In the wake of last month’s deadly Tai Po fire — which killed at least 159 people — Hong Kong authorities are weighing a full ban on smoking at all construction sites.

Officials are still investigating the blaze’s official cause. But reports say workers were seen smoking during the apartment block’s renovation, near bamboo scaffolding that authorities say helped the fire spread quickly. That footage has put a spotlight on on-site smoking, especially during renovation work.

Media and regulators have noted repeated violations at Wang Fuk Court. Current steps include notices warning workers not to bring cigarettes onto sites and penalties that can include a HK$5,000 ($642) fine, immediate removal from the site, and potential permanent barring from construction work.

The Real Estate Developers Association is collecting member feedback on possible industry-wide guidelines and has stressed that contractors must enforce any new rules. Some developers — including CK Asset Holdings Ltd — already enforce strict no-smoking policies, maintain designated smoking areas off-site, have stepped up enforcement, and report breaches to the Construction Industry Council.

Under existing Hong Kong rules, the commissioner has the power to prohibit smoking at sites that use flammable materials, which could provide a legal basis for broader restrictions if authorities decide to act.

This article was adapted from an original report published on tobaccoreporter.com. All rights belong to the original publisher.