Diagram D3: Fireman’s Lift

Separate liftwell for fireman’s Lift (see Clause D9.1)

Separate lift lobby

(see Clause D11.1)

Up to 3 lifts may share the same well provided all

are designed as fireman’s lifts (see Clause D9.1)

Fireman’s lift – min. car size

1.35m² and rated load
680kg (see Clause D10.1)

Enclosure wall of lift lobby –

FRR not less than that of
the floor served (see
Clause D11.1)

Lobby door – FRR not less

than that of lobby wall and
self-closing (see Clause
D11.1)
Common lift lobby
with other lifts is
permitted if such
lobby is provided on
every floor served by
any of these lifts (see
Clause D11.3)

Note:

1. Where more than one lift is installed, the Director of Fire Services shall designate the fireman’s lift
(Clause D6.1)

137
Diagram D4: Access to a Fireman’s Lift at Ground Storey (see Clause D7.2)

Fire service access

point at Ground Storey

Fire
rated
door
18m max.

Protected lobby

Fire rated
door

Fireman’s lift

Minimum FRR required in Clause D7.3(b)

Minimum FRR required in Clause D7.3(b)

138
Diagram D5: Requirement on Change in Gradient of EVA (Clause D22.2(c))

Notes:

1. For any change in gradient of EVA, the acute angle α between the two adjoining planes
shall not be greater than 6 degrees.

2. In the case of a change in gradient of EVA where the acute angle between the two planes is
larger than 6 degrees, there should be provided an intermediate plane of a minimum length
of 10m such that the requirement in Note 1 above is complied with, i.e. all the acute angles
α between the adjoining planes shall not be greater than 6 degrees.

3. If the intermediate plane is a bend, the plane should be of a minimum length of 12m
measured along the centerline of the plane.

139
 Diagram D6: Requirements of EVA for Buildings for Use Classification 6 in
Virgin Sites (Clause D22.3(a))

Note:

1. EVA (A) and EVA (B) should be two separate EVAs if access to the site from more than one street is
available.

140
Diagram D7: Emergency Crash Gate (Clause D22.4)

141
Diagram D8: Provision of Clear Space for Emergency Crash Gate
(Clause D22.4)

142
Diagram D9: Layout Sign at Entrance of EVA (Clauses D24.2(a)
and D24.3(a))

143
Diagram D10: Indication Sign along EVA in the Form of Carriageway
(Clause D24.2(b))

144
Diagram D11: No Parking Sign (Clause D24.2(c))

Notes:

1. The specifications of “No Parking” signs shall follow the provisions in Road Traffic (Parking
on Private Roads) Regulations, Cap. 374, Laws of Hong Kong and the Code of Practice for
Private Roads.

2. The diameter of the “No Parking” sign to be erected at both ends of the EVA shall be
450mm whereas for those in between, signs of 200mm or 300mm diameter may be
employed.

145
Diagram D12: Route Sign Along EVA Not in the Form of Carriageway
(Clause D24.3(b))

146
 Part E -
Fire Properties of
Building Elements and
Components

This Part contains six Sections:

• Section 1 – General

• Section 2 – Loadbearing Elements

• Section 3 – Non-loadbearing Elements

• Section 4 – Protection of Openings in Fire Barriers

• Section 5 – Non-combustibility

• Section 6 – Fire Testing Authorities

• Reference – List of Tables

147
Section 1 – General
Subsection E1 – Use of this Part

Clause E1.1

This Part provides the Deemed-to-Comply provisions for the fire properties of building
elements and components and should be read in conjunction with all other Parts in this
Code.

Clause E1.2

Section 35 of the Building (Construction) Regulation stipulates the requirements for the
design and construction of buildings to inhibit and resist the spread of fire and sections 28
and 30 of the Regulation stipulate the combustibility requirements for cladding and curtain
walls. This Part provides guidance on how the fire properties of building elements and
components may comply with these sections.

Clause E1.3

Relevant parts of the international standard of ISO and the national standards stipulated in
this Part are considered acceptable to the Building Authority for demonstrating the fire
properties of the building elements and components. The Building Authority may also
accept the corresponding latest versions of these standards as meeting the above
requirements. Where it is intended to use other standards, authorized persons should
demonstrate complying with Clause E16.2 that such standards are equivalent or not inferior
to the international or the national standards stipulated in this Part.

Subsection E2 – Scope

Clause E2.1

Part E is applicable to all Use Classifications in Table A1 of Part A.

Commentary
There are two principal groups of fire tests for building elements, materials and components:
(a) Reaction to fire – the extent to which a product burns and contributes to the
development of a fire. Products include walls, floors and ceiling linings, etc.
(b) Resistance to fire – the ability of a product to prevent the spread of flame and/or
smoke from a fully developed (post-flashover) fire, and where relevant, to maintain
stability, integrity and insulation characteristics.

148
Section 2 – Loadbearing Elements
Subsection E3 – Fire Tests for Loadbearing Elements

Clause E3.1

Loadbearing elements should be tested in accordance with the following applicable

standards to demonstrate the required FRR (structural stability, integrity and insulation as
appropriate):
(a) BS EN 1363-1:1999, Fire resistance tests. General requirements;

(b) BS EN 1365-1:1999, Fire resistance tests for loadbearing elements. Walls;

(c) BS EN 1365-2:2000, Fire resistance tests for loadbearing elements. Floors and
roofs;
(d) BS EN 1365-3:2000, Fire resistance tests for loadbearing elements. Beams;

(e) BS EN 1365-4:1999, Fire resistance tests for loadbearing elements. Columns;

(f) BS EN 1365-5:2004, Fire resistance tests for loadbearing elements. Balconies and
walkways;

(g) BS EN 1365-6:2004, Fire resistance tests for loadbearing elements. Stairs.

Commentary
FRR of loadbearing elements is classified in accordance with BS EN 13501-2:2007, Fire
Classification of Construction Products and Building Elements – Classification using data
from fire resistance tests, excluding ventilation services.

Clause E3.2

The following British Standards will still be applicable until they are obsolete:
(a) BS 476: Part 20:1987, Fire tests on building materials and structures. Method for
determination of the fire resistance of elements of construction (general principles);
(b) BS 476: Part 21:1987, Fire tests on building materials and structures. Methods for
determination of the fire resistance of load bearing elements of construction.

149
Section 3 – Non-loadbearing Elements
Subsection E4 – Fire Tests for Non-loadbearing Elements

Clause E4.1

Composite walls involving plasterboard systems should be constructed in accordance with

the manufacturer’s specifications. The assembled products should be tested in accordance
with BS EN 1364-1:1999, Fire resistance tests for non-loadbearing elements. Walls to
demonstrate the required FRR.

Clause E4.2

Other materials used as fire barriers should be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer’s specifications and tested in accordance with an appropriate testing regime,
such as BS EN 1364-1:1999, Fire resistance tests for non-loadbearing elements. Walls.

Clause E4.3

Materials forming a ceiling that requires an FRR should be tested in accordance with BS EN
1364-2, Fire resistance tests for non-loadbearing elements. Ceilings.

Clause E4.4

False ceilings and elevated floors that require an FRR should be tested in accordance with
the following applicable standards:
(a) BS EN 1366-6:2004, Fire resistance tests for service installations. Raised access
and hollow core floors;
(b) BS EN 1364-2:1999, Fire resistance tests for non-loadbearing elements. Ceilings.

Clause E4.5

The following British Standards will still be applicable until they are obsolete:
BS 476 Part 22:1987, Fire tests on building materials and structures. Methods for
determination of the fire resistance of non-loadbearing elements of construction.

Commentary
False ceilings and elevated floors forming part of an air plenum should be non-
combustible – see Subsection E10.

