OG - Sec 5 - Submission of Plans and Calculations

CIVIL & STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING DIVISION
OPERATION GUIDELINES
5. SUBMISSION OF PLANS AND CALCULATIONS
CONTENTS
5.1 SUBMISSION OF PLANS AND CALCULATIONS
5.2 EXTERNAL WORKS
5.3 CD SHELTER
5.1 SUBMISSION OF STRUCTURAL PLANS AND CALCULATIONS
5.1.1 General Requirement
The Building Control Act and Regulations require that all plans
submitted for Building Plan approval shall be submitted together with
all detailed structural plans and design calculations. Submission of
building and structural plans to BCA is usually by the design architect
and the structural design Professional Engineer (PE) respectively. All
structural plans and calculations to be submitted must be stamped and
signed by the structural design PE. The structural design calculations
and drawings shall also be checked and endorsed by an independent
Accredited Checker (usually from the private sector) for non-
government or agency projects. For government projects,
endorsement by the equivalent structural design PE (in-house) and an
equivalent accredited checker is acceptable for submission. The
drawings to be submitted are required to be folded in a certain manner
sheet by sheet specified in the Act. Planning approval (or in-principle
approval) for the project must be obtained first by the design architect
prior to structural submission to BCA. It should be noted that without
planning approval, in principle approval or otherwise, BCA will not
issue permit for work to commence.
5.1.2 Submission of Structural Plans (Including Piling Plans)
a) The detailed structural plans with endorsement stamps from PE

and AC are to be submitted in duplicate and one set is required to
be mounted on linen. The submission forms applicable are Form
BEV A1, Form BEV A2 (this form is for certification by AC), Form
BEV B1 and Appendix 1 & 2 to Form BEV B1, and
BPD_BP03_Appendix 1 (submission by PE). Calculations are also
to be submitted at the same time. After approval is given, a set of
the detailed structural plans would be returned to the PE with the
stamped approval endorsement by BCA. The following should be
noted:
i) Every plan is to be signed by the qualified person (the PE). The

AC is also required to sign on every plan.
ii) Every floor plan is required to show the designed imposed load
for the respective areas. This may be in the form of small key
plan presentation.
iii) The first and the last sheet of the set of structural plans must
bear the Design Professional Engineers Standard Certification
On Plans And Design Calculations stamp. The stamp is
required to show the total number of structural plans submitted
and the total number of pages of design calculations. A sample
of the description of the stamp is shown in Annex A.
iv) The first and the last sheet must also bear the Accredited
Checkers Standard Certification On Structural Plans And
Design Calculations stamp.
v) The types of foundation to be used, the types of piles and a brief

statement on the method of installation of piles are required to
be shown on the structural plans especially for non-conventional
piling system.
vi) It is necessary to have one sheet of the plans (front sheet)

showing the general notes which should include information on
the concrete grade, the strength of steel reinforcements to be
used, the concrete cover, grade of weldable structural steel and
any other information necessary for the construction.
vii) One set of architectural Building Plans bearing the original

signature of the design architect on every sheet is also required
to be submitted at the same time.
5.1.3 Submission of Design Calculations
a) All design calculations done by the PE including any computer

print-outs are to be bound and submitted in 1 set together with the
detailed structural plans.
b) The first and last page of each book calculations must bear the
Design Professional Engineers Standard Certification On
Structural Plans And Design Calculations stamp as well as the

standard AC certification stamp.
c) Every page of the design calculations is to be numbered and the

design calculations are to be presented in a clear and logical
sequence. A page on content is required in every calculation book.
d) The design calculations should also contain the followings:
i) An index sheet giving an appreciation of the overall layout for

ease of reference of the volumes of calculations submitted.
ii) A design information sheet giving a summary of design

information covering code of practice used, designed live load,
materials strength, including soil investigation report, foundation
system, general assumptions etc.
iii) A structural summary sheet giving information on the overall

design structural system, type of structure, provision of overall
stability and structural analysis, and any explanation of the
idealization of the structure and load combination.
iv) A sheet on grouping of structural elements showing a list of

designed structural elements that are in the group.
v) A sheet on structural analysis and design of structural

elements setting out the detailed design and calculations in
accordance with the relevant code of practice.
e) If applicable, the design calculations should be accompanied by

results of any soil investigation done, calculations for determination
of soil bearing capacity and including design of the foundation
system. As an example, if bored pile foundation is used, the
calculations should show the computations giving rise to the
selection of the diameters of the bored piles for each load capacity
including the estimated pile lengths for each working load pile. The
details of steel reinforcements as well as the concrete grade should
also be indicated.
f) If computer program is used, the PE is required to give information

on the details of the program including any assumptions and
limitations if the computer program used has not been previously
checked and approved by BCA. The inputs and outputs from the
program are to be endorsed and submitted as part of the design
calculations.
g) The submission should be accompanied by the AC evaluation

certification and calculations report which must also be properly
bound into a book.
5.1.4 Forms To Be Submitted
The necessary submission forms are as listed below. The list of forms
is also applicable for submission of piling plans. A set of these forms is
attached in Annex A.
a) Form BPD_BP03_Appendix 1: Plan Fee Computation For Building/

