4.2.1 General
Amendment History
| 4.2.1 |
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01 Mar 2019 |
Revised |
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a. Fire engine accessways/ fire engine access roads shall be provided to ensure site accessibility for firefighting appliances.
b. Fire engine accessways shall have an adequate clear width for the deployment of firefighting appliances, in accordance with the habitable height and the type of building, as stipulated in Table 4.2A, Table 4.2B and Table 4.2C.
c. Fire engine access roads shall have a clear width of at least 4m.
d. Fire access openings shall be provided along the external walls of buildings fronting the fire engine accessway to provide access into the building for firefighting and rescue operations.
4.2.2 Fire engine accessway and fire engine access road
(1) PG I and II buildings
Effective Date: 15 Sep 2020
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 4.2.2a.(1) : Fire engine accessway and
fire engine access road
.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=ae9180e_1 "Fg.4.2.2a(1)")
Figure 4.2.2a.(1)
The measurement of the travel distance shall be the line of travel located outside the building, and shall not traverse across open sided porches or 1st storey void deck. The travel distance is the distance that a firefighter would traverse while carrying a portable ladder or equipment.
Amendment History
| 4.2.2 |
15 Sep 2020 |
15 Sep 2020 |
Clarification |
Fire engine accessway and fire engine access road a. Provision (1) PG I and II buildings not exceeding 10m habitable height A fire engine accessway is not required for the following buildings, however, a fire engine access road for access by firefighting appliances shall be provided to within a travel distance of 60m of every point on the projected plan area of the following buildings: (a) PG I buildings; (b) PG II buildings of habitable height not exceeding 10m; and (c) Cluster housing. |
15 Sep 2020 |
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A fire engine accessway is not required for the following buildings, however, a fire engine access road for access by firefighting appliances hall be provided to within a travel distance of 60m of every point on the projected plan area of the following
buildings:
(a) PG I buildings;
(b) PG II buildings of habitable height not exceeding 10m; and
(c) Cluster housing.
(2) Non-residential standalone buildings within PG II development
Non-residential standalone buildings, such as clubhouses, car parks, etc. (excluding guardhouses and substations) that are located within a PG II housing development, shall comply with Cl.4.2.2a.(4), Cl.4.2.2a.(5), Cl.4.2.2a.(6) or Cl.4.2.2a.(7), depending
on the habitable heights and usage of the buildings.
Effective Date: 15 Sep 2020
Amendment History
| 4.2.2 |
15 Sep 2020 |
15 Sep 2020 |
Clarification |
Fire engine accessway and fire engine access road a. Provision (1) PG I and II buildings not exceeding 10m habitable height A fire engine accessway is not required for the following buildings, however, a fire engine access road for access by firefighting appliances shall be provided to within a travel distance of 60m of every point on the projected plan area of the following buildings: (a) PG I buildings; (b) PG II buildings of habitable height not exceeding 10m; and (c) Cluster housing. |
15 Sep 2020 |
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(3) PG II buildings exceeding 10m habitable height
For a building under PG II that exceeds the habitable height of 10m, all of the following shall be complied with:
(a) A fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road shall be provided within a travel distance of 18m to the entrance of all exit staircases where the landing valves (dry or wet riser) are provided in accordance with Cl.6.2.2b..
Effective Date: 1 Mar 2023
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Rationale - Clause 4.2.2a.(3)(a)
The reason for specifying fire engine accessways/access roads to be located within 18m of all exit staircases installed with dry riser is to reduce the distance that firefighters needs to travel to get to the landing valve. This will effectively reduce the time taken by the firefighters to tackle the fire and conduct rescue operation.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 4.2.2a.(3)(a) : Fire engine accessway and
fire engine access road
(a).tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=dbc5b4ca_1 "Fg.4.2.2a(3)(a)")
Figure 4.2.2a.(3)(a)
Blk. A, B & C exceeded 10m in habitable height, fire engine access road is within 18m from entrance ST1, ST3 & ST5 where dry risers are located fire engine access road is to be extended to ST2, ST4 & ST6 if dry riser is provided for these staircases due to insufficient coverage of the first.
As multi-storey car park is classified under PG VIII, fire engine accessway is required to comply with Cl.4.2.2a.(2).