150
Section 4 - Protection of Openings in Fire Barriers
Subsection E5 - Openings in Fire Barriers (Doors, Windows, Shutters and
associated Penetrations)

Clause E5.1

Elements that protect openings, such as doors, windows and fire shutters in fire barriers
should be tested in accordance with the following applicable standards to demonstrate the
required FRR (integrity and insulation as appropriate):
(a) BS EN 1634-1:2008, Fire resistance and smoke control tests for door, shutter and
openable window assemblies and elements of building hardware. Fire resistance
test for doors, shutters and openable windows;
(b) BS EN 1634-2:2008, Fire resistance tests for door, shutter and openable window
assemblies and elements of building hardware. Fire resistance characterisation test
for elements of building hardware;
(c) BS EN 1634-3:2004, Fire resistance and smoke control tests for door and shutter
assemblies, openable windows and elements of building hardware. Smoke control
test for door and shutter assemblies;
(d) BS EN 14600:2005, Doorsets and openable windows with fire resisting and/or
smoke control characteristics. Requirements and classification.

Commentary

The FRR of fire rated doors, fire shutters and openable windows designed for installation
within openings in vertical separating elements should be tested in accordance with BS EN
1634-1:2008. BS EN 1634-1:2008 sets out two options of maximum temperature rise
criteria for insulation. These options are based on the classification of thermal insulation
(Classification I1 or I2) and the classification shall be in accordance with BS EN 13501-
2:2007. The thermal criterion of Classification I1 is recommended for consistency with BS
476.

Clause E5.2

The following British Standards will still be applicable until they are obsolete:
(a) BS 476: Part 20:1987, Fire tests on building materials and structures. Method for
determination of the fire resistance of elements of construction (general principles);
(b) BS 476: Part 22:1987, Fire tests on building materials and structures. Methods for
determination of the fire resistance of non-load bearing elements of construction.

Clause E5.3

All tested fire rated doors, fire shutters and fire windows should be “tagged” or otherwise
labelled to ensure ease of identification.

151
Commentary
The FRR of elements to prevent fire spread through openings in fire barriers is classified in
accordance with BS EN 13501-2:2007, Fire classification of construction products and
building elements. Classification using data from fire resistance tests, excluding ventilation
services.
The performance for protected openings in fire barriers includes:
(a) Integrity – the ability of the element of construction that has a fire separating
function, to withstand fire exposure on one side only, without the transmission of fire
to the unexposed side as a result of the passage of flames or hot gases;
(b) Thermal insulation – the ability of the element of construction to withstand fire
exposure on one side only, without the transmission of fire as a result of significant
transfer of heat from the exposed side to the unexposed side. Transmission shall
be limited so that neither the unexposed surface nor any material in close proximity
to the surface is ignited;
(c) Radiation – the ability of the element of construction to withstand fire exposure on
one side only, so as to reduce the probability of the transmission of fire as a result
of significant radiated heat either through the element or from its unexposed surface
to adjacent materials;
(d) Self-closing – the ability of an open door to close fully into its frame and engage any
latching device that may be fitted, without human intervention, by stored energy, or
by mains power backed up by stored energy in case of power failure.

Subsection E6 - Openings in Fire Barriers (Ventilation Ducts and

associated Penetrations)

Clause E6.1

Elements that protect openings where ventilation ducts and the like penetrations in fire
barriers, such as seals, should be tested in accordance with the following applicable
standards to demonstrate the required FRR (integrity and insulation as appropriate):
(a) BS EN 1366-1:1999, Fire resistance tests for service installations. Fire resistance
tests for service installations. Ducts;
(b) BS EN 1366-8:2004, Fire resistance tests for service installations. Smoke extraction
ducts;
(c) BS EN1366-9:2008, Fire resistance tests for service installations. Single
compartment smoke extraction ducts.

Clause E6.2

The following British Standards will still be applicable until they are obsolete:
(a) BS 476: Part 20:1987, Fire tests on building materials and structures. Method for
determination of the fire resistance of elements of construction (general principles);
(b) BS 476: Part 24:1987, Fire tests on building materials and structures. Method for
determination of the fire resistance of ventilation ducts.

152
Subsection E7 - Openings in Fire Barriers (General Penetrations)

Clause E7.1

Penetration seals for electrical cables, plumbing and other services, should be tested in
accordance with the following applicable standards to demonstrate the required FRR
(integrity only):
(a) BS EN 1366-3:2009, Fire resistance tests for service installations. Penetration seals;

(b) BS EN 1366-4:2006, Fire resistance tests for service installations. Linear joint seals.

Clause E7.2

The following British Standards will still be applicable until they are obsolete:
(a) BS 476: Part 20:1987, Fire tests on building materials and structures. Method for
determination of the fire resistance of elements of construction (general principles);
(b) BS 476: Part 23:1987, Fire tests on building materials and structures. Methods for
determination of the contribution of components to the fire resistance of a structure.

Commentary
The same control on pipe penetrations applies to all pipes penetrating fire barriers,
irrespective of they are water-borne, their diameter or material of construction.

153
Subsection E8 - Fire and Smoke Dampers

Clause E8.1

Fire and smoke dampers in ventilation ducts should be tested in accordance with the
following applicable standards to demonstrate the required FRR (integrity only):
(a) BS EN 1366-2:1999, Fire resistance tests for service installations. Fire dampers;
(b) BS ISO 10294-1:1996, Fire-resistance tests. Fire dampers for air distribution
systems. Test method;
(c) BS ISO 10294-2:1999, Fire-resistance tests. Fire dampers for air distribution
systems. Classification, criteria and field of application of test results;
(d) BS ISO 10294-3:1999, Fire-resistance tests. Fire dampers for air distribution
systems. Guidance on the test method;
(e) BS ISO 10294-5:2005, Fire-resistance tests. Fire dampers for air distribution
systems. Intumescent fire dampers.

Clause E8.2

The following British Standards will still be applicable until they are obsolete:
(a) BS 476: Part 20:1987, Fire tests on building materials and structures. Method for
determination of the fire resistance of elements of construction (general principles);
(b) BS 476: Part 23:1987, Fire tests on building materials and structures. Methods for
determination of the contribution of components to the fire resistance of a structure.
(c) BS 476: Part 24:1987, Fire tests on building materials and structures. Method for
determination of the fire resistance of ventilation ducts.

Clause E8.3

All newly installed dampers should be inspected and certified by a registered specialist
contractor in the ventilation works category that the dampers are in safe and efficient
working order.

154
Subsection E9 – Smoke Leakage for Doors with Smoke Seal

Clause E9.1

Doors with smoke seal should be tested at ambient temperature and medium temperature
and demonstrated to comply with the smoke leakage rate criteria in accordance with the
following applicable standards:
(a) BS EN 1634-3:2004, Fire resistance and smoke control tests for door and shutter
assemblies, openable windows and elements of building hardware. Smoke control
test for door and shutter assemblies;
(b) BS EN 14600:2005, Doorsets and openable windows with fire resisting and/or
smoke control characteristics. Requirements and classification;
(c) ISO 5925-1:2007, Fire tests - Smoke-control door and shutter assemblies - Part 1:
Ambient- and medium-temperature leakage tests;
(d) UL 1784:2009, UL Standard for safety air leakage tests of door assemblies; or
(e) AS 1530:Part 7:2007, Methods for fire tests on building materials, components and
structures- Smoke control assemblies. Ambient and medium.

Clause E9.2

[Clause deleted.]

155
Section 5 – Non-combustibility
Subsection E10 – Non-combustibility

Clause E10.1

Any product that complies with one of the following is considered to be non-combustible:
(a) Class A1 in BS-EN 13501-1:2007, Fire classification of construction products and
building elements - Classification using data from reaction to fire tests. To satisfy
Class A1, the product should be tested in accordance with BS EN ISO 1182:2010,
Reaction to fire tests for products – Non-combustibility test and BS EN ISO
1716:2010, Reaction to fire tests for products. Determination of the gross heat of
combustion (calorific value);
(b) BS 476-4:1970, Fire tests on building materials and structures. Part 4: Non-
combustibility test for materials.

Commentary
Other appropriate non-combustibility tests include:
(a) AS 1530.1:1994, Methods for fire tests on building materials, components and
structures Part 1: Combustibility test for materials;
(b) ASTM E136–11, Standard test method for behavior of materials in a vertical tube
furnace at 750°C.