Relevant Structural Plans (where applicable-submission ahead of
architectural building plans)
b) Form BEV A1: Application For Approval Of Site Formation/ Piling/

Structural Plans And Calculations Or Amendment To Piling /
Structural Plans And Calculations
c) Form BEV A1_RW: Declaration By Qualified Person For Structural

Works For Approval Of Structural Plan (Retaining Wall)
d) Form BEV A2: Accredited Checkers Evaluation Certificate
5.1.5 Staggering Of Submission
a) Generally the submission can be carried out in 2 stages, the first

stage for piling works and the 2nd stage for detailed building
structural plans. This is usually done with the purpose of obtaining
approval to carry out piling works even before detailed structural
design for buildings works is completed to take advantage of time
available to commence construction.
b) Piling Plans Submission
The 1st stage piling plans submission should include the following:
i) The set of submission forms is same as for the detail structural

plans submission.
ii) Column layout loading plans and piling plans. The piling plans
should also include the dimension of piles, estimated
penetration lengths, details of steel reinforcements, the grade of
concrete to be used in addition to piles layout and locations. It
is acceptable that pile layout plans with information on pile
sizes, arrangement, etc. be submitted after piling tender is
awarded.
iii) A calculation report by the PE showing how column loads or pile

loads are determined. The simplified area method of computing
for pile loads is acceptable for submission. The calculation
report is also required to show how pile penetration length is
determined and the soil parameters are been used.
iv) A copy of soil investigation report together with the bore-logs.
v) All the piling plans and calculations report are to be endorsed by

the design PE and the AC, same as for submission of detail
structural plans.
5.1.6 Application For Permit To Commence Structural Works
The engineer has to submit application to BCA for permit to commence

structural/ piling works prior to carrying out any structural works. The
necessary forms for this application are as listed below. A set is
shown in the Annex B.
a) Form BEV B1: Joint Application For Permit To Commence Piling/

Structural / Building Works
b) Appendix 1 to Form BEV B2: Schedule Of Structural Works For

The Next Quarter
c) Appendix 2 to Form BEV B1: Building Project Data For Research &
Statistics Unit
d) Appendix 1 to Form BEV B1: Declaration On The Planning

Approval Status Of The Building Project
e) Form BEV B2: Quarterly Structural Report

5.1.7 Submission for Completion of Structural/ Piling Works
After structural/ piling works are completed, the PE is required to

submit a set of as-built structural plans (mounted on linen) together
with amended calculations. The submission of as-built detailed
structural plans is not required if no amendment has been made. For
piling works, the as-built plans must show pile eccentricities and
penetration lengths. The forms applicable are listed below. A set of
samples of these forms is shown in Annex C.
a) Form BEV C1: The Professional Engineers Certificate Of

Supervision Of Piling Works
b) Form BEV C2: The Professional Engineers Certificate Of

Supervision Of Structural Works
c) Form BEV C3: Submission Certificate Of As-Built Structural Plans/

Calculations
5.1.8 List Of Forms Enclosed In Annexes
5.1.8.1 Annex A (For design submission stage)
Forms enclosed:
a) Form BPD_BP03_Appendix1: PLAN FEE COMPUTATION FOR

BUILDING/ RELEVANT STRUCUTRAL PLANS
b) Form BEV A1: APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF SITE

FORMATION/ PILING/ STRUCTURAL PLANS AND
CALCULATIONS OR AMENDMENT TO PILING/ STRUCTURAL
PLANS AND CALCULATIONS
c) Form BEV A2: ACCREDITED CHECKERS EVALUATION

CERTIFICATE
d) Form BEV A1_RW: DECLARATION BY QUALIFIED PERSON

FOR STRUCTURAL WORKS FOR APPROVAL OF STRUCTURAL
PLAN (RETAINING WALL)
5.1.8.2 Annex B (For construction stage)
Forms enclosed:
a) Form BEV B1: JOINT APPLICATION FOR PERMIT TO

