Prevention of Incidents Involving Falling Objects from Rooftop Gardens and Open Balconies

Ms Joan Pereira asked the Minister for National Development in respect of trees, plants, furniture and objects on rooftop gardens and open balconies (a) how many incidences have there been in the last five years involving these objects being blown off due to strong winds; (b) whether there have been any consequent injuries, fatalities or property damage; and (c) whether the Ministry will consider more stringent regulations and enforcement to prevent future incidents.

The Ministry has not received reports of trees, plants or furniture blown off rooftop gardens and open balconies in the last five years. But there were three cases of poorly affixed plastic roof sheets that were blown off from building trellis structures due to strong winds. Fortunately, no injuries or damage arose from these cases.

Building owners are responsible for the safety of features installed on their roofs and terraces. All bracings, mounting systems and fixings used to secure the installation of building features should be properly designed and able to withstand loads from wind and rain in accordance with current building codes. Last year, the Building and Construction Authority issued an advisory to remind stakeholders of the need for proper installation and maintenance of such features. We will continue to review regulations, and will tighten them if necessary, to ensure that public safety is not compromised.

Owners and tenants also need to take the potential threat of falling objects from high-rise buildings seriously. All of us should exercise a duty of care and have the civic responsibility to ensure that loose and lightweight items, like outdoor furniture and flower pots, are properly secured, and not placed in a manner that could pose a threat to public safety.

If an object falls from height and endangers safety or causes hurt or death, the person responsible could be liable for an offence under the Penal Code. Depending on the severity of the offence, a person could be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to five years, or with a fine, or with both.