Clause E10.2

Save as provided in Clause E10.1, building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems should

comply with the minimum standard of Class A2-s1, d0 in BS-EN 13501-1:2007, Fire
classification of construction products and building elements - Classification using data from
reaction to fire tests. To satisfy Class A2-s1, d0, the BIPV should be tested in accordance
with BS EN ISO 1182:2010, Reaction to fire tests for products – Non-combustibility test or
BS EN ISO 1716:2010, Reaction to fire tests for products. Determination of the gross heat
of combustion (calorific value); and BS EN 13823:2010, Reaction to fire tests for building
products. Building products excluding floorings exposed to the thermal attack by a single
burning item.

Commentary
BIPV is the integration of solar power generating products into the building envelope,
serving both the functions of a building envelope and a power generator.
The combustibility requirements in this clause are specifically intended for external wall,
cladding, curtain wall or skylight constructed of or integrated with photovoltaic systems.
The requirements on provision of natural lighting should be observed for adoption of BIPV
systems in prescribed windows under Building (Planning) Regulations 30 and 31. In addition,
the requirement of visible light transmittance should be observed as appropriate under
PNAP APP-156 and the Guidelines on Design and Construction Requirements for Energy
Efficiency of Residential Buildings.

156
In respect of electricity safety, the design, installation, operation and maintenance of BIPV
systems and associated components including junction box, wiring, switch board, etc.
should comply with the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department’s requirements.

Subsection E11- Limited Combustibility

Clause E11.1

Materials of limited combustibility should comply with the minimum standard of Class A2-s3,
d2 in BS EN 13501-1:2007, Fire classification of construction products and building
elements, Part 1 – Classification using data from reaction to fire tests. To satisfy Class A2-
s3, d2, the materials should be tested in accordance with BS EN ISO 1182: 2010, Reaction
to fire tests for products – Non-combustibility test or BS EN ISO 1716:2010, Reaction to fire
tests for products. Determination of the gross heat of combustion (calorific value); and BS
EN 13823:2010, Reaction to fire tests for building products. Building products excluding
floorings exposed to the thermal attack by a single burning item.

Commentary
The European classifications are developed through a suite of fire tests. Building elements
except flooring, are classified as A1, A2, B, C, D, E or F (with A1 being the highest
performance and F being the lowest) in accordance with BS EN 13501-1:2007, Fire
classification of construction products and building elements, Classification using data from
reaction to fire tests.

The relevant fire tests are:

(a) BS EN ISO 1182:2010, Reaction to fire tests for products. Non-combustibility test;
(b) BS EN ISO 1716:2010, Reaction to fire tests for products. Determination of the
gross heat of combustion (calorific value);
(c) BS EN 13823:2010, Reaction to fire tests for building products. Building products
excluding floorings exposed to the thermal attack by a single burning item;
(d) BS EN ISO 11925-2:2010, Reaction to fire tests. Ignitability of building products
subjected to direct impingement of flame. Single-flame source test;
(e) BS EN 13238:2010, Reaction to fire tests for building products. Conditioning
procedures and general rules for selection of substrates.
The European test methods are based on performance in the ISO 9705, Room Corner Test.
Products tested in accordance with the room corner test (ISO 9705), in tandem with the
Cone Calorimeter (ISO 5660-1) are acceptable.

157
Table E1 is the comparison of classification of fire performance of materials tested in
accordance with BS EN 13501-1:2007 and BS 476: Parts 4 and 7.

Table E1 - European Classes on Reaction to Fire Performance

European British Standard Equivalent
Classification

A1 Non-combustible

A2 Limited combustibility

B 0

C 1

D 3

E 4

F Unclassifiable or no performance determined

158
Subsection E12 - External Facades

Clause E12.1

External facades should be tested in accordance with the following applicable standards:
(a) BS EN 1364-3:2006, Fire resistance tests for non-loadbearing elements. Curtain
walling. Full configuration (complete assembly);
(b) BS EN 1364-4:2007, Fire resistance tests for non-loadbearing elements. Curtain
walling. Part configuration.

Commentary

There are other options for testing of facades, including:

(a) Large scale testing:
(i) NFPA285:2006, Standard fire test method for evaluation of fire propagation
characteristics of exterior non-loadbearing wall assemblies containing
combustible components;
(ii) ULC-S134-92, Fire test of exterior wall assemblies (Vertical channel test).

(b) Small scale testing:

(i) ULC-S134-92, Fire test of exterior wall assemblies (Vertical channel test);
(ii) AS 1530.1:1994, Methods for fire tests on building materials, components
and structures Part 1: combustibility test for materials.

Subsection E13 – Linings of Internal Wall and Ceiling and Decorative

Finishes

Clause E13.1

Linings of internal wall and ceiling and decorative finishes in the following Use
Classifications should comply with the following when tested in accordance with BS EN
13501-1:2007:
(a) All Use Classifications – within protected exits, Classification C of Table E1;
(b) Use Classification 3 – general accommodations (including corridors, circulation
spaces and rooms) that are not forming the protected exit, Classification B or above
of Table E1;
(c) Use Classification 5a – within cinemas, auditoria and theatres, Classification C or
above of Table E1;
When tested in accordance with the British Standards, the performance should meet the
equivalent European classification in Table E1.

159
Clause E13.2

For compliance with Clause E13.1, the linings and finishes should be tested in accordance
with the following applicable standards:
(a) BS EN ISO 1182:2010, Reaction to fire tests for products. Non-combustibility test;
(b) BS EN ISO 1716:2010, Reaction to fire tests for products. Determination of the
gross heat of combustion (calorific value);
(c) BS EN 13823:2010, Reaction to fire tests for building products. Building products
excluding floorings exposed to the thermal attack by a single burning item;
(d) BS EN ISO 11925-2:2010, Reaction to fire tests. Ignitability of building products
subjected to direct impingement of flame. Single-flame source test.

Clause E13.3

The following British Standards will still be applicable until they are obsolete:
(a) BS 476-4:1970, Fire tests on building materials and structures. Part 4: Non-
combustibility test for materials.
(b) BS 476 Part 6:1989, Fire tests on building materials and structures - Method of test
for fire propagation for products;
(c) BS 476 Part 7:1997, Fire tests on building materials and structures - Method of test
to determine the classification of the surface spread of flame of products.

Commentary
Decorative finishes are materials that are fixed to walls and ceilings. For cinemas and
theatres only, decorative finishes also include seat linings.
There is another option for testing of linings: NFPA 265: 2011, Standard methods of fire
tests for evaluating room fire growth contribution of textile coverings on full height panels
and walls.

160
Subsection E14 - Linings and Coverings of Floors

Clause E14.1

Linings and coverings of floors should comply with the following when tested in accordance
with BS EN 13501-1:2007:
(a) All Use Classifications – within protected exits, Classification C of Table E1;
(b) Use Classification 3 – general accommodation (including corridors, circulation
spaces and rooms) that are not forming the protected exit, Classification B or above
of Table E1;
(c) Use Classification 5a – within cinemas, auditoria and theatres, Classification C or
above of Table E1.
When tested in accordance with the British Standards, the performance should meet the
equivalent European classification in Table E1.

Clause E14.2

For compliance with Clause E14.1, the linings and coverings of floors should be tested in
accordance with the following applicable standards:

(a) BS EN ISO 1182:2010, Reaction to fire tests for products. Non-combustibility test;
(b) BS EN ISO 1716:2010, Reaction to fire tests for products. Determination of the
gross heat of combustion (calorific value);
(c) BS EN ISO 9239-1:2010, Reaction to fire tests for floorings. Determination of the
burning behaviour using a radiant heat source;
(d) BS EN ISO 11925-2:2010, Reaction to fire tests. Ignitability of building products
subjected to direct impingement of flame. Single-flame source test.

Clause E14.3

Other small scale tests may also be applicable:

(a) BS 4790:1987, Determination of the effects of a small source of ignition on textile
floor coverings (hot metal nut method);
(b) BS 6307:1982, ISO 6925-1982, Method for determination of the effects of a small
source of ignition on textile floor coverings (methenamine tablet test).