Amendment History
| 4.2.2a(3)(b) |
10 May 2019 |
Immediate |
Clarification |
|
10 May 2019 |
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| 4.2.2a.(3)(a) and (b) |
1 Sep 2021 |
1 Mar 2022 |
Revised/ Clarification |
Fire engine accessway and fire engine access road (3) PG II buildings exceeding 10m habitable height For a building under PG II that exceeds the habitable height of 10m, all of the following shall be complied with: (a) A fire engine accessway/fire engine access road shall be provided within a travel distance of 18m to the entrance of all exit staircases where the landing valves (dry or wet riser) are provided. (b) A fire engine accessway shall be provided to access at least one entire façade of each block and shall be located at a distance of at least 2m and at most 10m away from the façade of the building. (c) The fire engine accessway shall be designed to meet the specifications stipulated in Table 4.2A, Table 4.2D and Table 4.2E. |
1 Sep 2021 |
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| 4.2.2a.(3)(b) |
1 Mar 2023 |
1 Mar 2023 |
Relaxation |
A fire engine accessway of at least ¼ length of perimeter (minimum 15m), whichever is greater, shall be provided to access at least one entire façade of each block and shall be located at a distance of at least 2m and at most 10m away from the façade of the building. This is to facilitate rescue with direct access to unit windows (excluding exit staircase, smoke-free approach to exit staircase). |
1 Sep 2022 |
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(b) A fire engine accessway of at least ¼ length of perimeter (minimum 15m), whichever is greater, shall be provided to access at least one façade of each block and shall be located at a distance of at least 2m and at most 10m away from the facade of the building. This is to facilitate rescue with direct access to unit windows (excluding exit staircase, smoke-free approach to exit staircase). For the purpose of computing the extent of perimeter for fire engine accessway, only the external facade perimeters of residential units are required to be included. Common areas such as corridors/ lobbies, lift/ service shafts, exit staircase, landscape areas, etc., can be omitted from the computation.
Effective Date: 1 Mar 2023
Amendment History
| 4.2.2a(3)(b) |
10 May 2019 |
Immediate |
Clarification |
|
10 May 2019 |
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| 4.2.2a.(3)(a) and (b) |
1 Sep 2021 |
1 Mar 2022 |
Revised/ Clarification |
Fire engine accessway and fire engine access road (3) PG II buildings exceeding 10m habitable height For a building under PG II that exceeds the habitable height of 10m, all of the following shall be complied with: (a) A fire engine accessway/fire engine access road shall be provided within a travel distance of 18m to the entrance of all exit staircases where the landing valves (dry or wet riser) are provided. (b) A fire engine accessway shall be provided to access at least one entire façade of each block and shall be located at a distance of at least 2m and at most 10m away from the façade of the building. (c) The fire engine accessway shall be designed to meet the specifications stipulated in Table 4.2A, Table 4.2D and Table 4.2E. |
1 Sep 2021 |
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| 4.2.2a.(3)(b) |
1 Mar 2023 |
1 Mar 2023 |
Relaxation |
A fire engine accessway of at least ¼ length of perimeter (minimum 15m), whichever is greater, shall be provided to access at least one entire façade of each block and shall be located at a distance of at least 2m and at most 10m away from the façade of the building. This is to facilitate rescue with direct access to unit windows (excluding exit staircase, smoke-free approach to exit staircase). |
1 Sep 2022 |
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(c) The fire engine accessway shall be designed to meet the specifications stipulated in Table 4.2A,
Table 4.2D and
Table 4.2E.
Effective Date: 01 Mar 2019
Amendment History
| 4.2.2a.(3)(b) and (c) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
New |
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(4) PG III, IV, V & VII buildings not exceeding 10m habitable height
For buildings under PG III, IV, V and VII not exceeding the habitable height of 10m, a fire engine accessway is not required. However, a fire engine access road for access by firefighting appliances shall be provided to within a travel distance of 45m of every point on the projected plan area of the building.
(5) Basement
In the case of a basement, the fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road shall be provided to within a travel distance of 18m to the entrance of all exit staircases where the landing valves (dry or wet riser) are provided in accordance with
Cl.6.2.2b.. The measurement of 18m shall be between the fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road and the entrance of exit staircase.
Effective Date: 1 Mar 2022
Amendment History
| 4.2.2a.(5) |
1 Sep 2021 |
1 Mar 2022 |
Revised/ Clarification |
Basement In the case of a basement, the fire engine accessway/fire engine access road shall be provided to within a travel distance of 18m to the entrance of all exit staircases that are provided with landing valves (dry or wet riser) in accordance with Cl.6.2.2b.. The measurement of 18m shall be between the fire engine accessway/fire engine access road and the entrance of exit staircase. |
1 Sep 2021 |
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(6) PG III, IV, V & VII buildings exceeding 10m habitable height
Effective Date: 2 Dec 2019
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 4.2.2a.(6) : Fire engine accessway and fire engine access road
-1.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=a5321802_1 "Fg.4.2.2a(6)-1")
Figure 4.2.2a.(6) - 1
-2.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=db3e9224_1 "Fg.4.2.2a(6)-2")
Figure 4.2.2a.(6) - 2
In the event the service road (Minimum 6m) is accessible by firefighting appliances and the building volume exceeds 2000m2 but is less than 4000m2, then
A + C ≥ ¼ ( A + B + C + D )
-3.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=ab52233a_1 "Fg.4.2.2a(6)-3")
Figure 4.2.2a.(6) - 3
Amendment History
| 4.2.2a.(6) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
Revised, formerly Cl.4.2.2(b)(i) |
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| 4.2.2a.(6) ( dated 2 Dec 2019 ) |
2 Dec 2019 |
2 Dec 2019 |
Clarification |
PG III, IV, V & VII buildings exceeding 10m habitable height
For buildings under PG III, IV, V and VII exceeding the habitable height of 10m, a fire engine accessway shall be located directly below the fire access openings to provide direct reach to the designated fire access panels. The required length of fire engine accessway shall be computed based on the largest Accessible Floor Area (AFA) of any aboveground floors as follows:
(a) for interconnected floors, including basements connected to aboveground floors, the AFA shall be the aggregate areas of all the interconnected floors, or
(b) for buildings with more than one group of interconnected floors, the AFA shall be taken as the largest of the aggregate floor areas among the groups of interconnected floors.
