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Document Version: 2023

Fire Code

Site Planning & External Firefighting Provision

4.1

General

The purpose of this Chapter is to make provision for space around buildings to enable effective external firefighting operations.

4.2

Provision for External Access to Building for Firefighting and Accessibility of Site to Firefighting Appliances

4.2.1

General

Fire engine accessways/ fire engine access roads shall be provided to ensure site accessibility for firefighting appliances.
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.
Fire engine access roads shall have a clear width of at least 4m.
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

Provision
1. PG I and II buildings
  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:
  1. PG I buildings;
  2. PG II buildings of habitable height not exceeding 10m; and
  3. Cluster housing.

Explanations & Illustrations

Clause 4.2.2a.(1) : Fire engine accessway and fire engine access road

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.

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1. 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.
2. 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:
  1. 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..
  2. 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. 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.
  3. The fire engine accessway shall be designed to meet the specifications stipulated in Table 4.2A, Table 4.2D and Table 4.2E.

Explanations & Illustrations

Clause 4.2.2a.(3)(a) : Fire engine accessway and fire engine access road

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).

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.

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.
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.

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:

for interconnected floors, including basements connected to aboveground floors, the AFA shall be the aggregate AFA of all the interconnected floors, or
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.

TABLE 4.2.2a.(6) : LENGTH OF FIRE ENGINE ACCESSWAY FOR PG III, IV, V & VII BUILDINGS
AFA (m²)	Required length of perimeter
AFA (m²)	Non-sprinkler-protected	Sprinkler-protected
≤ 2000	⅙ (at least 15m)	⅙ (at least 15m)
> 2000 & ≤ 4000	¼	⅙ (at least 15m)
> 4000 & ≤ 8000	½	¼
> 8000 & ≤ 16000	¾	½
> 16000 & ≤ 32000	island site	¾
>32000	island site	island site

Explanations & Illustrations

Clause 4.2.2a.(6) : Fire engine accessway and fire engine access road

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 )

PG VI and VIII buildings

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
Cubicle Extent (m³)	Required length of perimeter
Cubicle Extent (m³)	Non-sprinkler-protected	Sprinkler-protected
≤ 28400	⅙ (at least 15m)	⅙ (at least 15m)
> 28400 & ≤ 56800	¼	⅙ (at least 15m)
> 56800 & ≤ 85200	½	¼
> 85200 & ≤ 113600	¾	¼
> 113600 & ≤ 170400	island site	½
> 170400 & ≤ 227200		¾
>227200		island site

Explanations & Illustrations

Clause 4.2.2a.(7) : Accessway/access road for fire fighting appliances

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 )

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.
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.
Sprinkler-protected buildings
For buildings protected by an automatic sprinkler system, the cubical extent of the buildings can be doubled.

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1. Mixed-use buildings
  1. 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.
  2. For mixed-use buildings without PG II usage, the length of fire engine accessway shall be computed based on the following, whichever is larger:
    1. the gross cubical extent of the PG VI or VIII usages; or
    2. the larger compartmented floor area, for purpose groups other than PG VI and VIII.
    3. 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.

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.
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.
Exception:
1. The horizontal distance can be extended to at most 13m, provided the height between the fire engine accessway and centre position of the following is not more than 20m:
  1. fire access openings, or
  2. windows of PG II residential units.
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.
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..
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..
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.):
1. the overhead clearance for passage of firefighting appliances shall be at least 4.5m;
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.

Explanations & Illustrations

Clause 4.2.2f.(1) : Fire engine accessway and fire engine access road

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.

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.

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.

Explanations & Illustrations

Clause 4.2.2g. : Fire engine accessway and fire engine access road

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.

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
  1. 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
  2. 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.

Explanations & Illustrations

Clause 4.2.2h. : Fire engine accessway and fire engine access road

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
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.
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).

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.

Rationale

Clause 4.2.2i.(2)

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.

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.
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.

Explanations & Illustrations

Clause 4.2.2k.

Note for turfed fire engine access driveway

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..

4.2.3

Fire access opening to building for firefighting

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, unless fitted with non-laminated and breakable glazing (e.g., float, annealed or heat strengthened glass). 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.

Explanations & Illustrations

Clause 4.2.3a. : Fire access opening to building for firefighting

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.

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.

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.
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.

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.

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.