Commentary
Whilst a floor is not usually the prime vehicle for fire spread, the contribution of floor
coverings such as carpets to fire spread can be significant. The Flooring Radiant Panel
represents the exposure of a carpet or other floor covering to a nearby fire, and measures
the propensity of the floor covering to be an agent of flame spread over flat floors (in the
absence of significant air flow). The Hot Nut Test (BS 4790) and the Methenamine Pill Test
(BS 6307, ISO 6925) represent small ignition sources falling on a carpet in the absence of
any external radiation.

161
Subsection E15 - Acoustic and Thermal Insulation

Clause E15.1

Acoustic and thermal insulation in ductings and concealed locations should be tested in
accordance with the following applicable standards:
(a) BS EN ISO 1182:2010, Reaction to fire tests for products. Non-combustibility test;
(b) BS EN ISO 1716:2010, Reaction to fire tests for products. Determination of the
gross heat of combustion (calorific value);
(c) BS EN 13823:2010, Reaction to fire tests for building products. Building products
excluding flooring exposed to the thermal attack by a single burning item;
(d) EN ISO 11925-2:2010, Reaction to fire tests. Ignitability of building products
subjected to direct impingement of flame. Single-flame source test;
(e) BS EN 13501-1:2007, Fire classification of construction products and building
elements. Classification using data from reaction to fire tests.

Clause E15.2

The following British Standards will still be applicable until they are obsolete:
(a) BS 476-4:1970, Fire tests on building materials and structures. Part 4: Non-
combustibility test for materials;
(b) BS 476 Part 6:1989, Fire tests on building materials and structures. Method of test
for fire propagation for products;
(c) BS 476 Part 7:1997, Fire tests on building materials and structures. Method of test
to determine the classification of the surface spread of flame of products.

162
Section 6 – Fire Testing Authorities
Subsection E16 - Criteria for Choosing Testing Authorities

Clause E16.1

The Building Authority will recognize the laboratories accredited by the Hong Kong
Accreditation Services (HKAS) under the Hong Kong Laboratory Accreditation Scheme
(HOKLAS) or other laboratory accreditation bodies which have reached mutual recognition
agreements with HOKLAS. The Building Authority will also recognize the certification
bodies accredited by HKAS under the Hong Kong Certification Body Accreditation Scheme
(HKCAS) or other accredited certification bodies which have reached multilateral recognition
arrangements with HKCAS.

Clause E16.2

The fire properties of materials, products or construction components should be tested in

accordance with or assessed against the standards stipulated in this Part and certified as
being capable of achieving such fire properties to the satisfaction of the Building Authority.
Such certification should be established by:
(a) a test report prepared by a recognized laboratory. The test should be within the
accredited scope for testing of the laboratory; or
(b) an assessment report prepared by a recognized laboratory or certification body. The
subject category or type of the materials, products or components of the assessment
should be within the accredited scope for testing or certification by the laboratory or
the certification body.

163
Section 7 – Durability
Subsection E17 - Laminated or Multi-laminated Glass Assemblies for Structural
Use

Clause E17.1

Glass requiring an FRR commonly uses a clear intumescent interlayer “gel” in a laminated
or multi-laminated glass assembly. Such laminated glass should be tested in accordance
with BS EN ISO 12543, Glass in building – Laminated glass and laminated safety glass.

164
Reference – List of Tables
1. The FRR of the standard of construction and building materials are set out in the
following Tables for reference.

2. In this List :

“gypsum plaster” means gypsum building plaster complying with BS EN 13279;

“gypsum plaster board” means gypsum plaster board complying with BS EN 520.

3. The List contains:

Table E2 on Walls Constructed Wholly of Non-combustible Materials

Table E3 on Walls not Constructed Wholly of Non-combustible Materials
Table E4 on Floors and Landings

Table E5 on Steel Columns and Beams

Table E6 on Reinforced Concrete Columns and Beams
Table E7 on Stairs

165
 TABLE E2

WALLS CONSTRUCTED WHOLLY OF NON-COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS

Minimum thickness in mm
(excluding plaster)
Construction and Materials for FRR of

240 mins 120 mins 60 mins

SOLID CONSTRUCTION

Solid bricks of clay, concrete or sand lime without plaster 225 225* 100

Reinforced concrete -

(a) containing not less than 1 per cent of vertical 180 100 75
reinforcement

Concrete cover to main reinforcement 25 25 15

(b) containing less than 1 per cent of vertical reinforcement 240 160 120

Concrete cover to main reinforcement 25 25 25

HOLLOW BLOCK CONSTRUCTION

Clay blocks (outer web not less than 13mm thick) of 2 cells not less 100 100
than 50 per cent solid finished with 13mm gypsum plaster on each
side

Concrete blocks of one cell in wall thickness not less than 50 per 190
cent solid finished with 13mm gypsum plaster on each side

* Where finished with 13mm gypsum plaster on each side, the thickness may be reduced to 100mm.

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 TABLE E3

WALLS NOT CONSTRUCTED WHOLLY

OF NON-COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS

Minimum thickness of
finish in mm on
Construction and Materials each face for FRR of

120 mins 60 mins

SOLID CONSTRUCTION

Wood wool slabs – complying with BS EN 13168 -

(a) 50mm minimum thickness with gypsum plaster finish 13

(b) 75mm minimum thickness with gypsum plaster finish 13 6

Gypsum plaster board in cores not less than 19mm thick in section not 10
more than 1.2m wide supported top, bottom and sides in steel channels
or a timber framework, with gypsum plaster finish

HOLLOW CONSTRUCTION

Steel or timber framing with facings on each side of -

(a) Portland cement plaster, Portland cement-lime plaster or gypsum 19

plaster on metal lathing

(b) 2 layers of 10mm thick gypsum plaster board with gypsum plaster Nil
finish

(c) 13mm thick gypsum plaster board with gypsum plaster finish 6

(d) 19mm thick gypsum plaster board with gypsum plaster finish Nil

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 TABLE E4

FLOORS AND LANDINGS

Minimum thickness in mm
for FRR of
Construction and Materials
240 mins 120 mins 60 mins
SOLID REINFORCED CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION

Thickness of concrete 170 125 100

Concrete cover to all reinforcement -

simply supported 55* 35 20

continuous 45* 25 20

SOLID PRESTRESSED CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION

Depth including screed 170 125 100

Concrete cover to all reinforcement -

simply supported 65* 40 25

continuous 55* 35 20

* Reinforcement consisting of expanded metal lath or a wire fabric not lighter than 0.5kg/m2 with 2mm
diameter wire at not more than 100mm centres or a continuous arrangement of links at not more than
200mm centres should be incorporated in the concrete cover at a distance not exceeding 20mm from
the face.

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 TABLE E5

STEEL COLUMNS AND BEAMS

Minimum thickness of
protection in mm
Construction and Materials for FRR of

240 mins 120 mins 60 mins

SOLID PROTECTION
Columns and hangers (mass per metre not less than 45kg)
(a) Concrete not inferior to Grade 20 and reinforced in accordance with 75 50 50
the Code of Practice for the Structural Use of Steel
(b) Solid bricks of clay, concrete or sand lime 75 50 50
Beams (mass per metre not less than 30 kg)
Concrete not inferior to Grade 20 and reinforced in accordance with the 75 50 50
Code of Practice for the Structural Use of Steel
HOLLOW PROTECTION
Columns and hangers (mass per metre not less than 45kg)
(a) Solid bricks of clay, concrete or sand lime reinforced in every 115 50 50
horizontal joint with steel binding wire not less than 2.5mm in
thickness or steel mesh weighing not less than 0.5kg/m2.
(b) Portland cement plaster, Portland cement-lime plaster or gypsum 19
plaster on metal lathing.
(c) Gypsum plaster on 10mm gypsum plaster board with 1.6mm 13
diameter wire binding at 100mm pitch
(d) Gypsum plaster on 19mm gypsum plaster board with 1.6mm 13 7
diameter wire binding at 100mm pitch
Beams (mass per metre not less than 30kg)
(a) Portland cement plaster or Portland cement-lime plaster on metal 19
lathing
(b) Gypsum plaster on metal lathing 22 16
(c) Gypsum plaster on 10mm gypsum plaster board with 1.6mm 13
diameter wire binding at 100mm pitch
(d) Gypsum plaster on 19mm gypsum plaster board with 1.6mm 13 7
diameter wire binding at 100mm pitch

In this Table –

“hollow protection” means there is a void between the protective material and the web of the steel section,
such hollow protection to columns should be effectively sealed at each floor level.

