The Fire Services Department today clarified that a media commentary claiming the trade doubts whether the department's suggestion to shut down fire service installation and equipment (FSI) by phases during building maintenance works is feasible, does not fully reflect the facts.

According to the Fire Service (Installations & Equipment) Regulations, no person other than a registered fire service installation contractor shall maintain, inspect or repair any FSI in any premises.

Any person contravening the regulations is liable upon conviction to a fine of $50,000. Any person who is not a registered fire service installation contractor who attempts to interfere with FSIs may be in breach of the law and the department will follow up stringently.

Maintenance, repair or inspection of FSIs must be carried out by registered fire service installation contractors, who will exercise professional judgement and carry out the relevant work in accordance with the department's instructions.

Personnel responsible for building maintenance works have no authority to shut down FSIs and it is extremely irresponsible for any frontline personnel to shut down FSIs in order to avoid false alarms triggered by the works.

The department’s Circular Letter No. 1/2021 stipulates that disruption to the normal operation of FSIs caused by its shutdown should be kept to the minimum.

When carrying out the works, the contractor concerned should adopt a systematic approach in shutting down the affected FSI by phases and resume normal operation as soon as practicable.

If the affected portion of the system could not be reinstated to normal working condition by the end of a working shift, arrangements should be made for the portion to be isolated with the remainder of the system to be reinstated.

Upon completion of the relevant works, the contractor shall issue the Certificate of Fire Service Installations & Equipment in due course.

The department earlier held a meeting with the Association of Registered Fire Service Installation Contractors on the matter, and the trade expressed its full support and willingness to implement the relevant measures in accordance with the statutory requirements and guidelines.