Tai Po fire: Simulation finds substandard scaffold nets caused rapid spread of blaze, inquiry hears (opens original article in a new tab)

A fire simulation revealed that non-fire-retardant scaffold nets and removed fireproof windows contributed to the rapid spread of the Tai Po blaze, which killed 168 people.

• Fire simulation found non-fire-retardant scaffold nets likely caused secondary ignitions, worsening the blaze.
• Test showed fireproof windows could block extreme heat but were removed for worker access, allowing smoke into staircases.
• Over 90% of victims were in the first two buildings to catch fire, with escape routes blocked by debris and ineffective alarms.