|
2 Dec 2019 |
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For buildings under PG III, IV, V and VII exceeding the habitable height of 10m, a fire engine accessway shall be located directly below the fire access openings to provide direct reach to the designated fire access panels. The required length of fire engine accessway shall be computed based on the largest Accessible Floor Area (AFA) of any aboveground floors as follows:
(a) for interconnected floors, including basements connected to aboveground floors, the AFA shall be the aggregate AFA of all the interconnected floors, or
(b) for buildings with more than one group of interconnected floors, the AFA shall be taken as the largest of the aggregate floor areas among the groups of interconnected floors.
Effective Date: 2 Dec 2019
Amendment History
| 4.2.2a.(6) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
Revised, formerly Cl.4.2.2(b)(i) |
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| 4.2.2a.(6) ( dated 2 Dec 2019 ) |
2 Dec 2019 |
2 Dec 2019 |
Clarification |
PG III, IV, V & VII buildings exceeding 10m habitable height
For buildings under PG III, IV, V and VII exceeding the habitable height of 10m, a fire engine accessway shall be located directly below the fire access openings to provide direct reach to the designated fire access panels. The required length of fire engine accessway shall be computed based on the largest Accessible Floor Area (AFA) of any aboveground floors as follows:
(a) for interconnected floors, including basements connected to aboveground floors, the AFA shall be the aggregate areas of all the interconnected floors, or
(b) for buildings with more than one group of interconnected floors, the AFA shall be taken as the largest of the aggregate floor areas among the groups of interconnected floors.
|
2 Dec 2019 |
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| TABLE 4.2.2a.(6) : LENGTH OF FIRE ENGINE ACCESSWAY FOR PG III, IV, V & VII BUILDINGS
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| AFA (m2)
| Required length of perimeter
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| Non-sprinkler-protected
| Sprinkler-protected
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| ≤ 2000
| 1/6 (at least 15m)
| 1/6 (at least 15m)
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| > 2000 & ≤ 4000
| ¼
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| > 4000 & ≤ 8000
| ½
| ¼
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| > 8000 & ≤ 16000
| ¾
| ½
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| > 16000 & ≤ 32000
| island site
| ¾
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| >32000
| island site
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(7) PG VI and VIII buildings
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 4.2.2a.(7) : Accessway/access road
for fire fighting appliances
-1.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=73087480_1 "Fg.4.2.2a(7)-1")
Figure 4.2.2a.(7) - 1
-2.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=235a8a3a_1 "Fg.4.2.2a(7)-2")
Figure 4.2.2a.(7) - 2
In the event the service road (minimum 6m) is accessible by firefighting appliances and the building volume exceeds 28400m3 but is less than 56800m3, then
A + C ≥ ¼ ( A + B + C + D )
-3.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=57cca456_1 "Fg.4.2.2a(7)-3")
Figure 4.2.2a.(7) - 3
a. The fire loads in industrial premises are much higher and fires could be more complex in nature, scale and magnitude compared to commercial buildings. Larger compartment sizes are common in such buildings especially in process and storage areas. The high rack storage of materials creates a large volume of combustibles.
b. It is important to note that for industrial buildings, the gross cubical extent is used for the calculation of the extent of fire engine accessway required.
c. Sprinkler-protected buildings
For buildings protected by an automatic sprinkler system, the cubical extent of the buildings can be doubled.
For buildings under PG VI and VIII, a fire engine accessway shall be provided for firefighting appliances. The required length of the fire engine accessway shall be calculated based on the following gross cubical extent of the building (excluding basement) as follows:
| TABLE 4.2.2a.(7) : LENGTH OF FIRE ENGINE ACCESSWAY FOR PG VI & VIII BUILDINGS
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| Cubicle Extent (m3)
| Required length of perimeter
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| Non-sprinkler-protected
| Sprinkler-protected
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| ≤ 28400
| ⅙ (at least 15m)
| ⅙ (at least 15m)
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| > 28400 & ≤ 56800
| ¼
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| > 56800 & ≤ 85200
| ½
| ¼
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| > 85200 & ≤ 113600
| ¾
| ¼
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| > 113600 & ≤ 170400
| island site
| ½
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| > 170400 & ≤ 227200
| ¾
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| >227200
| island site
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(8) Mixed-use buildings
(a) Where the non-residential component of the building occupies only the lower portion of the building, the measurement of habitable height for determining the provisions of a fire engine accessway/fire engine access road shall be based on the non- residential
component of the building.