COMMENCE/ RECOMMENCE DEMOLITION/ SITE FORMATION/
PILING/ STRUCTURAL/ BUILDING WORKS
b) Appendix 1 to Form BEV B2: SCHEDULE OF STRUCTURAL

WORKS FOR THE NEXT QUARTER
c) Appendix 2 to Form BEV B1: BUILDING PROJECT DATA FOR

RESEARCH & STATISTICS UNIT
d) Appendix 1 to Form BEV B1: DECLARATION ON PLANNING

APPROVAL STATUS OF THE BUILDING PROJECT AT THE
TIME OF SUBMISSION OF THE JOINT APPLICATION FOR
PERMIT TO COMMENCE PILING/ STRUCTURAL/ BUILDING
WORKS
e) Form BEV B2: QUARTERLY STRUCTURAL REPORT

5.1.8.3 Annex C (Submission for completion of construction)
Forms enclosed:
a) Form BEV C1: THE PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS

CERTIFICATE OF SUPERVISION OF PILING WORKS & NOTICE
OF COMPLETION FOR STRUCTURAL WORKS
b) Form BEV C2: THE PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS

CERTIFICATION OF SUPERVISION OF STRUCTURAL WORKS
c) Form BEV C3: SUBMISSION CERTIFICATE OF AS-BUILT

STRUCTURAL PLANS/ CALCULATIONS
5.2 EXTERNAL WORKS
5.2.1 Introduction
The external work manual is introduced to help engineers in the

procedural submissions to and obtaining clearance from various local
governmental departments under the responsibility of civil engineer in
the design and submission of the external works.
This manual consists of the followings:
a) Building Plan (BP)

b) Certificate of Statutory Completion (CSC)
5.2.2 General Information
5.2.2.1 Design
All external work design will be carried out by the External Work Team
(EWT) basing on information provided by the Projects' Engineer.
5.2.2.2 Code Of Practice
a) LTA: Guide to Submission of Street and Vehicle Parking

Proposals in Building Control
b) CBPU: Surface Water Drainage (2000 Edition)
Sewerage and Sanitary Works (2000 Edition)
c) NParks: Guidelines Annex 1-11
5.2.2.3 Submission and BP Clearance
The type of submission required and what authority to submit to will be

identified by the EWT who then proceeds to prepare the relevant
drawings and details and the standard forms.
Upon full compliance with authority's requirements, BP clearance on

the submission will be issued independently from each authority. This
clearance is issued for the design only. The BP clearances obtained
from each authority are then submitted to BCA for the final issue of the
BCA clearance on BP submission.
5.2.2.4 CSC Clearance
Having completed the construction of all external work, the Certificate

of Statutory Completion (CSC) Clearance will be sought. This CSC
clearance is issued for completing the external work in accordance
with the approved drawings in (5.2.2.2) above.
The CSC clearances obtained from each authority will then be

submitted to the Architect for the final clearance of the project CSC.
5.2.3 Procedure on Building Plans Submission System
a) Under the new BP system, a Qualified Person (QP) will issue a

Project reference number himself which will unique to his project.
b) The QP lodge Project reference no. and Project description to BCA.

He requires to submit Form BCA BPN QP-0 I is attached Appendix
I to Form BCA BPN QP-0 I is attached and a copy of site plans.
c) With this project number (Appendix I to Form BCA BPN QP-01), he

can proceed to submit plans to the relevant technical departments
for clearances.
d) When the QP is confident that all the clearances will be obtained

within the next 2 weeks, he will proceed to submit his BP to BCA.
e) QP's only need to submit one set of BP (this set of BP needs not be
mounded on linen) and Form BCA BPN AI -0 I (includes Appendix I
& 2) is attached to BCA.
Note: A copy of Written Permission and Planning Approved Plan

might require. It depends on the project description).
f) The work-flow for the BP Submission System is given in 5.2.6.

5.2.4 Procedures On Application Of Certificate Of Statutory Completion

(CSC) Clearance
These procedures apply to the following authority:
a) Land Transport Authority (LTA)

b) Drainage/Environment Health Department (DRA/EHD)
c) National Parks Board (NParks)
5.2.4.1 CSC Pre-inspection Stage
a) To make an arrangement with main contractor to check full

compliance on site according to our approved BP drawings.
b) Engineer to issue necessary directions to main contractor for all

non-compliance and to be completed within specified time frame.
c) When all non-compliance is completed to our satisfaction, Engineer

to apply for official CSC inspection with relevant authority.
5.2.4.2 Authority CSC Inspection Stage
a) Engineer to arrange for appointment with relevant authority officer

for inspection.
b) Pre-record all verbal instruction from officer to be issued to main

contractor for immediate action. The official written directions from
authority will be received within one to two weeks later.
c) Upon receiving the official written direction from the authority,

Engineer will issue it to the contractor.
d) If the written direction involves additional works, Architect to issue

Architect's Instruction to main contractor for the work.
e) If the written direction does not involve additional works, Architect's

Direction to be followed.
f) Repeat item 5.2.4.2(a) upon CSC rectification items completion.

