Reports of a deviation in the structural dimensions of the lift-shaft wall at Queen Mary Hospital’s clinical block and below-standard concrete strength in public housing in Tung Chung Area 42 prompted questions about construction quality at a media gathering on 12 October. Frank Chan Fan, president of The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, said he would wait for investigations and their findings before commenting on the cases or assigning responsibility.
Chan acknowledged that reports of engineering problems had become more frequent, but said Hong Kong’s overall construction standards, implementation and workmanship remained globally top-tier.
He said engineers must comply with the law and regulations, protect public safety and uphold professional conduct. If a manager pressured an engineer to cross those boundaries, Chan said, the engineer should refuse the work, even if that meant resigning.
The institute said it would act if a member breached its core values. If an investigation confirmed a member’s involvement in an unlawful act, it would follow established procedures.