(b) For mixed-use buildings without PG II usage, the length of fire engine accessway shall be computed based on the following, whichever is larger:
(i) the gross cubical extent of the PG VI or VIII usages; or
(ii) the larger compartmented floor area, for purpose groups other than PG VI and VIII.
(c) For mixed-use buildings with PG II usage, the length of fire engine accessway for mixed-use buildings shall be computed based on Cl.4.2.2a.(6) above. In addition, Cl.4.2.2a.(3) shall also be
complied with.
Effective Date: 01 Mar 2019
Amendment History
| 4.2.2a.(8) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
New |
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b. Width of fire engine accessway
The width of fire engine accesssway shall be as specified in Table 4.2A, Table 4.2B and Table 4.2C.
Such fire engine accessway shall be able to accommodate the entry and manoeuvring of firefighting appliances, and extended ladder firefighting appliances, with turntable and/or hydraulic platforms.
Effective Date: 01 Mar 2019
Amendment History
| 4.2.2b |
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01 Mar 2019 |
Revised, formerly Cl.4.2.2(d)(ii) |
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c. Location
The fire engine accessway shall be positioned so that the nearer edge shall be at least 2m or at most 10m from the centre position of the fire access opening, measured horizontally.
d. Gradients of fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road
The fire engine accessway shall be laid on a level platform. If on an incline, the gradient shall not exceed 1:15. A fire engine access road shall be laid on an incline not exceeding a gradient of 1:8.3.
e. Turning facilities
(1) A dead end fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road shall not exceed 46m in length. If exceeding 46m, it shall be provided with cul-de-sac turning facility as shown in Diagram 4.2.2e..
f. Overhead clearance
An overhead structure shall only be permitted over a fire engine accessway/fire engine access road subject to all of the following (see Diagram 4.2.2f.):
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Rationale - Clause 4.2.2f
The restrictions of maximum 10m width of the overhead structure (e.g. link bridge) and the 20m separation distance between them is to ensure adequate openings for smoke ventilation, thus minimising risk of smoke accumulation under such structures. It also serves to provide visual cues to drivers of firefighting appliances that it is safe to travel through the space under the overhead structure.
(1) the overhead clearance for passage of firefighting appliances shall be at least 4.5m;
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 4.2.2f.(1) : Fire engine accessway and
fire engine access road
.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=3e57e19b_1 "Fg.4.2.2f(1)")
Figure 4.2.2f.(1)
Overhead obstruction to fire engine accessway could be entrance gate, conveyor belts, pipe racks or bridges connecting buildings etc.. Public road can be used as fire engine accessway by firefighting appliance, provided the edge of the public road to the facade of the building where access openings are located shall not exceed 10m.
(2) the width of the overhead structure shall not be more than 10m;
(3) where more than one overhead structure spans across the fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road, the separation distance between two adjacent overhead structures shall be at least 20m apart;
(4) the length of the end-stretch of the fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road shall be at least 20m with no overhead structure; and
(5) the length of fire engine accessway required for the building shall exclude the stretch of fire engine accessway with the overhead structure.
Effective Date: 01 Mar 2019
Amendment History
| 4.2.2f.(2) to (5) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
New |
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g. Public road
Public roads can serve as a fire engine accessway, provided the location of such public roads is in compliance with the requirements of distance from fire access openings.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 4.2.2g. : Fire engine accessway and
fire engine access road
Figure 4.2.2g.
Elevation of building to the edge of road kerb shall not exceed 10m, in order to permit external firefighting and rescue from the firefighting appliance parked on public road.
h. Obstruction
Fire engine accessways/ fire engine access roads shall be kept clear of obstructions at all times. Plants, trees or other fixtures shall not obstruct the path between the fire engine accessway and fire access openings.
Exception
(1) Where an access control system for unmanned building (exclude PG I building) such as a barrier, sliding/ swing gate, etc. is provided at the entrance into the development, such systems
(a) shall automatically open upon detection of firefighting appliances (such as In-vehicle Unit (IU) for emergency vehicles) or activation of the building fire alarm, and shall remain open until the access control system has been manually reset; and
(b) shall be arranged to open automatically from a fail-safe manual override device located 1.2m above the floor and within 1.5m facing the external side of the development, with the manual override device readily accessible and clearly identified by a sign that reads “Emergency Release”.
(2) For manned building, the barrier at the entrance into the development shall be immediately opened/removed upon building’s fire alarm activation.
Effective Date: 1 Sep 2021
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 4.2.2h. : Fire engine accessway and
fire engine access road
Figure 4.2.2h. - 1
Trees causing obstruction to external rescue and firefighting.
Note : There is no requirement to provide fire engine accessway and fire access opening to buildings under PG I.