(Re-inspection for CSC clearance)
5.2.5 Information Required For The Following Relevant Authority Regarding

CSC Application
5.2.5.1 For Drainage Authority
a) Three sets of As-Built survey drawings certified by registered

surveyor from main contractor. (2 sets for authority and I set for our
office record)
i) As-Built drawings showing all extent of alignment, longitudinal

section and cross-section of the constructed drain and entrance
culvert.
ii) Piling type, size, spacing and penetration length to indicate on

longitudinal section provided for the constructed drain and
entrance culvert.
b) The following submission form and necessary document to be

prepared for application of CSC clearance:
i) Application for TOP/CSC clearance (Central Building Plan Unit)

ii) Certificate of Supervision for Construction of Drainage Works
iii) Certificate of Completion of Drainage Works
iv) Certificate of Submission for Application of Certificate of
Statutory Completion (CSC) Clearance (Annex 4)
v) CBPU BP Clearance Form I
vi) Letters from Sewerage Department for the taking over, if
necessary when project is involved in sewerage.
vii) A set of drainage checklist for reference.
viii)Two sets of As-Built survey drawings certified by registered
surveyor.
5.2.5.2 For National Parks Board
a) Engineer to produce good records of photographic evidence of

preparation of tree planting pits and approved soil for backfilling.
(These photographs will be produce to the authority during the site
inspection)
b) For project which involves in shrub or herbs planting, minimum of

600 mm depth to be excavate and fill with loamy soil for planting.
c) For projects not involved in turf-mg and tree planting, we still need
to write in to ask for CSC clearance.
d) Under National Parks Board requirement, existing turfing area at

minimum 5m and maximum up to 10m away from our proposed
entrance culvert is to be included in CSC inspection.
e) The follow submission forms and necessary document to be

prepared for application of CSC clearance:
i) Request for CSC inspection
ii) Certificate of Supervision of Aeration Trough Installation (if

necessary when tree planting is involved)
iii) NParks BP clearance
5.2.5.3 For Land Transport And Authority
a) Not Under Section 18, SWA
The following submission forms and necessary document to be

prepared for application of CSC clearance.
i) Certificate of Supervision (Roads and Transport)

ii) LTA BP clearance
b) Under Land Transport Authority requirement, existing footpath at

minimum 6m and maximum up to 10m away from our proposed
entrance culvert is to be included in CSC inspection. (Ramp at
gradient 1:12 is to be provided unless otherwise stated by
Authority.
5.2.6 Procedures on Processing BP Submission
a) Procedures on processing BP Submission to BCA for approval
PE Lodge Projects Reference No.

&
Description to BCA
PE Submit Plans to PE Submit Plans to PE Submit Plans to

LTA CBPU NPARKS
LTA Office Issue CBPU Office Issue BP Nparks Office Issue BP

BP Clearance Clearance Clearance
PE submit formal application to BCA
BCA Issue Notice of Approval

b) Procedures on processing BP Submission to LTA for approval
PE
Submit Plans
To LTA
LTA Office No PE Amend

Check &
Plans Resubmit Plans
OK
LTA Office
Issue
BP Clearance
c) Procedures on processing BP Submission to CBPU for approval
PE Submit Plans & Checklist to CBPU
CBPU PE Amend
Office NO &
Check Resubmit
Plans Plans
OK
CBPU Office Issue

BP Clearance
d) Procedures on processing BP Submission to Nparks for approval
PE Submit Plans & Checklist to NParks
NParks PE Amend
Office NO &
Check Resubmit
Plans Plans
OK
NParks Office Issue

SWA Clearance
5.2.7 Procedures on CSC Application
a) Procedures on CSC Application to BCA
PE Application CSC to All Relevant Authorities
pp
CBPU NParks LTA
CBPU Office issue Nparks Office issue LTA Office issue