“solid protection” means casing which is bedded close to the steel without any intervening cavities and
with all joints in that casing made full and solid.

169
 TABLE E6

REINFORCED CONCRETE COLUMNS AND BEAMS

Minimum overall size of

column in mm for FRR of
Construction and Materials
240 mins 120 mins 60 mins
REINFORCED CONCRETE COLUMNS AND HANGERS

(a) Fully exposed columns and hangers 450 300 200

Concrete cover to main reinforcement 35 35 25

(b) 50 per cent exposed of columns and hangers 350 200 160

Concrete cover to main reinforcement 35 25 25

(c) One face exposed of columns and hangers 240 160 120

Concrete cover to main reinforcement 25 25 25

REINFORCED CONCRETE BEAMS

Width of beam 280 200 200

Concrete cover to main reinforcement -

simply supported 80* 50* 30

continuous 60* 40 30

PRESTRESSED CONCRETE BEAMS

Width of beam 280 200 200

Concrete cover to tendons -

simply supported 90* 70* 30

* Reinforcement consisting of expanded metal lath or a wire fabric not lighter than 0.5kg/m2 with 2mm
diameter wire at not more than 100mm centres or a continuous arrangement of links at not more than
200mm centres should be incorporated in the concrete cover at a distance not exceeding 20mm from
the face.

170
 TABLE E7

STAIRS

Minimum thickness in mm for

FRR of
Construction and Materials
240 mins 120 mins 60 mins
Reinforced concrete construction -

Thickness at waist of slab 170 125 95

Concrete cover to all reinforcement 55* 35 20

* Reinforcement consisting of expanded metal lath or a wire fabric not lighter than 0.5kg/m2 with 2mm
diameter wire at not more than 100mm centres or a continuous arrangement of links at not more than
200mm centres should be incorporated in the concrete cover at a distance not exceeding 20mm from
the face.

171
 Part F
Fire Safety Management

This Part contains five Sections:

• Section 1 – General
• Section 2 – Fire Safety Management
• Section 3 – Maintenance Plan
• Section 4 – Training Plan
• Section 5 – Fire Action Plan
• Appendix F1 – Sample Checklist on Housekeeping

172
Section 1 – General
Subsection F1 – Use of this Part

Clause F1.1

This Part provides guidelines for managing and maintaining the fire safety provisions of
buildings and should be read in conjunction with all other Parts in this Code.

Commentary
Management and maintenance of fire safety provisions are important as it is necessary to
assure that the fire safety provisions installed can operate effectively for the intended life of
the building.
Effective fire safety management can reduce potential fire danger, assist occupants to reach
the ultimate place of safety in case of fire and regular maintenance will ensure all fire safety
provisions in the building can be kept in good workable conditions. Of particular concern is
the existence of unauthorized building works (UBW) affecting the fire safety of the
occupants.

Subsection F2 – Performance Requirements for Fire Safety Management

Clause F2.1

Performance Requirements for the maintenance and management of fire safety provisions
are stipulated in Subsection A11 of Part A.

Subsection F3 – Scope

Clause F3.1

This Part is applicable to all Use Classifications in Table A1 of Part A.

173
Commentary
Maintenance and management of fire safety provisions should be carried out through the
following means:
(a) Passive fire safety provisions at common parts should be inspected and repaired
under the Buildings Ordinance (Cap. 123).
(b) Active fire safety provisions should be inspected, tested and maintained by
registered fire service installation contractors under the Fire Service (Installations
and Equipment) Regulations (Cap. 95B).
(c) Ventilating systems should be inspected by registered specialist contractor
(ventilation works) under the Building (Ventilating Systems) Regulations (Cap. 123J).
(d) Competent persons, e.g. authorized persons, should be commissioned by the
building owners to carry out inspections, maintenance and certification of fire safety
provisions.
(e) Checklist on housekeeping (sample at Table F1) should be provided to guide the
carrying out of routine maintenance works on passive fire safety provisions and the
rectification of any irregularities identified. Such guidelines would enhance the
owners’ awareness on fire safety and are effective means on fire safety
management for buildings.
A competent person should be responsible for carrying out inspections, making
recommendation on maintenance and repair works and ensuring the appropriate
contractors have completed the necessary maintenance and repair works for fire safety
provisions in compliance with the relevant statutory requirements.
Building owners (or Owners’ Corporation) should engage a competent person to coordinate
all maintenance and repair works. The competent person should also be responsible for:

(a) Documenting all fire safety provisions within the building.

(b) Documenting the period of inspections, testing and replacement, as appropriate.

(c) Checking the record keeping of maintenance actions.

(d) Checking that the actions in fire safety management plan are undertaken.

(e) Checking the period of maintenance and repairs.

(f) Allowing all documentation to be checked by relevant authority, when required.

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Section 2 - Fire Safety Management
Subsection F4 - Fire Safety Management

Clause F4.1

Fire safety management should be carried out at regular intervals through routine
inspections and maintenance of fire safety provisions for rectifying any identified
irregularities. The following guidelines on fire safety management are advisory in nature.
However, where fire engineering approach is adopted in fire safety design of a building, the
submission of an FSAR for an Alternative Solution may require the support of a fire safety
management plan which will then form part of the approved general building plans.
Compliance with the fire safety management plan will also be imposed as a condition when
granting modification under section 42 of the Buildings Ordinance for not meeting the
relevant requirements laid down in Building (Planning) Regulations 41(1), 41A, 41B, 41C,
41D and section 35 of the Building (Construction) Regulation.

Clause F4.2

To ensure effectiveness, fire safety management should be implemented through the

documentation and implementation of a fire safety management plan, as required in Clause
F4.5.
The authorized person should assist in compiling the fire safety management plan. For
example, the authorized person should advise the developer/owner/the future management
office to gather a set of approved general building plans (with exit routes highlighted), the
fire service installations plans and any relevant documents of the fire safety provisions
installed from relevant authorities, for incorporating into the fire safety management plan.
The management office and the Owners’ Corporation should keep the fire safety
management plan in the management office and to ensure that the management
procedures stated in the fire safety management plan are implemented effectively, for
example, conducting regular inspection and maintenance of fire rated doors, conducting
regular fire drill, providing training to the management staff on how to use fire hose reels
and fire extinguishers etc.

Clause F4.3

Where fire engineering approach is adopted for fire safety design of a building, the
authorized person should ensure that the Bounding Conditions (to be included as part of the
general building plans) and a copy of the final FSAR adopted are included in the fire safety
management plan.
The Bounding Conditions listed in the approved general building plans should be included in
the Deed of Mutual Covenant (DMC), where applicable, to ensure compliance.

175
Clause F4.4

The fire safety management plan and the Bounding Conditions (applicable when adopting
fire engineering approach in building design), should be observed during the life of a
building. Periodic review and audit to the procedures stated in the fire safety management
plan should be conducted for ensuring the adequacy of the existing fire safety provisions for
accommodating any new changes occurred in the building. All the records of building
alterations should be included in the fire safety management plan.

Clause F4.5

The fire safety management plan should include the following:

(a) maintenance plan,

(b) training plan, and

(c) fire action plan
as detailed in Sections 3, 4 and 5 respectively.

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Section 3 – Maintenance Plan
Subsection F5 – Maintenance Plan

Clause F5.1

The maintenance plan should include the following documents and information:

(a) Approved general building plans with the exit routes highlighted;
(b) Documents indicating the details/specifications of the fire safety provisions installed;
(c) Period for regular maintenance of the fire safety provisions installed;
(d) Method statements for maintenance;
(e) Repair methods;
(f) Records of maintenance or repair works carried out;
(g) Housekeeping; and
(h) A copy of the final FSAR, if any.

Clause F5.2

Inspection to fire safety provisions should be conducted by competent person or registered

fire service installation contractors at regular intervals. The competent person should
assess the conditions of the fire safety provisions and make recommendations on the
maintenance or repair works.