Figure 4.2.2h. - 2
The podium edge is obstructing the reach of the boom of firefighting appliance to 4th storey. Other obstructions could be roadside trees, entrance porch etc.. To allow full extension of aerial ladders at a safe climbing or elevation angle Ø of 60 to 80 degrees, sufficient space is needed to position the firefighting appliance.
Figure 4.2.2h. - 3
Tower block is relocated nearer to the edge of the podium base to avoid obstruction to the boom of firefighting appliance.
The firefighting appliance shall be located at least 2m, but not more than 10m away from the external wall or façade (including any overhead obstruction) of the building. If the firefighting appliance is located within 2m from the building, the aerial ladder when set-up would fall outside the safe working limit i.e. the inclination of the ladder would be too steep.
If the firefighting appliance is located more than 10m from the building, the effective reach of the aerial ladder would be reduced.
Figure 4.2.2h. - 4 : Security barrier
The security barrier, when lifted up, shall not obstruct the fire engine accessway.
Figure 4.2.2h. - 5 : Security post / guard house
Eaves of the security post/guard house shall not project into the fire engine accessway.
Amendment History
| 4.2.2h. |
1 Mar 2021 |
1 Sep 2021 |
Revised/Clarification |
h. Obstruction Fire engine accessways/fire engine access roads shall be kept clear of obstructions at all times. Plants, trees or other fixtures shall not obstruct the path between the fire engine accessway and fire access openings. |
1 Mar 2021 |
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i. Marking of fire engine accessway and fire engine access road
(1) All fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road shall be marked, except where public roads are designated as fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road.
Effective Date: 15 Mar 2021
Amendment History
| 4.2.2i(3) |
10 May 2019 |
10 May 2019 |
Change in requirements |
A sign post with white background and red wording of not less than 50mm in height shall be provided at the start and end of a fire engine accessway/fire engine access road. The height measured from the ground to the lowest point of the sign shall be between 1m and 1.5m. The sign post shall be visible at night and shall not be positioned more than 3m from the fire engine accessway/fire engine access road. Every part of the fire engine accessway/fire engine access road shall not be more than 15m from the nearest sign post. See Diagram 4.2.2i.(3). |
10 May 2019 |
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| 4.2.2i. |
15 Mar 2021 |
15 Mar 2021 |
Revised |
Marking of fire engine accessway and fire engine access road (1) All corners of fire engine accessway/fire engine access road shall be marked, except where public roads are designated as fire engine accessway/fire engine access road. (2) Metalled/non-metalled or paved/non-paved surface fire engine accessways/fire engine access roads shall be marked with reflective white or yellow strips of size not less than 100mm (W) x 400mm (L). The markings shall be visible at night and shall be provided on both sides of the fire engine accessways/fire engine access roads at an interval of not more than 5m. (3) A sign post with white background and red wording of not less than 50mm in height shall be provided at the start and end of a fire engine accessway/fire engine access road. The height measured from the ground to the lowest point of the sign shall be between 2m and 2.2m. The sign post shall be visible at night and shall not be positioned more than 3m from the fire engine accessway/fire engine access road. Every part of the fire engine accessway/fire engine access road shall not be more than 15m from the nearest sign post. See Diagram 4.2.2i.(3). |
15 Sep 2020 |
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(2) Metalled/ non-metalled or paved/ non-paved surface fire engine accessways/ fire engine access roads shall be marked with reflective white or yellow strips of size not less than 100mm (W) x 400mm (L), or white or yellow road stud reflectors of size not less than 100mm (W) x 100mm (L) x 18mm (H). The markings or reflectors shall be visible at all times and shall be provided on both sides of the fire engine accessways/ fire engine access roads at an alternate interval of not more than 5m. Markings or reflectors shall also mark all corners and turning corners of the fire engine accessway. See Diagram 4.2.2i.(2) -1 & 2.
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Rationale - Clause
The markings serve to guide our firefighters at a fire incident site where the fire engine accessways/access roads are not prominent and/or inconspicuous under poor lighting condition. The sign posts serve to indicate the maximum loading capacity and zone of the fire engine accessways/ access roads. They also serve to remind the public to keep the fire engine accessways/access roads clear of obstruction at all times.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 4.2.2i. : Fire engine accessway and
fire engine access road
Figure 4.2.2i. : Marking of fire engine accessway/access road
Fire engine accessways/access roads, which are specially designated for operation of the firefighting appliances, should be marked with signs to prevent unauthorised parking of other vehicles. They should be properly highlighted with contrasting colours to its surrounding for better visibility and easy identification by the responding firefighting crew.
Reflective material should also be used to demarcate the fire engine accessway space. This would help the firefighters to locate it readily when responding to a fire incident at night. It is also important to note that firefighting appliance is set up at the designated fire engine accessway, especially so when it could be located over ‘suspended’ or ‘cantilevered’ slabs over basement etc. to prevent damage to building structures, if otherwise operated elsewhere.
