Chapter 10
Requirements for Special Installations
Chapter 10 governs the fire safety requirements for four categories of special installations: LPG cylinder systems, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, energy storage systems (ESS), and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. It prescribes separation distances, maximum quantities, ventilation standards, and emergency disconnection requirements. Designers and Qualified Persons must ensure each installation type meets the specific siting, protection, and safety provisions before obtaining regulatory approval.
Scope: Applies to commercial, industrial and residential premises installing LPG cylinders for cooking or industrial hot works; buildings with roof-mounted, wall-mounted or wall-integrated PV systems; any premises installing battery-based energy storage systems above threshold stored energy; and buildings with EV charging stations (except PG I buildings for EV requirements).
Source: SCDF Code of Practice for Fire Precautions in Buildings 2023. This is a guidance summary — always verify against the full Fire Code clause text.
Critical points
Gas leak detection system shall be provided in all areas/rooms/compartments involving LPG piping regardless of ventilation type; it must automatically shut off gas supply and sound alarm upon detection.
CriticalClause 10.1.5aA fail-safe central solenoid isolation valve interlocked with the gas leak detection system shall be installed at the main pipe immediately outside the metal cabinet.
CriticalClause 10.1.5bThe LPG installation shall be within 45 m range from fire engine access road; fire hydrant shall be within 50 m range from the fire engine access road.
CriticalClause 10.1.5iHose reel coverage shall be provided for all LPG installations.
ImportantClause 10.1.5hReduced separation distances require: masonry enclosure with 2-hr fire-rated roof cover, 1-hr fire-rated access door, 75 mm low-level air gap, gas leak detector with alarm and strobe light, and total cylinders limited to 6.
ImportantClause 10.1.6LPG installations within back-lanes or service roads shall be accessible to firefighters from both ends.
ImportantClause 10.1.5j
Compliance thresholds
| Parameter | Value | Condition | Clause |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max distance from LPG installation to fire engine access road | 45 m | All LPG installations | Clause 10.1.5i |
| Max distance from fire hydrant to fire engine access road | 50 m | All LPG installations | Clause 10.1.5i |
| Min. alarm sounding duration (reduced separation scenario) | 3 minutes | Reduced separation distances application | Clause 10.1.6b(3) |
| Min. signage letter height (reduced separation scenario) | 50 mm | Red background, white lettering at LPG storage compartment | Clause 10.1.6b(4) |
| Max cylinders allowed under reduced separation distances | 6 cylinders total | Reduced separation regime only | Clause 10.1.6b(6) |
| Min. separation from common boundary (reduced separation) | 1.5 m | Between LPG installation and common boundary of abutting shop units | Clause 10.1.6a(1) |
| Min. separation from opposite property (reduced separation) | 3 m | Reduced separation distances application | Clause 10.1.6a(2) |
| Ventilation gap in reduced separation access door | 75 mm low-level air gap | Masonry enclosure with 1-hr fire-rated access door | Clause 10.1.6b(1) |
Interactive decision tree
Provide gas leak detection system in ALL areas/rooms/compartments with LPG piping (regardless of ventilation type). System must auto-shut-off gas supply and sound alarm. Install fail-safe solenoid isolation valve at main pipe outside cabinet.