Hong Kong data-centre fire requirements: design and project coordination

Circular 2/2025 adds data centres to the FSI Code, applying from 1 August 2025 to specified new-building and major-alteration plan submissions. A small server room should not be classified solely by its label.

The amendment covers multiple fire systems, including provision for areas where water is undesirable. The design team should review each zone and the complete requirements rather than assume one suppression type serves the entire facility.

For an initial review, prepare rack, battery-room, plant-room, raised-floor and ceiling layouts with expansion plans. Identify unresolved density or configuration assumptions so the team knows what still needs confirmation.

Use an interface schedule to assign alarm, ventilation, power, access-control and monitoring responsibilities, with a coordinated test sequence. Explain operational availability needs early so the works can be planned around them.

Redundancy or operational availability targets do not establish compliance with fire requirements. Track fire-equipment tests, documentation and authority procedures as distinct handover deliverables.

When comparing quotes, check night work, phased testing, specialist equipment and documentation. For changes in an operating facility, agree outage coordination and reinstatement responsibilities with the client before scheduling work.