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 finished floor level.
Exception:
1. The sill height can be extended to at most 1.25m for those fire access openings that are located at roof garden/ terrace.

Explanations & Illustrations

Clause 4.2.3d. : Fire access opening to building for firefighting

In Fig. (iii), although the height of access opening complies with the Clause (1000mm), the head height is less than 1800mm.

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.

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.

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.
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.
3. Fire access opening to compartment or spaces
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
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:
  1. the number and location of the openings shall comply with Cl.4.2.3e.(1) and Cl.4.2.3e.(2).
  2. the dimensions of the openings shall comply with Cl.4.2.3d.;
  3. the openings can be in the form of openable panels/louvres, breakable glazing, or permanent openings; and
  4. 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.

Explanations & Illustrations

Clause 4.2.3e.(2) : Fire access opening to building for firefighting

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.

Not acceptable Figure 4.2.3e.(2) - 2 — Not acceptable
Figure 4.2.3e.(2) - 2

Acceptable Figure 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:

Staircases
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.

Acceptable Figure 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.

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.

Clause 4.2.3e.(4) : Fire access opening to building for firefighting

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.

Note to QP

Clause 4.2.3e.(4)

Refer to Table 9.8B for smoke control requirements for general warehouse.

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.

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.

4.3

Access to Buildings with Rising Mains

Buildings fitted with rising mains and automatic sprinkler system shall have fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road for firefighting appliances within 18m of breeching inlets. The breeching inlets shall be visible from the fire engine accessways or fire engine access road.

Explanations & Illustrations

Breeching inlets should be visible from fire engine accessway to avoid delay in locating them upon arrival of fire crew. For better control and limit to one hose length being used, the breeching inlets shall not be sited more than 18m away from the fire engine accessway.

Rationale

Clause 4.3

The requirement for breeching inlets to be sited within 18m of the fire engine accessway/fire engine access road is for expediency of conducting firefighting operation. With this distance, only one length of hose would be needed for firefighters to provide water supply to the dry risers and/or fire water storage tanks.

Breeching inlets shall be visible from the fire engine accessway/access road to avoid delay in locating them upon arrival of the firefighting crew.

4.4

Private Fire Hydrant

4.4.1

Provision of private fire hydrant

General
Every part of a fire engine accessway and/ or fire engine access road shall be within an unobstructed distance of 50m from a fire hydrant. Where a public fire hydrant conforming to this requirement is not available, private fire hydrant(s) shall be provided. See Diagram 4.4.1a..
Use of public fire hydrant
Existing public fire hydrants along one side of a public road shall not be designated to serve developments sited on the other side of the public road, except for a road having at most two lanes, regardless of traffic direction.

Explanations & Illustrations

Clause 4.4.1a. : Provision of private hydrant

The distance of 50m is measured horizontally along the fire engine accessway.

Clause 4.4.1b. : Provision of private hydrant

All developments shall be provided with its own private hydrant. In the case of a new development where the existing public hydrant is within the stipulated coverage, such hydrant can be considered. To qualify for the relaxation, the existing public hydrant shall be within an unobstructed distance of 50m to every part of a fire engine access road and/or fire engine accessway.

If the existing public hydrant is sited across the other side of the public road, the said public hydrant is not allowed to serve the development if the public road is more than 2 lanes, regardless of direction of traffic flow.

Rationale

Clause 4.4.1b

Public roads with multiple lanes will likely have high volume of traffic. In the event where only one fire hydrant exists on the opposite side of the road, the traffic would be affected when firefighters utilise the hydrant. This will create congestion or result in road closure, thus disrupting the traffic flow.

Locations of fire hydrants
In situations where more than one private fire hydrants is required, the fire hydrants shall be located along the fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road such that every part of the fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road is within an unobstructed distance of 50m from any fire hydrant. See Diagram 4.4.1c..
Siting and types of fire hydrants
Siting and types of fire hydrants shall comply with the requirements stated in SS 575.

Explanations & Illustrations

Clause 4.4.1d. : Provision of private fire hydrant

Hydrant H1 is not required if the adjoining land is maintained as open space. However, if the land is later developed for new buildings or usages, provision of hydrant would be required.

Section Figure 4.4.1d. - 2 — **Section**
Figure 4.4.1d. - 2

The minimum 1000mm clearance between the building or retaining wall/boundary wall and fire hydrant is to allow the minimum working space for hose connection.

