The Registered Fire Engineers Scheme (RFES), as announced in the 2025 Policy Address, represents a significant step forward in promoting fire safety professionalism and fostering industry growth. We fully support this initiative and welcome the Government's efforts to introduce third-party certification measures that enhance operational efficiency and facilitate business processes.

The RFES aims to introduce certified fire engineers into the private market, providing a professional alternative for fire safety approval services. Under this scheme, license applicants can engage Registered Fire Engineers (RFEs) to conduct fire safety risk assessments and verifications, offering greater flexibility and reducing reliance on the Fire Services Department (FSD). This reform is designed to maintain the highest fire safety standards while significantly shortening approval times, enabling businesses to operate more efficiently.

For the hotel industry, time is of the essence. During the waiting period for fire safety approval, hotels incur operational costs without generating revenue. With the RFES, hotel operators will be able to expedite fire safety-related approval processes, reducing vacancy periods and improving capital utilization. Furthermore, RFEs can assist in handling complex documentation, allowing operators to focus on their core business operations and dedicate more resources to improving service quality.

We appreciate the FSD’s efforts to consult closely with professional bodies and industry stakeholders during the development of the RFES. The phased implementation approach, coupled with clear practical guidelines, has garnered widespread industry support. We urge the Government to prioritize the expansion of the RFES to include hotels and other licensed premises, so that more sectors can benefit from its efficiencies.

The full implementation of the RFES will enhance Hong Kong’s standing as an international business and tourism hub. By streamlining fire safety approvals and introducing professional alternatives, the scheme will not only strengthen fire safety measures but also empower industries to thrive in a competitive market. We remain committed to working closely with the Government and relevant departments to support the successful rollout of this initiative.

Details of the Scheme is available here at the Fire Services Department website

For any enquiries regarding the “Registered Fire Engineer Scheme” or the professional development courses organised by FSD, please feel free to contact us by email at rfes@hkfsd.gov.hk.