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The BD Division had the privilege to organise the captioned visit on 17 January 2025. The visit was greatly enriched by the presence of Ir Franco Cheung, Director (Projects) of the Hong Kong Housing Society, whose insights added valuable context and depth to our understanding of the project.
The development at Kai Tak Area 2B1 is an ambitious project featuring two 40-storey residential buildings, which will offer 1,800 subsidised sale flat units, addressing a significant portion of the community’s housing needs. In addition to these residential units, the project includes a two-storey retail belt, designed to serve the residents with shopping and dining options to enhance their living experience. These amenities are integral to creating a vibrant community atmosphere that will help to make the development not just a place to live but a lively neighbourhood.
A standout feature of this project is its commitment to innovation and safety, demonstrated by the use of the Smart Site Safety System (4S). This advanced system improves on-site safety with cutting-edge monitoring and management technologies. Additionally, the project employs Multi-trade Integrated Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MiMEP) and Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) techniques. These modern construction methods aim to boost productivity, efficiency, and overall project delivery outcomes.
The site office is a prime example of modern construction practices, utilising Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) technology. It is also equipped with recreational amenities such as a basketball court and an entertainment room, to help encourage a supportive and home-like environment for the workers. These facilities are crucial in promoting well-being and reducing stress-related safety risks, which can significantly impact the success of any project.
During our visit, we had the opportunity to try out the recreational facilities, which created a harmonious atmosphere and allowed us to engage with the project in a relaxed setting.
This experience not only deepened our understanding of the project’s scope and execution but also highlighted the importance of integrating community and worker well-being into the development process. Generally, the visit was an enlightening experience that offered valuable insights into the future of housing development in Hong Kong.
On 11 January 2025, the BD Division organised the captioned visit, to the Sun Hung Kai UMTC site in Ha Ko Po Tsuen. The visit aimed to showcase the innovative UMTC system developed by Lighthouse under Sun Hung Kai, which was designed to enhance the working conditions of construction crane operators by eliminating the need for them to climb 30 m of heights and remain there throughout the day, including breaks for bathroom and lunch.
The UMTC system is equipped with numerous key advanced technologies to improve lifting safety and productivity. These include: Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), which provides precise positioning data; Artificial Intelligence/ Augmented Reality (AI/AR) sensors, which enhance situational awareness and provide real-time data analysis; 3D Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), which offers detailed 3D mapping of the site; 5G Internet and Wi-Fi Coverage, which ensure seamless communication and data transfer; Anti-Collision System, which prevents collisions with other objects or structures; and Accident Prevention System, with alerts operators to potential hazards.
The control room for the UMTC was set up at ground level, equipped with large screens that display real-time site conditions and data, including wind speed, lifting weight and height, maximum loading capacity, tilting angle of the crane, and so forth. The system also provides visual and auditory alerts for operators if there are any obstacles or workers entering the lifting zone.
All participants were amazed by the new technology applications on site and expressed great interest in the UMTC system. There was a consensus that adopting such advanced technology could significantly raise construction safety and site productivity to a new level.
The technical visit to the Sun Hung Kai UMTC site was a resounding success, providing participants with valuable insights into new construction technology.