Section Figure 4.4.1d. - 4 — **Section**
Figure 4.4.1d. - 4

Ringed fire hydrant pipes
For a building that is required to have an island site fire engine accessway the fire hydrant pipe shall be a ring system. Isolation valves shall be provided on the fire hydrant ring such that on any section of ring, not more than one fire hydrant can be isolated when required for maintenance without affecting the water supply (both designed pressure and flow) to the other fire hydrants on the ring.
Valve locking device
A locking device shall be provided to lock the valves in open position during normal operation. Underground valves shall be kept in an open position at all times.

Explanations & Illustrations

Clause 4.4.1e. : Provision of private fire hydrant

Where the building is provided with island site fire engine accessway, the hydrant pipe serving hydrants within development shall be a ringed water supply system. This system to hydrant will ensure uninterrupted water supply to facilitate firefighting operation during a fire emergency. Isolation valves shall be provided at strategic locations such that any section of the ring (only one fire hydrant) scheduled for maintenance or repair shall not affect the water supply (pressure and flow) to other connected private hydrants. The hydrant ring pipe should be run above-ground or laid beneath earth. Where it is not practical (e.g. at road crossing), the section of underground hydrant pipe shall be appropriately supported to prevent any pipe leakage due to movements of vehicles above. Additional isolation valves should be provided at pipe sections just before and after the road crossing.

4.4.2

Water supply for private fire hydrant

The provision of water supply for a private fire hydrant system, where required by this Code, shall comply with the following requirements

Private fire hydrant at or below reduced level 125m
1. Private fire hydrants installed at reduced level 125m and below can receive direct supply from public water mains provided the flow and pressure from the public water mains meet the fire hydrant requirements as shown in Table 4.4A, or the following requirements are complied with:
  1. the AFA of the largest compartment shall not exceed 1000m² for PG III, IV, V & VII and not exceed 500m² for PG VI & VIII buildings. No AFA limit for covered car park in PG II, III, IV, V & VII buildings;
  2. the nominal bore of the fire hydrant pipe and the bulk water meter shall not be less than 150mm in diameter; and
  3. the running pressure/flow at the hydraulically most unfavourable fire hydrant of the private fire hydrant system shall comply with the following:
    1. running pressure >= 0.9 x (running pressure of the nearest public fire hydrant – pressure drop across the bulk water metre); and
    2. flow rate >= 0.9 x water flow of the nearest public fire hydrant or >= total flow demand (as required in Table 4.4A) of the private fire hydrant system, provided the running pressure at the most remote private fire hydrant is greater than 2 bars.
    Note:
    In calculating the frictional loss for the private fire hydrant system, the design flow rates shown in Table 4.4A shall be used. The pressure drop across bulk water metre shall not be more than 1 bar.
2. If the requirements stipulated in Cl.4.4.2a.(1) cannot be met, a storage tank of sufficient capacity meeting the flow rate and duration as specified in Table 4.4A with the requisite pumping facilities shall be provided.

Explanations & Illustrations

Clause 4.4.2a. : Water supply for private fire hydrant

There is a need to differentiate at RL 125m as public mains located at above RL 125m would not be able to provide the required water pressure. It is important that
hydrants annotated in building plan should be given their respective reduced levels.

Private hydrants that are sited at RL<125m are allowed to take the water supply from public water mains, which likewise should not be located above RL 125m.
There is a need to observe the RL<125m as the public water mains located at above RL 125m would not be able to provide the required pressure and flow rate for firefighting purposes.

It is therefore important that private hydrants and the supply public water mains annotated in building plans should be given their respective reduced levels.

Allowable losses in hydrant pipe

(Using Hazen-William’s formula)

P = [6.05 x Q^1.85 x 10⁷] / [C^1.85 x d^4.87]

Example :

Q = 27 L/s = 1620 L/min

d = 150mm = 0.15m

C = 140

P = 0.14173 kPa/m

Pressure after bulk meter (P1) = 300 kPa

Length of hydrant pipe = 180m

Number of bends = 4 nos.

