, and better protect the rights of subcontractors and workers at all levels. While subcontracting may reduce operating costs, too many subcontracting tiers make safety management exponentially more difficult. If a serious accident occurs on a site, it will inevitably lead to a surge in construction costs due to suspension of works. The pursuit of short-term gains can ultimately lead to significant losses, so the best strategy is to tackle the problem early by limiting the number of subcontractor tiers and centralising management.
Smart Property Inspection Technology to Ensure Building Safety
In addition to institutional change, management quality can be improved through the use of cutting-edge technology. To keep pace with the times, the CIC's "Smart Facilities Management Control Centre" introduces smart technology such as the AI Drone-Based Thermal Facade Inspection system, which integrates with artificial intelligence and Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology, to inspect building exteriors. The thermal devices on the drones emit infrared light, allowing inspectors to view thermal images through controller screens to identify temperature differences on exterior walls and detect building deterioration such as water seepage, concrete spalling, cracking, rust, and corrosion, while also reducing the risks previously faced by inspectors working at height. This technology can save maintenance costs and provide peace of mind to occupants by accurately assessing the condition of a property.
For large machinery, the CIC's Tai Po Training Ground uses the Crane Rope Inspection System and the Crane Base Inspection System to improve site safety. The former uses non-invasive detection methods that do not damage critical structures while continuously evaluating crane conditions and providing high-precision detection reports. The latter can detect base parameters, and monitor the stability of the base round-the-clock to ensure the safe operation of the crane.
Exemplary Sites: Putting People First
Frontline workers are indispensable pillars of the construction industry, and their welfare must be considered during the work process. Recently, I was invited to attend the opening ceremony of the collaboration Centre at the Subsidised Sale Flats Project on Yuen Lung Street in Yuen Long. Together with Ir Wing-Sang YU, Managing Director of Chinney Kin Wing Holdings Limited and Ir Franco CHEUNG, Director (Projects) of Hong Kong Housing Society, I toured the centre and reviewed the application of Smart Site Safety Systems (4S) of the site. Chinney Kin Wing Holdings Limited actively promotes occupational safety and health by running a special collaboration centre where workers can learn health information while socialising and resting. The kick-off ceremony of Chinney Kin Wing Academy's "ELS and Pile Cap Construction Training Course" was held on the same day. In future, workers will receive more free education and training to enhance their professional skills at the academy.
I also attended a morning meeting at the construction site of the Yau Tong Ventilation Building property development project to remind everyone "Site Safety is Everyone's Responsibility". The project managers from the Sino Group and the representative from MTR Corporation both emphasised the importance of"Safety First", safety measures and dynamic risk assessments. The morning meeting also provided translation services for ethnic minority workers, demonstrating a culture of workplace inclusiveness.
To encourage workers to look after their health, the contractor, Gammon Construction, has set up a "Health Zone". Registered nurses are scheduled to measure workers' blood pressure, blood sugar, blood oxygen levels, and cholesterol levels on a weekly basis. Advice on healthy diet and weight management is provided to help workers maintain good health. The solar-powered Health Zone is energy efficient and environmentally friendly, demonstrating a commitment to green operations in daily practice.
In the past, the construction site environment has often been criticised. In recent years, many dedicated and knowledgeable industry practitioners have contributed significantly to improving site conditions. They promote safety management and care for workers. The working environment on construction sites in Hong Kong has improved significantly compared to the past. I hope that everyone in the industry will uphold the belief of putting people first, learn from these exemplary practices, and continue to strive forward.
WorldSkills Training Base Opens To Nurture Future Craftsmen
In recent years, representatives from the CIC have achieved excellent results in the WorldSkills Competition (WSC). To achieve better results, excellent training environments and facilities are essential. The Hong Kong Institute of Construction's Sheung Shui campus opened the “Painting and Decorating”, “Plumbing and Heating” WSC Training Base in mid-March. Designed with reference to the WSC environment and similar domestic training bases in mainland China, the base is equipped with the competition modules and specified tools for the 2024 WorldSkills Competition held in Lyon of France, allowing competitors to practise their skills in a highly realistic simulated environment. In the future, the CIC plans to gradually establish more training bases for WSC events, using this facility to train more future craftsmen and help them realise their dreams.
Giving New Life to Waste Wood: Typhoon-Felled Trees Transformed into Zero Carbon Park Eco-Materials
"Love our Nature and Be Benevolent" is a motto that we should embrace. It guides us to uphold the concept of conservation and to strive for sustainable construction, fostering coexistence with our planet. Last month, the CIC-Zero Carbon Park successfully completed a pilot project to restore a trellis. At first glance, the trellis appears no different from typical structures. However, the wood used was sourced from Y·PARK's Yard Waste Recycling Centre, a facility managed by the Environmental Protection Department, which collects fallen trees and garden waste. Though the trees had fallen, they were reborn through the skilled hands of craftsmen. This recycling effort highlights the CIC's commitment to supporting green building and promoting sustainable lifestyles. It also demonstrates to the industry and the public that waste can be transformed into valuable resources.
This project used 150 pieces of wood from the trees felled by typhoons. The wood pieces underwent processes such as air drying and termite treatment before they could be used. They were coated with anti-UV and waterproof layers for extra protection, making them more durable. Craftsmen have engraved each piece of wood from the fallen trees with information about the tree species, original region, typhoon name, and year, expressing our respect and appreciation for nature. The design helps visitors understand the origin of each piece of recycled wood, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of environmental education.
Looking at the clear growth rings on the wood pieces of the trellis, with the marks of time deeply etched into the wood, one cannot help but be touched by the efforts of the tree planters. Cherishing our objects is not just an environmental protection concept in our minds; it builds an emotional bridge connecting the past, present, and future, reminding us, as inhabitants of a bustling metropolis, not to forget the importance of coexisting with nature.
To keep our industry thriving, it is not necessary to spend lavishly or follow trends. Maintaining the spirit of "Love our Nature and Be Benevolent" is the fundamental way to ensure the continuous vitality of the construction industry.
