Fire Services Department Introduces Temporary Manual Fire Alarm Device as Emergency Substitute
SingTao · 1 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The Hong Kong Fire Services Department (FSD) announced on September 1, 2026, that it has begun accepting the "Temporary Manual Fire Alarm Device" as an official substitute measure when fire alarm systems become temporarily inoperative. This new measure aims to maintain fire safety protection in buildings during periods when primary fire alarm systems require repair, maintenance, or have suffered serious damage .
Key Points
- Under Regulation 8(1)(a) of the Fire Services (Installation and Equipment) Regulations (Chapter 95B), owners of fire installations must keep all devices in effective operation at all times
- The FSD conducts risk assessments when fire alarm systems fail due to serious damage, require overnight maintenance, or remain continuously closed for more than 24 hours
- The new Temporary Manual Fire Alarm Device integrates an alarm sounder and manual fire alarm bell switch into a single component; pressing the bell switch triggers immediate audible alerts for residents
- Grade 2 registered fire installation contractors must install these devices adjacent to each existing manual fire alarm bell switch within the affected range, clearly marked "Temporary Manual Fire Alarm Device"
- Contractors must issue an F.S. 251 certificate per Regulation 9(1) after installation and submit copies to the FSD Director
- A transition period allows independent fire detectors as temporary alternatives to help the industry adapt to the new requirements
- Management companies must post visible notices informing residents of the situation, affected areas, and estimated repair completion time during system downtime
- Residents are advised to familiarize themselves with the location of temporary devices and keep escape routes clear at all times
- The FSD will issue Fire Hazard Abatement Notices and take legal action against parties who fail to implement required fire safety measures or complete repairs promptly
Why It Matters
This policy update ensures continuous fire safety protection for building residents during system failures, reducing potential risks while repairs are conducted. The initiative reflects the FSD's commitment to adapting to market product and technology developments while maintaining stringent fire safety standards across Hong Kong's building stock .
This policy update ensures continuous fire safety protection for building residents during system failures, reducing potential risks while repairs are conducted. The initiative reflects the FSD's commitment to adapting to market product and technology developments while maintaining stringent fire safety standards across Hong Kong's building stock .