Equivalent length of bends = 30m

Total equivalent length = 210m

Pressure loss in pipe = 29.76296 kPa

Pressure available at remote hydrant (P2) = 270.237 kPa

% loss in pressure = 0.90079 (Not < 90%)

Private fire hydrant above reduced level 125m
1. Where more than one private fire hydrant is located above reduced level 125m within the same plot, storage and pumping arrangements of water supply to these specified fire hydrants shall comply with the requirements stipulated in Cl.4.4.2c..
2. The private fire hydrant can be in the form of a dry fire hydrant, if it is not the sole fire hydrant within 50m from any breeching inlet(s) feeding firefighting systems for the building(s) within the plot of land, which include:
  1. automatic fire sprinkler systems, or
  2. dry riser systems, or
  3. wet riser systems.
3. A dry fire hydrant shall comply with all of the following requirements:
  1. A dry private fire hydrant shall be connected to a 150mm diameter dry pipe, which shall be connected at the other end to a four-way breeching inlet.
  2. This breeching inlet shall be within 18m from any fire engine accessway/fire engine access road having minimum 4m width and within 50m from any wet fire hydrant, private or public.
  3. The private dry pillar shall be painted in “yellow” and labelled “dry” on the fire hydrant pillar.
  4. A signage indicating the location of breeching inlet shall be positioned next to the dry private fire hydrant.
Water supply and storage requirement
Where more than one private fire hydrant is located above reduced level 125m within the same plot, storage and pumping arrangements of water supply to these specified fire hydrants shall comply with those for wet rising mains stipulated in SS 575 and Table 4.4A Water Supply & Storage Requirements for Private Fire Hydrant.

Explanations & Illustrations

Clause 4.4.2b.(1) : Water supply for private fire hydrant

The hydrants are required to be charged with water all the times so that firefighters could use them for feeding the breeching inlets and for firefighting purposes.

Clause 4.4.2b.(2) : Water supply for private fire hydrant

“Dry” hydrant is equivalent to the provision of dry rising main. Care should be taken to prevent accidental damage by vehicle etc. to the horizontal run of the pipe aboveground.

The dry pipe should be differently identified on site. The provision of dry hydrant is a relaxation as all hydrants are required to be fed with water at all times. This is allowed as the firefighters could use other hydrants located below RL 125 which are within 50m from the breeching inlets.

4.4.3

Protection of fire hydrant mains in buildings

All fire hydrant mains which pass through a building shall have its full length within the building protected with fire resistance construction complying with Cl.3.8.7b. of at least the same fire resistance as the element of structure, provided all of the following requirements are complied with:

The fire hydrant mains shall be located in common circulation areas, such as car parking spaces (except spaces used for mechanical car parking) and driveways, i.e. they shall not pass through private or confined spaces.
No services other than sprinkler pipe(s) shall be located above or crossing over the fire hydrant mains. Where services need to cross-over the hydrant mains, the following conditions shall be complied with:
1. the services shall only cross over the fire hydrants mains perpendicularly;
2. the tensile stress of the supports for the services shall not exceed 10N/mm²; and
3. the services shall be adequately protected by the building’s sprinkler system.
The fire hydrant mains shall be located away from explosion risk areas.
The protective enclosure to the fire hydrant mains shall be labelled with the words “FIRE HYDRANT MAIN” of minimum 50mm height at suitable intervals.

Explanations & Illustrations

Clause 4.4.3 : Protection of hydrant mains in building

Section Figure 4.4.3 - 1 — **Section**
Figure 4.4.3 - 1

Section A - A Figure 4.4.3 - 2 — **Section A - A**
Figure 4.4.3 - 2

Hydrant mains supplying water to hydrant shall be appropriately protected to prevent any damage arising from fire or mechanical impact from moving objects or the carrying out of addition/alteration works within the building. Water mains, which is damaged, would affect the water supply to the hydrant. This would in turn affect the firefighting operation in an emergency. Hydrant mains protected with dry protection e.g. boxed-up with fire-rated boards or sprayed on materials shall only be allowed to be routed or located in basement or floor protected by sprinkler system.

Rationale

Clause 4.4.3

Hydrant mains running passing through a building shall be appropriately protected to prevent any damage to the hydrant pipework by fire or any activities/works carried out in the building. The hydrant mains, if damaged, would affect the water supply to the hydrant(s) which in turn would affect the firefighting operation.