(3) A sign with white background and red pictogram with upper case wording of not less than 70mm in height shall be provided at the start, junction, and end of a fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road. The height measured from the ground to the
lowest point of the sign shall be between 2.3m and 2.4m. The sign shall be reflective, visible and unobstructed at all times and shall be positioned adjacent to the fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road. For locations where there are more
than one of such signs, the signs can be placed on the same post. See Diagram 4.2.2i.(3).
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Rationale - Clause 4.2.21.
The markings serve to guide our firefighters at a fire incident site where the fire engine accessways/access roads are not prominent and/or inconspicuous under poor lighting condition. The sign posts serve to indicate the maximum loading capacity and zone of the fire engine accessways/ access roads. They also serve to remind the public to keep the fire engine accessways/access roads clear of obstruction at all times.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 4.2.2i. : Fire engine accessway and
fire engine access road
Figure 4.2.2i. : Marking of fire engine accessway/access road
Fire engine accessways/access roads, which are specially designated for operation of the firefighting appliances, should be marked with signs to prevent unauthorised parking of other vehicles. They should be properly highlighted with contrasting colours to its surrounding for better visibility and easy identification by the responding firefighting crew.
Reflective material should also be used to demarcate the fire engine accessway space. This would help the firefighters to locate it readily when responding to a fire incident at night. It is also important to note that firefighting appliance is set up at the designated fire engine accessway, especially so when it could be located over ‘suspended’ or ‘cantilevered’ slabs over basement etc. to prevent damage to building structures, if otherwise operated elsewhere.
j. Design of fire engine accessway and fire engine access road
(1) Fire engine accessway sizes
The minimum width, length and turning radii of a fire engine accessway shall be in accordance with Table 4.2A, Table 4.2B and
Table 4.2C and
Diagram 4.2.2e.. Diagram 4.2.2j(1) – 1 to 3 shows the relationship between the fire engine accessway and parked firefighting appliance with its front and rear jacks extended.
(2) Fire engine accessways and fire engine access roads, which can be on suspended slabs, metalled/ non-metalled roads, paved/ non-paved surfaces, ground laid with strengthened perforated slabs, etc., shall be designed to withstand both stationary and axle
loading capacity of firefighting appliances respectively as stipulated in Table 4.2D and
Table 4.2E. Where a fire engine
access road is used for linking fire engine accessway, its loading and turning radius shall comply with the specifications for fire engine accessway.
Effective Date: 1 Mar 2019
Amendment History
| 4.2.2j. |
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1 Mar 2019 |
Revised, formerly Cl.4.2.2(d)(i) |
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k. Ancillary usage of fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road
Fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road shall not be turned into other usages such as pond, water features, car parking lots (including loading & unloading), etc. Turfing of fire engine accessway/fire engine access road is only permitted on the straight stretch of the fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road with gradient not exceeding 1:15.
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l. Bi-directional fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road
For buildings with vehicular entries/ exits that provides bi-directional access, both directions shall be designed with sufficient turning radius and width to allow firefighting appliances to manoeuvre along the fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road in the intended traffic direction as shown in Diagram 4.2.2l..
Effective Date: 1 Sep 2021
Amendment History
| 4.2.2l. |
1 Mar 2021 |
1 Sep 2021 |
Revised/Clarification |
Nil |
1 Mar 2021 |
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4.2.3 Fire access opening to building for firefighting
a. Provision
Fire access openings shall be provided on the external wall for external firefighting and rescue operations. This can include unobstructed external wall openings, windows, balcony doors, glazed wall panels and access panels. There shall be a
minimum clearance area of 3.5m in width
and 2.5m in height around the fire access opening, and with minimum clearance
distance of 1.1m measured below the lower
edge of the fire access opening, and
400mm measured above the upper edge of
the fire access opening.
Windows, doors, wall panels or access panels shall be readily openable from the inside and outside. The inside and outside of fire access openings shall be unobstructed at all times during the occupancy of the building. There shall be no furniture or any other obstruction within 1m from the fire access openings at the landing inside the building.
Effective Date: 1 Sep 2023
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Rationale - Clause 4.2.3a.
The purpose of providing fire access openings is to enable firefighters to gain access into the building from the exterior to rescue any trapped occupants and to facilitate external firefighting. Fire access openings shall not be located at exit staircases or smoke-stop/fire lift lobbies as these areas can be accessed through more conventional means.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 4.2.3a. : Fire access opening to building for firefighting
Figure 4.2.3a. - 1
Figure 4.2.3a. - 2
The purpose of the access opening is to enable firefighters to gain access from external to rescue any occupant who is trapped in the building and to allow firefighting from the outside of building. Access panels shall be placed at habitable spaces. In situation where the upper storey of a building is windowless, the FAPs could also be used for smoke and heat venting.
Access opening shall not be located at protected staircases or lobbies. As these spaces are being protected, there is no need for firefighters to gain access into them from the outside.
