DEVB TC(W) No. 3/2023, Annex A 5(12)(d)
Smart locks for hazardous areas: electronic lock and key access control
Clause 5(12)(d) of DEVB TC(W) No. 3/2023, Annex A, requires electronic locks that open only to authorised electronic keys on hazardous areas such as electrical cabinets, floor openings, confined spaces and lift shafts. A forced or outdated-key opening sounds a siren of at least 70 dB and alerts supervisors. Kodifly supplies, installs and runs the locks and keys.
What the circular requires, and how sites use it
The circular asks for an automated access control and warning system that stops unauthorised opening of locked covers, doorways and barriers to hazardous areas (clause 5(12)(d)(i)). The key point is the identity in the key. An electronic lock opens only to an authorised electronic key that carries its owner's identity (clause 5(12)(d)(ii)). The Buildings Department and CIC name it hazardous areas access control by electronic lock and key system.
On a Hong Kong site, that means a lock on the electrical distribution board, on the lift shaft opening and on the confined space entrance, each opened by a named person. The contractor keeps a register of keys and their authority, and reviews it periodically.
Hazardous areas named in clause 5(12)(d)(i)
The clause says the list is not limited to these. The contract drafter adjusts it to the contract.
Areas to lock
- Electrical distribution board cabinets.
- Floor openings of 500 mm x 500 mm or larger.
- Entrances to confined space areas.
- Lift shaft openings.
Requirements in Annex A, clause 5(12)(d)
| Topic | Clause | What it says |
|---|---|---|
| Authorised keys | (d)(ii) | The lock opens only to authorised electronic keys with the key owner's identity embedded. |
| Authority review | (d)(ii) | The contractor reviews and renews lock access authority periodically or as necessary. |
| Key register | (d)(ii) | An updated register of every electronic key issued and the locks it may open. No unauthorised duplication. |
| Siren and light | (d)(iii) | A forced opening or an outdated key triggers a siren of at least 70 dB, or a higher level as agreed, and/or a flashing red light. |
| Silencing | (d)(iii) | The siren stops only when the lock is re-engaged or an authorised key is used. |
| Alert message | (d)(iii) | SMS or in-app pop-up to site supervisors, the Safety Officer and the Registered Electrical Worker. |
| Record | (d)(iii) | Recorded at the platform with the lock location, date and time, and electronic key number. |
When a lock is forced
Attempt
Someone tries an outdated key, or forces the lock.
Warn
The siren sounds at the lock and the red light flashes.
Alert
Supervisors, the Safety Officer and the Registered Electrical Worker get an SMS or pop-up.
Record
The platform logs the lock location, date, time and key number.
Reset
The siren stops when the lock is re-engaged or an authorised key is used.
How Kodifly supplies, installs and runs it
Locks, keys, alerts and the key register are one package, joined to the same platform as the other 4S devices.
Devices, software and installation together
Electronic locks for cabinets, openings and shafts
Electronic keys with the owner's identity
Key register and authority review
Siren and flashing red light at the lock
Alerts to supervisors, Safety Officer and electrical worker
Lock event record on the platform
Fitting at each hazardous area
Smart locks for hazardous areas, answered
What does the circular require of hazardous area access control?
Electronic locks on hazardous areas that open only to authorised electronic keys, with a siren and alerts when someone tries to open one with an outdated key or by force (Annex A, clause 5(12)(d)).
Which areas must be locked?
The sample lists electrical distribution board cabinets, floor openings of 500 mm x 500 mm or larger, entrances to confined space areas and lift shaft openings (clause 5(12)(d)(i)). The drafter adjusts the list.
How loud must the siren be?
At least 70 dB, or a higher level agreed with the Project Manager or equivalent, and/or a flashing red light. It can be switched off only when the lock is re-engaged or an authorised key is used (clause 5(12)(d)(iii)).
Who is alerted when a lock is tampered with?
Site supervisors, the Safety Officer and the Registered Electrical Worker, by SMS or in-app pop-up, with the lock location, date and time, and electronic key number (clause 5(12)(d)(iii)).
What must the contractor keep for the keys?
An updated register of every electronic key issued, with the authority to open each lock. The contractor reviews and renews access authority periodically and prohibits unauthorised duplication (clause 5(12)(d)(ii)).
Where are the lock alerts recorded?
At the centralised management platform, or a control platform where the contract has no CMP, for the contractor's follow-up action (clause 5(12)(d)(iii)).
Related guides
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