Cul-de-sac turning facility

U-turn radii

Dimensions of Turning Facilities for Firefighting Appliances

Dimensions of Turning Facilities for Firefighting Appliances
Parameters	Building Habitable Height
Parameters	≤ 10m*	> 10 & ≤ 50m^#	> 50m^#
R1	4.0m	6.5m	7.5m
R2	8.0m	10.5m	12.0m
R3	8.5m	12.0m	14.8m
L1	4.0m	4.0m	4.5m
L2	11.0m	16.0m	21.0m
L3	15.0m	28.1m	33.5m
L4	8.0m	10.5m	12.0m
Note: * - These dimensions are applicable to all PG except PG VI and VIII buildings, unless otherwise stated in Cl.4.2.2a.(1). For PG VI and VIII buildings ≤ 10m, it shall refer to (> 10 & ≤ 50) requirements, as indicated in Table 4.2C # - Not applicable to PG I buildings. For PG I buildings, it shall refer to (≤ 10m) requirements

Diagram 4.2.2e.: Turning facilities for firefighting appliances

Building Structure over Fire Engine Access Road

Diagram 4.2.2f.: Building structure over fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road

Diagram 4.2.2i.(2): Marking of fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road

Diagram 4.2.2i.(3): Pictogram signage for fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road

Diagram 4.2.2j.(1) - 1 & 2

Diagram 4.2.2j.(1) - 1: CPL 34 firefighting appliance - Wheels & jacks layout

Diagram 4.2.2j.(1) - 2: AL 56 & CPL 60 firefighting appliances - Wheels & jacks layout

Diagram 4.2.2j.(3) - 3: HLA 90 firefighting appliance - Wheels & jacks layout

Diagram 4.2.2l. Bi-directional fire engine accessway/fire engine access road

Diagram 4.4.1a.: Provision of private fire hydrant

Provision of Private Hydrant

Diagram 4.4.1c.: Siting of private fire hydrant

TABLE 4.2A: FIRE ENGINE ACCESSWAY/FIRE ENGINE ACCESS ROAD FOR PG II BUILDINGS

TABLE 4.2A: FIRE ENGINE ACCESSWAY/FIRE ENGINE ACCESS ROAD FOR PG II BUILDINGS
Details	Habitable Height (m)
Details	≤ 10	> 10 & ≤ 50	> 50
Width of fire engine access road	≥ 4m
Width of fire engine accessway*	Not required	≥ 6m	≥ 7m
Length of fire engine accessway*	-	≥ 15m	≥ 15m
Type of firefighting appliance	Pump ladder	CPL 34 & AL 56	AL 56, CPL 60 & HLA 90
Loading capacity of fire engine road^#	≥ 24 tonnes	≥ 30 tonnes	≥ 50 tonnes
Loading capacity of fire engine accessway^#	-	≥ 30 tonnes	≥ 50 tonnes
Axle/ Jack loading	-	See Table 4.2D & Table 4.2E
Turning facility	See Diagram 4.2.2e.
U-turn radii	See Diagram 4.2.2e.
Note: # - The appended figures for loading capacity of fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road are characteristic values * - A fire engine accessway of at least ¼ length of perimeter (minimum 15m), whichever is greater, shall be provided to access at least one facade of each block

TABLE 4.2B: FIRE ENGINE ACCESSWAY/FIRE ENGINE ACCESS ROAD FOR PG III, IV, V & VII BUILDINGS

TABLE 4.2B: FIRE ENGINE ACCESSWAY/FIRE ENGINE ACCESS ROAD FOR PG III, IV, V & VII BUILDINGS
Details	Habitable Height (m)
Details	≤ 10	> 10 & ≤ 50	> 50
Width of fire engine access road	≥ 4m
Width of fire engine accessway	Not required	≥ 6m	≥ 7m
Length of fire engine accessway	-	See Table 4.2.2a.(6)
Type of firefighting appliance	Pump ladder	CPL 34 & AL 56	AL 56, CPL 60 & HLA 90
Loading capacity of fire engine access road^#	≥ 24 tonnes	≥ 30 tonnes	≥ 50 tonnes
Loading capacity of fire engine accessway^#	-	≥ 30 tonnes	≥ 50 tonnes
Axle/ Jack loading	-	See Table 4.2D & Table 4.2E
Turning facility	See Diagram 4.2.2e.
U-turn radii	See Diagram 4.2.2e.
Note: ^# = The appended figures for loading capacity of fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road are characteristic values

