General Legislation
Launch of the Type Approval Process and Authentication System
With the rapid technology advancement, technologies like cloud computing, artificial intelligence and optical character recognition are becoming increasingly popular. We have leveraged digital technologies to develop a brand-new digital system for replacing the traditional paper-bound application process. After a long period of preparation, we plan to launch the Type Approval Process and Authentication System (TAPAS) in 2024, to significantly shorten application processing time. Through the new TAPAS, contractors will be able to easily fill out and upload the necessary documents for lift or escalator “type approval” applications, while the EMSD can directly review and approve applications, saving time on manual data entry and verification of information.
Signing a Memorandum of Understanding on Jointly Promoting the Development of GBA Standards
The Trade and Industry Department and the Guangdong Administration for Market Regulation have signed a memorandum of understanding in Shenzhen to promote the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) standards, with the aim of advancing GBA standards, including the officially published Specifications for Risk Assessment of Traction Lifts. Based on this standard, we have carried out on-site risk assessment of over 100 lifts.
As lift risk assessment is a relatively new concept for property owners and maintenance contractors, the EMSD has collaborated with the Vocational Training Council to offer relevant training courses for trade members. In late February 2024, we held two pilot training sessions to introduce the items and processes involved in risk assessment, facilitating the application of lift risk assessment in Hong Kong. In the future, we will actively encourage owners and maintenance contractors to carry out risk assessment based on this standard to enhance safety awareness.
