Fire Alarms for All HDB Blocks

Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang asked the Minister for National Development whether the Ministry will consider installing fire alarm systems for all HDB blocks.

HDB buildings are designed to meet the prevailing Fire Code requirements.

Each residential unit is designed as a fire compartment to prevent the spread of fire to adjacent units. Fire-rated entrance door, walls and floors constructed of concrete and masonry will act as effective fire barriers. Common corridors and lift lobbies are also designed to be naturally ventilated for quick smoke dispersal. An adequate number of exit staircases located at an allowable distance from the unit entrances provide a safe means of escape out of the building in the event of a fire.

To facilitate fire-fighting, dry or wet rising mains, fire engine access roads, fire-fighting lobbies and firemen lifts are also provided, where required, under the Fire Code.

For standalone residential blocks, fire alarm systems and sprinkler systems are currently not required by the Fire Code due to the low risk of fire spread. However, for mixed developments, where there is integration of different uses – residential, commercial, social, communal and carparks – sprinkler or fire alarm systems will be installed, where required, by the Fire Code.