TABLE 4.2C: FIRE ENGINE ACCESSWAY/FIRE ENGINE ACCESS ROAD FOR PG VI & VIII BUILDINGS

TABLE 4.2C: FIRE ENGINE ACCESSWAY/FIRE ENGINE ACCESS ROAD FOR PG VI & VIII BUILDINGS
Details	Habitable Height (m)
Details	≤ 10	> 10 & ≤ 50	> 50
Width of fire engine access road	≥ 4m
Width of fire engine accessway	≥ 6m	≥ 6m	≥ 7m
Length of fire engine accessway	See Table 4.2.2a.(7)
Type of firefighting appliance	CPL 34 & AL 56	CPL 34 & AL 56	AL 56, CPL 60 & HLA 90
Loading capacity of fire engine access road^#	≥ 30 tonnes	≥ 30 tonnes	≥ 50 tonnes
Loading capacity of fire engine accessway^#	≥ 30 tonnes	≥ 30 tonnes	≥ 50 tonnes
Axle/ Jack loading	See Table 4.2D & Table 4.2E
Turning facility	See Diagram 4.2.2e. under (>10 & ≤50)	See Diagram 4.2.2e.
U-turn radii	See Diagram 4.2.2e. under (>10 & ≤50)	See Diagram 4.2.2e.
Note: ^# = The appended figures for loading capacity of fire engine accessway/ fire engine access road are characteristic values

TABLE 4.2D: AXLE LOADING OF FIREFIGHTING APPLIANCES

TABLE 4.2D: AXLE LOADING OF FIREFIGHTING APPLIANCES
Axle No. (from font)	Type of firefighting appliances
	Pump Ladder		CPL 34		AL 56		CPL 60		HLA 90
	Loading Wt. (kg)	No of wheels	Loading Wt. (kg)	No of wheels	Loading Wt. (kg)	No of wheels	Loading Wt. (kg)	No of wheels	Loading Wt. (kg)	No of wheels
Axle 1	10000	2	7500	2	9000	2	9000	2	9000	2
Axle 2	14000	2	10500	2	10500	4	9900	4	9000	2
Axle 3	-	-	10500	4	10500	4	9900	4	10500	4
Axle 4	-	-	-	-	-	-	8200	2	10500	4
Axle 5	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	10000	2
Axle 6	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-
Note: The appended figures for axle loading are characteristic values

TABLE 4.2E: JACK LOADING OF FIREFIGHTING APPLIANCES

TABLE 4.2E: JACK LOADING OF FIREFIGHTING APPLIANCES
Type of Fire Appliance	CPL 34	AL 56	CPL 60	HLA 90
Jack load contact area	5625 cm²	5625 cm²	7125 cm²	7125 cm²
Maximum pressure per Jack (4 jacks per vehicle)	37 N/cm²	37 N/cm²	37 N/cm²	50 N/cm²
Note: The appended figures for jack loading are characteristic values

TABLE 4.4A: WATER SUPPLY & STORAGE REQUIREMENTS FOR PRIVATE FIRE HYDRANT

TABLE 4.4A: WATER SUPPLY & STORAGE REQUIREMENTS FOR PRIVATE FIRE HYDRANT
Purpose Group	Accessible Floor Area*	Minimum Flow Rate	Minimum Running Pressure	Minimum Water supply and Storage Duration
Purpose Group	(m²)	(L/s)	(bar)	(mins)
PG I & II	-	27	2	45
Covered car park not within PG VI & VIII buildings +	NL	38	2	45
PG III, IV, V & VII	≤ 1000	38	2	45
	> 1000 & ≤ 5000	57
	> 5000 & ≤ 10000	76
	> 10000	95
PG VI & VIII	≤ 500	38	2	90
	> 500 & ≤ 5000	57
	> 5000 & ≤ 10000	76
	> 10000 & ≤ 15000	95
	> 15000 & ≤ 20000	114
	> 20000	133
Note: NL - No limit * - Based on the Accessible Floor Area (AFA) of the largest compartment in the building + - This requirement is only applicable to car parking facilities within PG II, III, IV, V & VII buildings, either as a standalone multi-storey car park or within a building (above ground or below ground). The hydrant requirements for the remaining parts of the buildings shall comply with Cl.4.4.2a., Cl.4.4.2b. and Cl.4.4.2c.