Clause F5.3

Maintenance of active fire safety provisions, which include installations and equipment,
should comply with the requirements in the Code of Practice for Inspection, Testing and
Maintenance of Installations and Equipment.

Clause F5.4

UBW will affect the fire safety provisions of buildings and may cause fatal consequences
endangering the safety of the occupants. Before carrying out any building works or change
in use of a building, building professionals should be consulted.

Commentary
Regular inspections can identify any UBW, changes in use, alterations and other issues
such as blocking of exit routes, which may affect the fire safety of the building. Immediate
and appropriate action must be taken to ensure all fire safety provisions are maintained
properly and are effective in case of emergency.
Besides the enforcement actions that can be taken under the Buildings Ordinance (Cap.
123), there are other legislations that can be enforced by other departments to rectify the
irregularities. For example:
(a) Under the Fire Services (Fire Hazard Abatement) Regulation (Cap. 95F), it is an
offence to block exit routes, such as obstructing or locking the “means of escape”.
Apart from issuing a fire hazard abatement notice to the responsible person, who
may be the building owner, tenant, occupier or person in charge of the premises,

177
 the Director of Fire Services may institute direct prosecution against the person
concerned.
(b) As defined in the Fire Services (Fire Hazard Abatement) Regulation (Cap. 95F),
“means of escape” means such means of escape as may be required for the safety
of persons having regard to the use or intended use of the premises. Hence, the
Fire Services Department requires all building exit door(s) including any door or
gate erected at the section of a common staircase between the topmost floor and
the roof to be readily and conveniently openable from the staircase side without the
use of a key.
(c) Under the Fire Service (Installations and Equipment) Regulations (Cap. 95B) 7(1)
and 9(1), only a registered contractor who satisfies the requirements under
regulation 3A of the Fire Service (Installation Contractors) Regulations (Cap. 95A),
should maintain, inspect or repair; and should issue maintenance certificate for any
fire service installation.
(d) The Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance (Cap. 509) requires the provision of
a safe environment for building occupants. It states the responsibilities of employers
and occupiers of premises to contribute to safety and health in the workplaces
including fire precautions, by providing good maintenance for means of escape and
other fire safety measures.
(e) The Education Regulation (Cap. 279A) 38 requires fire drill to be carried out at least
once every 6 months for all schools. The written record of all such drills should be
documented in a school log book.

Clause F5.5

Good housekeeping should be maintained to reduce the chances of fire and blockage of
exit routes and temporary refuge spaces. Housekeeping methods include methods for
proper waste disposal, keeping combustible materials from possible ignition sources and
ensuring exit routes and temporary refuge spaces are free from obstruction etc. A sample
checklist is given in Table F1 for reference.

Clause F5.6

When carrying out alteration, additions, renovation and repair works, the following items
should be observed:
(a) All means of escape should be maintained at all times. It should be free from
obstruction and adequately signed and lit.
(b) All fire rated doors along exit routes should be maintained and kept closed at all
times.
(c) All fire barriers should be maintained.
(d) Alternative measures for ensuring adequate standard of fire safety should be
provided if any means of escape, fire rated doors or fire barriers etc. have to be
temporarily removed.
(e) Flame-retardant sheetings should be used for covering the scaffoldings erected
around the building.

178
 (f) Any inflammable and combustible materials to be kept in the building should be
stored under safe custody and avoid accumulating excessive quantity. Attention is
drawn to the Dangerous Goods Ordinance and Regulations (Cap. 295).
(g) All relevant notifications to the Fire Services Department regarding temporary shut-
down of fire service installations should be made in accordance with the Fire
Services Department’s requirements.
(h) First-aid and firefighting equipment should be located where it is readily accessible.
Training should be provided to all workers on the operation of the equipment.
(i) Emergency plan should be established and appropriate training should be provided
to all workers.
The above requirements should be observed and brought to the attention of all concerned in
carrying out alteration, additions, renovation and repair works under their supervision.

Clause F5.7

For maintenance or replacement works of lift installations, the integrity of liftwells should be
protected in order to inhibit the spread of fire between fire compartments through the
liftwells and openings. The following fire safety requirements should be complied with:

(a) Subject to (b) below, all landing doors should remain in a closed position in the
course of maintenance or replacement works of lift installations.

(b) Where landing doors need to be kept open for the works, normally no more than
one such door in a liftwell should be in an opened position at any one time. The
door opening, other than the one at which the lift car is levelled with the floor
landing, is to be attended by lift workers. If the works necessitate more than one
door in a liftwell to be opened at the same time, the following additional conditions
should be observed :

(i) the maximum number of landing doors to be kept open at the same time
is three; and

(ii) no hot works or welding operations will be carried out.

(c) Where landing doors are to be taken down, removal of more than one landing
doors in a liftwell at any one time should be avoided.

(d) If more than one landing door is to be removed at any one time, the door openings
should be protected by temporary hoarding having an FRR of not less than -/120/- .

(e) Openings in the hoarding are not allowed except small openings for ventilation of
the liftwell and access doors to the liftwell.

(f) Each ventilation opening should not exceed 5,500mm2 in area and should be
located at the upper portion of the hoarding. The number of such openings should
be limited to two per liftway, subject to a maximum of four in the hoarding.

(g) Access door in the hoarding should have an FRR of not less than that of the
hoarding. Such door should be self-closing and provided with locking device to
prevent trespassing. The locking device should be so arranged that it can be
readily opened from the inside without the use of a key.

(h) Temporary hoarding to enclose a liftwell should not be erected to cause, as far as
reasonably practicable, any obstruction or reduction in the width of any exit route.

179
 (i) Any temporary works including scaffoldings, formworks, plankings and struttings
etc. erected inside a liftwell during maintenance or replacement works should be
constructed of non-combustible materials.

(j) Arrangements should be made to ensure that all temporary openings during
maintenance or replacement works are protected by either having all opened lift
landing doors returned to the closed position or enclosing such openings properly
with fire resisting hoarding before leaving any unfinished works unattended during
lunch breaks or at the end of a day’s work.

The above requirements should be observed and brought to the attention of all concerned in
carrying out maintenance or replacement works of the lift installations under their
supervision.

Clause F5.8

If open kitchens in flats are provided in accordance with Clause C13.4, the following
conditions should be incorporated into the fire safety management plan and DMC, where
applicable, to ensure the implementation and operation of the following fire safety provisions:
(a) Smoke detectors provided inside the flats and at the common lobby outside the flats
should not be removed or obstructed;
(b) Sprinkler head provided at the ceiling immediately above the open kitchen should
not be removed or obstructed;
(c) The full height wall having an FRR of not less than -/30/30 adjacent to the flat exit
door should not be removed; and
(d) The fire service installations in (a) and (b) above should be subject to annual check
conducted by the management's registered fire service installation contractor.
The management office should assist the owners to carry out annual maintenance of the fire
service installations and submit the maintenance certificate to the Fire Services Department.
The owners should allow access for the registered fire service installation contractors to
carry out annual check and maintenance.

180
Section 4 –Training Plan
Subsection F6 –Training Plan

Clause F6.1

Proper and adequate training should be provided to staff for ensuring that they are familiar
with the fire safety provisions installed and the actions to be taken in case of fire. For
example, the familiarization with the exit routes, evacuation procedures for guiding
occupants to the ultimate place of safety in case of fire and use of firefighting equipment etc.

Clause F6.2

The training plan should include descriptions of staff duties on routine inspection and their
duties in case of fire, regular staff training programme, staff training records etc. Fire
wardens should be appointed for managing evacuation in case of fire.

Clause F6.3

Fire drills and fire safety seminars should be conducted at regular intervals for staff and the
occupants, including persons with a disability.

Commentary
A fire drill is a method of practicing the evacuation of a building in case of fire in which the
management staff can also identify and remedy the need and problems with the evacuation
procedures for the occupants including persons with a disability.