Sun shading to window shall be designed to have openable section in front of the designated FAP. QP should consult the SCDF for FAPs that are obstructed by the sun shading and seek acceptance on the method of opening or removal of that section of sun shading in front of the FAP before building plan submission.
Figure 4.2.3a. - 3
Amendment History
| 4.2.3a. (1 March 2023) |
1 Mar 2023 |
1 Sep 2023 |
Revised |
Fire access opening to building for firefighting
a. Provision
Fire access openings shall be provided on the external wall for external firefighting and rescue operations. This can include unobstructed external wall openings, windows, balcony doors, glazed wall panels and access panels. Windows, doors, wall panels or access panels shall be readily openable from the inside and outside. The inside and outside of fire access openings shall be unobstructed at all times during the occupancy of the building. There shall be no furniture or any other obstruction within 1m from the fire access openings at the landing inside the building. |
1 Mar 2023 |
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b. Location
The fire access opening shall be placed against an occupied space. It shall not be placed at a plant/store room, common corridor, exit staircase, smoke-free approach to exit staircase or space that leads only to a dead end.
Effective Date: 25 Aug 2023
Amendment History
| 4.2.3b. |
1 Sep 2021 |
1 Sep 2021 |
Clarification |
b. Location The fire access opening shall be placed against an occupied space. It shall not be placed at plant/store room, exit staircase, smoke-stop/fire lift lobby or space that leads only to a dead end. |
1 Sep 2021 |
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| 4.2.3b.( dated 25 Aug 2023) |
25 Aug 2023 |
25 Aug 2023 |
Revised/ Clarification |
4.2.3b. Location
The fire access opening shall be placed against an occupied space. It shall not be placed at plant/ store room, exit staircase, smoke -free approach to exit staircase or space that leads only to a dead end. |
25 Aug 2023 |
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c. Signage
Panels to fire access openings shall be indicated with either a red or orange triangle of equal sides (minimum 150mm on each side), which can be upright or inverted, on the external side of the wall and with the wordings "Firefighting Access - Do Not Obstruct" of at least 25mm height on the internal side.
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Rationale - Clause 4.2.3c
The red/orange triangular signage provided on the external side of the fire access panels helps firefighters on the ground to locate the designated fire access openings readily during an emergency.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 4.2.3c. : Fire access opening to building for firefighting
Figure 4.2.3c. : Signage for fire access opening
The signage, either in red or orange triangle would help firefighters on the ground to locate the designated access openings. The triangle can be upright or inverted.
d. Size
Fire access openings shall be not less than 850mm wide by 1m high with sill height of not more than 1.1m, and head height not less than 1.8m above the inside floor level.
e. Number and position of fire access openings for buildings other than residential
(1) Number of fire access opening
For PG III to VIII, the number of fire access opening shall be based on the length of the fire engine accessway. Every 20m of fire engine accessway or part thereof shall be provided with an access panel.
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Rationale - Clause 4.2.3d
The sill height of not more than 1.1m is to facilitate the free movement of firefighters into or out of the building. Higher sill heights may impede their access and increases their risk of falling.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 4.2.3d. : Fire access opening to building for firefighting
Figure 4.2.3d. - 1
In Fig. (iii), although the height of access opening complies with the Clause (1000mm), the head height is less than 1800mm.
Figure 4.2.3d. - 2
Signage shall be provided to indicate the access openings, both inside and outside habitable rooms to prevent any obstruction at all times. High level access openings are not acceptable as firefighters could incur physical injuries if they fall down from the opening when trying to gain access into the building. The sill height of not more than 1100mm is to facilitate the free movement in/out of the building. Higher sill height would pose problems as firefighter could incur a fall when entering the building and restrict movement.
The minimum width of 850mm shall not include a mullion usually found in casement windows. The provision of mullion would reduce the access opening. This would cause difficulties to firefighters when trying to get into or out of the building, carrying with them equipment or injured occupant.
(2) Position
Fire access openings shall be remote from each other and located along the side of the building. Such fire access openings shall be spaced at most 20m apart measured along the external wall from centre to centre of the fire access openings. The fire access opening shall be distributed such that there is at least one opening at every 20m of the fire engine accessway, except for parts of the non-PG VI or non-PG VIII building that are single-storey.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 4.2.3e.(2) : Fire access opening to building for firefighting
-1.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=f785b90f_1 "Fg.4.2.3e(2)-1")
Figure 4.2.3e.(2) - 1
As the compartments are not accessible from one another, each compartment shall be provided with at least one access opening. FAPs are provided along the external wall overlooking the fire engine accessway.
-2.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=d0875099_1 "Fg.4.2.3e(2)-2")
Not acceptable
Figure 4.2.3e.(2) - 2
-3.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=ee6c4c08_1 "Fg.4.2.3e(2)-3")
Acceptable
Figure 4.2.3e.(2) - 3
Location of access openings should not be rigidly governed by the 20m-apart rule, as access panels should open into “habitable space” Thus, providing access openings at a “dead space” or “store room” is not allowed. However, access openings at the following areas should be avoided:
a. Staircases
b. Smoke stop lobbies
The distance between access openings may vary as deemed fit. It is not necessary to be 20m all the time. In some circumstances, it may be less than 20m, depending on the shape of the building, the floor layout and the usage of the various rooms at which access panels are being provided.
