Bangkok Tightens Safety Checks at 1,066 Businesses

Bangkok is conducting strict safety inspections at 1,066 establishments, checking building safety, fire prevention systems, and hygiene standards. The city has launched a Self-Check online system allowing business operators to submit self-assessment documents.

On July 27, 2025, at Bangkok City Hall, Deputy Governor Pornprom Wickitsetr announced the enhanced safety initiative. A meeting held on July 26 brought together Bangkok authorities and business operators to discuss raising safety standards for service venues and similar establishments throughout the city.

Bangkok has identified 147 licensed service venues and 919 similar businesses, totaling 1,066 establishments. These "similar" businesses differ from licensed venues in that they operate outside zoning restrictions but hold permits for food service and entertainment, which are considered health-risk activities.

Bangkok has therefore upgraded its inspection checklist beyond the original public health focus to include comprehensive building safety and fire prevention standards. Inspections now cover three main areas:

1. Building Safety (ventilation systems, electrical systems, decorative materials, thermal insulation, soundproofing) 2. Fire Prevention (emergency exit signs, fire suppression systems, fire alarm systems, firefighting equipment installation, evacuation routes, emergency lighting, and related systems) 3. Hygiene (building condition, noise control and prevention, ventilation, lighting, toilets, urinals, hand-washing facilities)

Bangkok will launch a Self-Check online system through the Digital Office, covering five critical categories:

1. Fire prevention systems 2. Electrical wiring, sound systems, signaling systems 3. Wall and ceiling materials, insulation 4. Floor plans showing operational area and maximum occupancy 5. Insurance coverage and liability insurance for injury or property damage to third parties

Business operators must attach photos and certified documentation from engineers before submitting data to Bangkok authorities. The system will be distributed to all operators by July 28, 2025, with a deadline of September 30, 2025, for completing self-assessments and submissions as part of Bangkok's citywide safety standard enhancement initiative.

Suriyachai Raviwon, Director of the Bureau of Prevention and Disaster Relief, explained that the bureau has developed a three-phase safety management framework for businesses: Prevention Readiness (appointing risk assessment officers, training staff in basic firefighting and evacuation drills, continuous safety campaigns); Response Readiness (clear decision-making procedures and command structures, designated response and evacuation teams, alert systems and guides); and Recovery Readiness (coordination plans with external agencies, damage assessment, and business recovery support measures).