The Fire Services Department yesterday introduced new measures, with immediate effect, to enhance the management of fire service installations and the transparency of relevant information.

The department issued two circular letters to regulate registered fire service installation contractors (RFSICs). The letters direct RFSICs to enhance the management of fire service installations and equipment (FSI) and to increase the transparency of information relating to the operational status of FSIs.

When there is any defect in FSIs such as hose reels and manual call points, RFSICs must affix a Damage Notice complying with standard requirements in a prominent position on the FSI to facilitate easy identification. This is to guide the public to avoid using non-operable FSIs during emergencies.

In addition, RFSICs are required to apply seals to the main power switches of FSI systems to prevent power from being turned off by mistake. They must also facilitate inspections by property management staff to assess power supply status and ensure timely follow-up actions.

The department also reminds RFSICs that before turning off FSIs for works, pre-assessment should be conducted on whether functions of other FSIs will be affected, and all areas being affected should be reported concurrently to the FSD.

RFSICs must put up large-sized notices at prominent locations such as main building entrances and lift lobbies, clearly outlining information including dates of any FSI operation suspension and areas that will be affected, to keep occupants, property management staff, and other relevant parties informed.

This is to raise occupants’ awareness of fire safety when FSIs are not in working order or being shut down.

The department emphasises that RFSICs must strictly adhere to the new requirements. Any misconduct or negligence may result in disciplinary actions by the department, including being removed from the register of RFSICs.