Occupant Training
Tall building evacuation requires not only building elements such as refuge floors, but also
requires managed evacuation strategies and training for all occupants.
A key aspect for consideration is whether occupants on upper floors are expected to
evacuate to the street level. The training provided to occupants will affect how they will react
in a fire or other emergency situation.
Some building occupants may have a perception that they will never have to walk down to
the street level in a fire emergency and may just need to stay at the nearest refuge floor.
This may result in blockage at refuge floors, as occupants may wait at the refuge floor and
not move any further. To overcome this potential blockage of occupants at refuge floors, fire
wardens should ensure the occupants do not remain on the refuge floors causing blockage.
This is particularly important if whole building is to be evacuated.
Occupants and staff should be trained by regular fire drills to familiarise themselves with the
procedure of emergency evacuation in the fire action plan.

181
Section 5 – Fire Action Plan
Subsection F7 – Fire Action Plan

Clause F7.1

Fire action plan should be formulated to establish the procedures to be taken in case of fire.
For example, report the fire to the Fire Services Department by dialling 999, inform the
occupants and assist them to escape to the ultimate place of safety etc. It may include any
contingency plan or evacuation plan.

Clause F7.2

The fire action plan should include the evacuation procedures for persons with a disability.
Where temporary refuge spaces have been provided, their locations should be illustrated in
the evacuation plan. If the safety condition permits, management staff should be
maintained in the management office for communicating with any person waiting for rescue
in the temporary refuge spaces and inform the firefighters of the locations of the temporary
refuge spaces where people are waiting for rescue.

182
Appendix F1 – Sample Checklist on Housekeeping
Table F1 provides a sample checklist on housekeeping. It provides general guidelines and
suggested actions that should be taken for the upkeep of fire safety provisions installed in a
building. The list is not exhaustive.

Table F1: Sample Checklist on Housekeeping

Items Action Yes No N/A Follow-up

Action
1 - Means of Escape

1.1 Exit routes are free from obstructions at all times.

1.2 No unauthorized alteration(s) along the exit route.
1.3 Metal gate or roller shutter is not installed across
the exit routes.
1.4 Doors or gates within common areas are readily
openable from the inside without the use of a key.
1.5 Doors or gates do not swing onto the exit routes
reducing the effective width of the exit routes.
1.6 Fire rated doors are self-closing and be kept
closed at all times.
1.7 Combustible linings are not installed within the
exit routes.
1.8 Adequate lighting is provided for the exit routes
and is kept in good condition.
1.9 Adequate signs are provided along the exit routes.
1.10 The balustrades and handrails in the required
staircases and along the exit routes are
maintained in good condition.
1.11 Any hold-open devices to all fire rated doors are
tested for ensuring they are in good condition.
(Particular attention is given to check any
obstructions nearby the fire rated doors that are
held open by hold-open devices in normal times.)
1.12 All temporary refuge spaces are free from
obstruction.
1.13 Closed-circuit television and intercom link for the
temporary refuge spaces are kept in good
condition.
2 - Fire Resisting Construction

2.1 Fire rated doors for protected exits, fireman’s lift

lobbies, required staircases, plants rooms etc. are
kept in good condition including the ironmongeries
and glazed panels, if any.

183
Items Action Yes No N/A Follow-up
Action
2.2 Fire rated doors and doors with smoke seal are
kept in the closed position.
2.3 Fire rated doors and doors with smoked seal have
not been removed or replaced by doors of lower
FRR than the approved ones.
2.4 No unauthorized alteration(s) have been made to
the fire resisting constructions.
2.5 Fire barriers are kept in good condition and free of
unprotected openings. The FRR is maintained.
2.6 Non-emergency services such as electric cables
and similar installations in required staircases are
adequately enclosed by fire barriers. The fire
barriers are kept in good condition. All access
panels are kept in closed position.
2.7 No unauthorized openings are formed in protected
exits, in particular required staircase walls.
2.8 No penetrations are made through a fixed light.
2.9 Fire shutters are not obstructed.
2.10 Vision panels to fire rated doors remain intact.
2.11 Penetrations within fire barriers are sealed with
fire seals or fire stops.
2.12 No exhaust fans, air-conditioning units or similar
installations are installed in a protected exits, in
particular required staircases.
2.13 Smoke vents at basement and their outlets are
not obstructed / blocked. Basement smoke
extraction system is regularly inspected and
checked by registered fire service installation
contractor.
3 – Access for Firefighting and Rescue

3.1 Access to fireman’s lifts is unimpeded from the

street.
3.2 The walls of fireman’s lift lobby are kept in good
condition and free of unprotected openings. The
FRR is maintained.
3.3 EVA is free from obstructions and is kept in good
condition.
4 – Others

4.1 No change in Use Classification that may have

fire safety implications.
4.2 If open kitchens are provided, smoke detectors,
sprinkler, other active fire safety provisions
installed are not obstructed and can function

184
 Items Action Yes No N/A Follow-up
Action
properly. The fire rated wall adjacent to the flat
exit door remains intact.
4.3 Fire safety seminars and fire drills are organized
regularly.
4.4 Electrical installations in the building are inspected
and checked by registered electrical contractors
regularly.
4.5 Appropriate fire safety precautionary works are
provided when carrying out alterations, additions
and repair works2.

Notes:

1. N/A means “Not applicable”.

2. When carrying out alterations, additions and repair works, appropriate fire safety
precautionary works should be provided in accordance with Clause F5.6 or F5.7, as the
case may be. Specific checklist should be formulated based on these two clauses for
ensuring the fire safety of the occupants.

185
 Part G
Guidelines on Fire
Engineering

This Part contains ten Sections:

• Section 1 – Introduction
• Section 2 – Framework for Fire Engineering
• Section 3 – Introduction to Fire Engineering
• Section 4 – Methodologies of Fire Engineering
• Section 5 – Fire Safety Sub-systems
• Section 6 – Design by Fire Engineering
• Section 7 – Fire Safety Assessment Report
• Section 8 – Bounding Conditions
• Section 9 – Computer Models
• Section 10 – References

186
Section 1 - Introduction
Clause G1.1 Use of this Part

The Guidelines in this Part are developed to:

(a) provide guidance for complying with the fire safety objectives in the Buildings
Ordinance and the Performance Requirements stipulated in Part A; and
(b) provide a framework for fire engineering to develop an Alternative Solution.

Clause G1.2 Objectives of this Part

The objectives of this Part are to:

(a) provide guidance for the process of applying fire engineering for fire safety design in
buildings; and
(b) provide guidance on the available methodologies on conducting fire engineering.

Clause G1.3 Limitations of this Part

This Part has inherent limitations, including:

(a) the Guidelines are not applicable to protect those person(s) directly involved with
fire ignition (initiation) (e.g. arson). Fire safety provisions are not generally designed
to protect such persons;
(b) the Guidelines are intended to be used by persons who have adequate
qualifications, experience and knowledge in the field of fire engineering; and
(c) the Guidelines are not applicable for fire hazards related to handling of explosive
materials.

187
Section 2 - Framework for Fire Engineering
Clause G2.1 Performance Requirements and Level of Safety

The Performance Requirements in Part A may apply differently to different buildings and
different Use Classifications, e.g. the Performance Requirements related to means of
escape are interpreted and applied differently for a shopping centre, a high-rise domestic
building and a hospital. Although there is no explicit level of safety stated for the
Performance Requirements in Part A, when adopting a performance-based approach, the
Building Authority will normally accept a level of performance not inferior to that of the
Deemed-to-Comply provisions. The Deemed-to-Comply provisions in Parts B to E provide a
benchmark on the acceptable level of fire safety of buildings.

Commentary
It is not possible to design or obtain a goal of absolute safety for all building occupants, with
respect to fire safety. There is always a finite risk of injury, death or property damage as a
result of a fire. Due to the difficulty in predicting the outcomes of fire and its impact on life
safety and property safety, all fire safety solutions, whether performance-based or those
complying fully with the Deemed-to-Comply provisions will have a certain risk to life and
property associated. Deemed-to-Comply provisions in this Code provide a benchmark with
respect to the acceptable level of risk, with regard to the risk of fatality, injury and loss of
adjacent structures through fire. It is not intended that this benchmark should be “absolute
safety” or “zero risk” because these concepts are not achievable and the benchmark risk
needs to take into account what the community expects and the cost to the community,
which may only be determined by a cost benefit analysis.
In order to complete a performance-based assessment (Alternative Solution), acceptance
criteria must be developed in order to analyse the outcome of the design. The relationship
between the acceptance criteria and the relevant Performance Requirements may vary in
different scenarios and must be considered on a case-by-case basis, which is part of the fire
engineering approach process.

