Inspection & maintenance
TMFAD temporary manual alarms: arrangements during fire-alarm downtime
TMFAD measures under Circular 6/2026 took effect on 1 September 2026. Understand their temporary role, installation responsibilities and relationship to restoring the original alarm.
If there is fire or immediate danger
Leave the premises using a safe route and call Hong Kong emergency services on 999. Do not remain to investigate or use a lift.
Legal information
This guide helps with initial planning; it is not legal advice or an engineering assessment of your premises. Confirm the requirements against the use, approved plans, licence conditions, written directions and current official documents.
Quick answers
Does TMFAD allow the original alarm repair to be deferred?
Do not use a temporary measure as a reason to defer repairs. Keep the original system's downtime as short as practicable and follow the applicable restoration requirements.
Match the temporary measure to the lost function
TMFAD is a temporary standby measure when the fire alarm is not in efficient working order. Circular 6/2026 took effect on 1 September 2026 and is read with the shutdown arrangements in Circular 1/2021.
Keep the original system's repair plan active alongside the temporary arrangement. Ask the contractor to explain the functions lost, applicable precautions and planned restoration; a standby device is not a permanent repair.
Use the required contractor and on-site tests
The circular requires a Class 2 contractor to install devices beside each existing manual call point in the affected area, complete testing and follow the applicable FS251 process. A retail alarm bought independently is not equivalent.
Ask the quote to identify quantities, positions, power arrangements and routine responsibilities, with confirmation that the selected device meets the specification. Include operating information and fault reporting in staff handovers.
Track temporary provision alongside repair progress
Keep a short register of temporary-device positions, test records, responsible contacts and original-system repair progress. Route low-battery or fault indications through the agreed maintenance arrangement.
After the original system is repaired, have the contractor confirm testing, reinstatement and the next steps for temporary equipment. Do not remove standby devices solely because the planned completion date has arrived.
Practical checklist
- Identify alarm failure and affected areas
- Check contractor class and device specification
- Record positions, power and testing
- Assign routine checks and a fault contact
- Track original-system repair and reinstatement
Discuss alarm repairs and temporary measures
Share the affected area, existing call-point positions and management contact to help us review the site and repair coordination.
- Review faults and original-system repair scope
- Assess temporary-measure and installation needs
- Testing, documentation and reinstatement follow-up
Official sources
The official documents below provide the full requirements and any updates.
Related reading
Fire-system shutdowns in Hong Kong: reporting, notices and reinstatement
A fire-system shutdown needs a plan for affected systems, connected functions, notices and reinstatement. Prepare these with management and the contractor before work starts.
Read articleDefective fire-installation notices: a follow-up guide for managers and owners
A defect notice calls for a clear repair follow-up. Understand affected functions, the 2026 notice and power-seal measures, and the records to request when service is restored.
Read articleFire alarm and detection annual inspections: a preparation checklist
Manual alarms and automatic detection use distinct checklists. Prepare system plans, device lists, access and interface testing, then follow up defects and FS251 records.
Read articleRELATED SERVICE
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