Building fire codes and performance-based design in China: Mainland and Hong Kong

Many big construction projects are developed in China, including the Mainland and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (formerly Hong Kong before July 1, 1997). Consequent to several big fires with serious consequences, fire safety provisions will be assessed vigorously. As there are more overseas involvements in larger-scale construction projects in these two areas, it is interesting to compare the assessment and approval procedures of fire safety designs in the two areas. In this article, the building fire codes in. Mainland and Hong Kong will be briefly reviewed first. Application procedure for new project is outlined. These codes are basically prescriptive, buildings with new architectural features might have difficulties in complying with the specifications. Implementation of performance-based design is also discussed. Problems encountered are outlined, with improvements suggested.