Access openings are meant for conducting rescue operation and fighting fires from the outside, while the firefighter rides on an aerial ladder. Providing an access opening in the staircase will not serve much purpose. It is unlikely that the fire is in the staircase; and gaining access into the staircase directly should be possible without having to do it from the firefighting appliances.
-4.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=78744449_1 "Fg.4.2.3e(2)-4")
Acceptable
Figure 4.2.3e.(2) - 4
In situation where void or atrium interferes with the siting of FAPs, for example, FAPs 3 and 4 as shown in the above figure, QPs should consult the SCDF to determine the alternative suitable location for the affected FAPs and the adequacy of the overall provision per storey of the building up to 90m habitable height.
FAP 3 and FAP 4 shall have direct access to the commercial floor.
-5.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=d409f278_1 "Fg.4.2.3e(2)-5")
Figure 4.2.3e.(2) - 5
In long narrow sites, the provision of fire engine accessway would affect the layout of the building. To compensate for the lack of fire engine accessway, it would be necessary to provide internal firefighting facilities such as sprinkler system, fire lift, wet or dry rising main. QPs shall obtain waiver approvals prior to making building plan submission.
(3) Fire access opening to compartment or spaces
(a) For buildings under PG III, IV, V and VII exceeding the habitable height of 10m, and up to 90m, fire access openings are required at every storey level, other than the 1st storey, and shall face the fire engine accessway directly.
(b) For building under PG VI and VIII, fire engine access openings located over a fire engine accessway shall be provided along the external walls, up to a habitable height of 90m.
Effective Date: 01 Mar 2019
Amendment History
| 4.2.3e.(3) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
Revised, formerly Cl.4.2.3(f) |
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(4) Additional openings for ventilation
For buildings under PG III to VIII where an area or space has a ceiling height greater than 10m, additional high level ventilation openings for smoke venting and firefighting purposes shall be provided and located in the external walls opening into the
area or space, except for an area or space that is provided with engineered smoke control system and/ or smoke purging system. The ventilation opening shall meet the following criteria:
(a) the number and location of the openings shall comply with Cl.4.2.3e.(1) and Cl.4.2.3e.(2).
(b) the dimensions of the openings shall comply with Cl.4.2.3d.;
(c) the openings can be in the form of openable panels/louvres, breakable glazing, or permanent openings; and
(d) the openings shall not be indicated with the triangular signage as mentioned under Cl.4.2.3c.,
but instead be labelled with red wording, “DO NOT ENTER – FOR SMOKE VENTING ONLY”, of height not less than 50mm and visible from the building exterior.
Effective Date: 1 Mar 2024
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Rationale - Clause 4.2.3e.(4)
The additional high level ventilation openings are meant for use by firefighters to vent out the smoke so as to facilitate firefighting and rescue operations.
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Explanations & Illustrations
Clause 4.2.3e.(4) : Fire access opening to building for firefighting
.tmb-firecode.png?Culture=en&sfvrsn=70f92794_1 "Fg.4.2.3e(4)")
Figure 4.2.3e.(4) : High level access opening
The additional openings are meant for smoke venting. They shall be labelled as ‘Smoke Vent’ of size not less than 50mm in height.
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Note to QPs on Clause 4.2.3e.(4)
Refer to Table 9.8B for smoke control requirements for general warehouse.
Amendment History
| 4.2.3e.(4) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
Revised, formerly Cl.4.2.3(f)(iv) |
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| 4.2.3e.(4) (dated 25 Aug 2023) |
1 Mar 2024 |
1 Mar 2024 |
Revised/Clarifications |
4.2.3e.(4) Additional openings for ventilation
For buildings under PG III to VIII where an area or space has a ceiling height greater than 10m, additional high level ventilation openings for smoke venting and firefighting purposes shall be provided and located in the external walls opening into the area or space. The ventilation opening shall meet the following criteria:
(a) ……… |
25 Aug 2023 |
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f. Exemption
The provision of fire access openings shall not be applicable:
(1) buildings under PG I and II, including buildings of non-residential ancillary usage (such as a gym, club rooms open-to-sky roof garden, intermediate floor sky terrace, etc.) within the residential occupancy.
(2) aboveground multi-storey car park where parapet walls are provided to comply with ventilation requirements stipulated in Cl.3.2.8.
(2) The U-turn radii for firefighting appliances on a fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road shall comply with the requirements as shown in Diagram 4.2.2e..
Effective Date: 01 Mar 2019
Amendment History
| 4.2.2e.(2) |
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01 Mar 2019 |
Revised, formerly Cl.4.2.2(d)(vi) |
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