Govt introduces Registered Fire Engineers Scheme to streamline licensing for food businesses

Starting November 1, Hong Kong’s new Registered Fire Engineers Scheme will allow qualified professionals to conduct fire safety assessments for certain food business premises, following the passage of the Fire Services (Registered Fire Engineers) Regulation on September 26, aiming to simplify licensing processes while maintaining safety standards.

The Legislative Council passed the Fire Services (Registered Fire Engineers) Regulation yesterday (Sep 26), paving the way for the implementation of the Registered Fire Engineers Scheme, set to begin on November 1. 

This initiative aims to streamline the licensing process for specific premises while ensuring compliance with stringent fire safety standards.

Currently, any individual or business seeking to operate a licensed premises, such as a restaurant or food factory, must obtain a certificate or notice from the Fire Services Department confirming that the premises meet all relevant fire safety requirements. 

This ensures that occupants are not exposed to unnecessary fire risks before regulatory authorities issue the necessary licenses.

Under the new scheme, registered fire engineers will be authorized to conduct fire safety risk assessments and issue certificates for license applicants of designated premises, leveraging professional expertise to facilitate business operations. 

The Fire Services Department will implement the scheme in phases, allowing engineers to build experience and expertise. 

This approach is designed to establish a solid foundation for handling a wider range of licensed premises with potentially higher fire safety risks in the future.

The initial phase of the scheme will focus on food-related businesses, including general restaurants, snack shops, factory canteens, composite food shops, and food manufacturing facilities, such as bakeries. 

By involving qualified professionals in the licensing process, the scheme aims to enhance efficiency while upholding safety, supporting Hong Kong’s business environment and its pool of skilled professionals.