The Government is committed to improving the management in Macao of dangerous substances, in a bid further to protect the public’s safety and the safety of their property, as well as in order to support the growth of local industry.

In the near term, the Government plans to establish a mechanism to coordinate work relating to dangerous substances. Such materials include hazardous and flammable chemicals and industrial gases.

The new management system would include monitoring the transportation of dangerous substances, and communication and coordination with neighbouring areas in case of any accident caused by hazardous products.

The Government pays great attention to the management of hazardous substances and dangerous goods. Following an explosion in Tianjin on the mainland last August, the Chief Executive, Mr Chui Sai On, immediately requested all public departments to optimise safety management procedures for such substances and goods. The issue was also discussed in a meeting of the Security Council – an advisory body on public security policy – held in December.

The Secretary for Security, Mr Wong Sio Chak, was appointed by the Chief Executive to oversee interdepartmental coordination regarding the handling of dangerous substances and for the optimisation of Macao’s regulations on hazardous substances and dangerous goods.

In addition, the Fire Services Bureau on Monday (18 April) met with five local companies that deal with industrial gases. The meeting was held in order for the Bureau to gain more knowledge on the latest developments in the industry.