Hong Kong Fire Safety Requirements
Fire Services Department requirements, registered contractors, certification and annual inspection.
- Use the current Fire Services Department Code of Practice for the premises.
- Engage the correct class of Registered Fire Service Installation Contractor.
- Plan approval, testing, FS 251 certification and annual inspection together.
Apply the FSD Code of Practice to the Premises
The Fire Services Department Code of Practice sets minimum fire service installations and equipment for different premises. Licensing requirements can add project-specific conditions.
Confirm the current code and any Fire Services Department requirements before the contractor begins work.
Appoint the Correct Class of Registered Fire Service Installation Contractor
Fire alarm and detection work, fixed suppression work and portable equipment fall under different contractor classes. Engage a Registered Fire Service Installation Contractor with the correct class.
The contractor should also confirm the accepted equipment and documents required for the installation.
- Current FSD requirements or approved plans
- Correct RFSIC class
- Accepted equipment and model schedule
- Testing and FS 251 certification
Complete FS 251 Certification and Annual Inspection
Owners must keep required fire service installations in efficient working order. A registered contractor must inspect them at least once every 12 months and issue the required certificate.
Partitions, ceilings, ducts and stored goods must not obstruct detectors, sprinklers or other equipment.
Hong Kong Fire Safety Project Checklist
Confirm the use, licence, building plans and required fire service installations.
Appoint the correct class of Registered Fire Service Installation Contractor for the work.
Prepare accepted product records, exact models, drawings, calculations and commissioning checklists.
Keep certification records and arrange inspection by a registered contractor at least every 12 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which code sets the required fire systems in Hong Kong?
Use the current Fire Services Department Code of Practice for Minimum Fire Service Installations and Equipment, plus any requirements issued for the premises.
Who can install or alter a fire alarm system?
Use a Class 1 Registered Fire Service Installation Contractor for systems that electrically detect and warn of smoke or fire. Alarm Supply can help identify suitable equipment and provide technical documents. Contact us to discuss your project.
Who can work on sprinkler or fixed suppression systems?
Use a contractor registered in the class appropriate to pipework and extinguishing systems, commonly Class 2.
How often must required fire service installations be inspected?
They must be kept operational and inspected by a registered contractor at least once every 12 months.
What is an FS 251 certificate?
It is the certificate a registered contractor issues for completed or inspected fire service installations and equipment.
Can a new partition or false ceiling affect compliance?
Yes. It can obstruct sprinkler coverage, detectors or hose reels, so the layout and equipment positions must be reviewed.
Official references
Information is based on reviewed sources and our experience at the date shown. Use it at your own risk and verify current codes, certificates and project conditions. Report an issue or suggest a correction.