Clause G2.2 Complying with the Framework for Fire Engineering

This Part provides guidance on the application of fire engineering for the formulation of an
Alternative Solution for fire safety provisions in buildings to comply with the fire safety
objectives, Functional Statements and Performance Requirements in Part A.
For example, an Alternative Solution for the provisions of means of escape may be
formulated as follows:
Step 1 Fire Safety Objectives
The fire safety provisions in a building should achieve the fire safety objectives and they
should be provided for:

1. Protection of life of building occupants.

2. Minimization of fire spread between fire compartments.
3. Prevention of building collapse as a result of fire.
4. Facilitation of firefighting and rescue by fire services personnel.

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Step 2 Functional Statement
The Functional Statement clarifies the fire safety objectives. The Functional Statement for
means of escape is provided in the Building (Planning) Regulation 41(1), stating “Every
building shall be provided with such means of escape in case of emergency as may be
required by the intended use of the building.”

Step 3 Performance Requirements

The Performance Requirements provide the criteria by which a solution for fire safety can
be formulated. The Performance Requirements consists of two parts:
(a) The Performance Requirement itself; and
(b) The guidance to the Performance Requirements which provides the factors to be
considered for demonstrating compliance.
Performance Requirements B1 to B7 should be complied with.

Step 4 Relevant Performance Requirements

Performance Requirements under various Functional Statements may need to be satisfied
for an Alternative Solution. For example, an assessment of means of escape requires
assessment of all Performance Requirements B1 to B7 but Performance Requirement C1
may also have to be evaluated as this relates to the protection of the means of escape from
fire.
All relevant Performance Requirements should be assessed against the Deemed-to-Comply
provisions for an Alternative Solution.

Step 5 Guidance
The guidance lists a “checklist” that should be considered in conjunction with each of the
Performance Requirement. For example, the assessment of means of escape for a high-
rise domestic building (Use Classification 1), as part of an Alternative Solution, should be
based on the assessment of Performance Requirements B1 to B7.
Taking Performance Requirement B1 as an example, which states that:
“A building, fire compartment or storey should be provided with adequate means of escape
for all occupants to evacuate safely without being overwhelmed by the effects of fire.”
This indicates that the design must satisfy that the subject building has adequate number of
required staircases and exits of adequate width, both of which have adequate protection
allowing all occupants to evacuate in case of fire. The number and design of required
staircases or exits and the protection required to achieve a safe evacuation can be further
determined by an evaluation of the guidance in G2.3. For example, each Performance
Requirement can be addressed in detail through the use of the guidance, which assists the
design of appropriate fire safety provisions that satisfy the relevant Performance
Requirement and hence, meet the Functional Statement and finally achieve compliance.
This process can be carried out for all relevant Performance Requirements, as part of an
Alternative Solution and the process of evaluation should be supported through calculations
and detailed assessment.

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Step 6 Demonstrate Compliance

Compliance with the Performance Requirements can be achieved by:

(a) Complying with the Deemed-to-Comply provisions in this Code, or
(b) Formulating an Alternative Solution which complies with the Performance
Requirements, or
(c) A combination of (a) and (b).
Compliance has to be demonstrated by proving that all relevant Performance Requirements
are satisfied. The Alternative Solution involves a process of setting the relevant acceptance
criteria and then providing an assessment that demonstrates the acceptance criteria are
met. The fire safety sub-systems in Section 5 provide the evaluation methodology for
detailed assessment.

Commentary
It is expected that most of the Alternative Solutions will be based on demonstrating a
building is safe and complies with the Performance Requirements, the Functional
Statements and the fire safety objectives through fire safety provisions.
The interpretation and application of Performance Requirements will vary for different
buildings or Use Classifications.
Because of the uncertainties that can arise from the qualitative Performance Requirements
and interpretations in the methods and data available to determine whether the acceptance
criteria have been met, it is recommended that sensitivity assessment and design
redundancies (with careful evaluation on relevant safety factor) are addressed as part of the
fire engineering assessment to be evaluated by utilising the fire safety sub-systems (see
Section 5).

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Clause G2.3 Evaluation Criteria on Guidance to Performance
Requirements

The following criteria should be evaluated when considering the Guidance to Performance
Requirements:

Guidance to Performance Requirements for Means of Escape

Guidance Statement Evaluation of Factors

B-a Use Classification of The Use Classification of a building will have impact on the
the building number of exits required, due to the number of occupants
in the building. The Use Classification also determines
whether the occupants of the building are potentially
asleep, awake, familiar with the building or require
assistance to evacuate.
B-b Occupant capacity, The total number of required staircases or exits is
nature, location and dependent on the number of occupants and the travel
awareness distances expected. Care should be taken for high
occupancy buildings and where occupants maybe
unfamiliar with the building.
B-c Fire hazard, its The fire hazard within the Use Classification may impact
potential growth and adversely on evacuating occupants and will need to be
duration considered with regard to the speed of fire growth, intensity
and smoke spread.
B-d Building height Occupant evacuation may be more difficult for taller
buildings and hence extra provisions such as refuge floors
are provided.
B-e Building area and fire Required staircases and exits are dependent on the overall
compartment area building size and the fire compartments that separate the
building. Openings between fire compartments, especially
floor voids can increase the risk of fire and smoke spread
impacting on evacuation.
B-f Security measures Doors to a required staircase may be electronically
impairing escape secured and security devices which can be released in
case of fire or other methods to ensure exit and access
must be considered.
B-g Fire safety The fire safety provisions within the building may assist the
provisions installed timely evacuation of occupants by providing earlier
within the building detection or allowing faster movement to a safe
environment.
B-h Type, number, size, Exit routes must be adequately sized and readily located
location and layout for all occupants to evacuate safely and used efficiently.
of exit routes Exit signs assist occupants finding their ways to the
required staircases.
B-i Suitable resting For tall buildings, refuge floors are required to allow
areas to avoid occupants descending to have a short rest at intermediate
fatigue floors before they continue using the required staircases.

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B-j Suitable construction Staircases should be constructed to reduce the risk of
to prevent slipping occupants slipping and falling through the provision of
and falling handrails, tread and riser dimensions and lighting.
B-k Temperature, The exposure of occupants may be received from a fire will
visibility, toxicity of need to be assessed if the proposed layout of the floor has
smoke exits and protection of exits that differ from the Deemed-to-
Comply provisions.
B-l Protection from Required staircases within a building will need to be
adjoining and protected from a fire in an adjoining or adjacent building.
adjacent buildings
B-m Fire service Appropriate access to the building and firefighting
intervention equipment to allow firefighters to suppress a fire is
required.

Guidance to Performance Requirements for Fire Resisting Construction

Guidance Statement Evaluation of Factors

C-a Use Classification of The Use Classification of a building will have impact on the
the building fire load, fire intensity, duration of burning and the hazard to
the occupants. The Use Classification will also have impact
on firefighting operations.
C-b Occupant capacity, The total number of occupants, their location within the
nature, location and building and their ability to evacuate, will need to be
awareness considered with regard to the FRR and compartmentation
to be provided.
C-c Fire hazard, its The fire hazard within the Use Classification will have
potential growth and impact on the FRR and compartmentation required. The
duration impact on evacuating occupants will need to be considered
with regard to the speed of fire growth, intensity and smoke
spread.
C-d Building height Building height will be a factor for consideration for the
determination of FRR, compartmentation and firefighting
access.
C-e Building area and fire Overall building size and compartmentation need to be
compartment area considered to reduce the impact of a potential fire. Fire
compartmentation may also be utilised to separate more
hazardous areas to facilitate evacuation of occupants.
Openings between fire compartments, especially floor voids
can increase the risk of fire and smoke spread.
C-f Building location in The potential for fire to spread between buildings must be
relation to property considered and openings should be provided with
boundaries appropriate fire barriers.

C-g Location of roof The potential for fire to spread to other buildings via a roof
having regard to must be considered.
other buildings

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