CSC Clearance CSC Clearance CSC
Clearance
PE submit all clearance to Architect
Architect submit all clearance to BCA
BCA issue Building clearance to Architect

b) Application procedures for LTA CSC Clearance.
CSC Application
Reinspection
CSC Inspection NO Rectification Works
OK
Authority issues CSC

clearance
c) Application procedures for CBPU CSC Clearance.
CSC
Application
Re-inspection
NO Rectification
CSC Works
Inspection
OK
Authority issues
CSC CSC Form 11 Clearance for
Clearance Application Form 11
12 month DLP
DLP-Expire
Application
Re-inspection
DLP-Expire NO Rectification
Inspection Works
OK
DLP
Clearance
d) Application procedures for NParks CSC Clearance
CSC Application
Re-inspection
1*
CSC Inspection NO Rectification Works
YES
CSC Clearance
*1: In project where Nparks is not involved in our external work design.
Engineer needs to submit BP for clearance and CSC also for
clearance later.
5.3 CD SHELTER
5.3.1 General
Civil defence shelters are productive structures designed to provide

protection to the shelterees in time of emergency. These include
Public Shelters and Household Shelters (HS). The structures consist
of reinforced concrete external walls, roof slabs and floor slabs of
adequate thickness and designed to resist the weapon effects and
loading.
This section will describe the design of Shelters in 2 categories:
a) Public Shelters
b) Household Shelters
The Public Shelters are described under paragraph 10.2 and HS under
paragraph 10.3.
5.3.2 Public Shelters
5.3.2.1 Classification of Public Shelters
Civil defence shelters are classified by its main shelter area into the
following:
(1)
Shelter Main Shelter Maximum
Type Area, A (m2) Shelter
Population
S1 50 < A 200 500
S2 200 < A 300 750
S3 300 < A 400 1000
S4 400 < A 500 1250
S5 500 < A 600 1500
Note: (1) Based on 0.4 m2/ person
5.3.2.2 Recommended References
a) The following references are very useful in the design of civil

defence shelters:
i) Technical Guidelines for CB Protected S1 Civil Defence

Shelters, July 1993.
ii) Technical Requirements For S1 S5 Public Shelters
iii) Shock Design Guidelines For Architectural Finishes, Fixtures
and Equipment In Civil Defence Shelters, March 1996.
iv) CD Shelter Technical Specifications
v) Programs For Elasto-Plastic Single Degree Of Freedom

System.
vi) Handbook For Commissioning Requirements of S1 S5 Public
Shelters.
b) The following supplementary references are also useful in providing

the basic knowledge and understanding of the protective structures:
i) Protection From Non-Nuclear Weapon, Robert E Crawford, Air

Force Weapons Laboratory, 1971.
ii) Structures To Resist The Effects Of Accidental Explosion, Vol. I

to VI, US Army Armament Research Development And
Engineering Center, 1984 1987.
iii) Fundamentals Of Protective Design For Conventional Weapons,

Waterway Experiment Station, Corps of Engineers, Jul 1984.
iv) Standard CD Shelters Dynamic Response Of Typical Structural

Elements To Weapon Effects, DEMCO, Jun 1988.
v) Standard CD Shelters Preliminary Design Of Standard

Protective Steelwork Items, DEMCO, Jun 1988.
vi) Larger CD Shelters Engineering Rationale, DEMCO, Feb 1989.
vii) Introduction To Structural Dynamics, Biggs, 1964.

viii) Fundamentals Of Protective Design For Conventional Weapons

TM 5-855-1 Headquarters, Department Of Army, 3 Nov 1986.
ix) Microcomputer Programs CONWEB and FUNPRO Application

of TM 5-855-1, Fundamentals Of Protective Design For
Conventional Weapons Oct 24, 1989.
c) The abovementioned references are kept in the library of Civil &

Structural Engineers Division Library.
5.3.2.3 Structural Analysis
a) Besides static loads like dead loads, imposed loads etc, the
structures are required to resist the weapon effects which consist of
mainly high intensity blast pressure of short duration. Therefore,
the structural analysis will involve both dynamic analysis as well as
static analysis.
b) The minimum clear height beneath obstruction such as beams,

ventilation ducts, dropped panels etc., measured from the finished
floor level (FFL) shall be 2.2 m. The clear structural height of the
shelter shall not exceed 2.8 m. If greater height is required,
approval shall be sought from CDSB.
c) Static Analysis
Static analysis may follow the requirement of CP 65 as well as the

Technical Requirements For S1 S5 Public Shelter.
d) Dynamic Analysis
Dynamic analysis may follow the requirement of the Technical

Requirements For S1 S5 Public Shelters. In general, a single
degree of freedom dynamic model is adequate to describe the
dynamic response of the structural element. It can be further
modified by including elasto-plastic response as well as damping
effects. Computer programs for the dynamic analysis of the
structure have been written and are available in the
microcomputers of the C & Ss office. Designers are advised to
refer to Programs For Elasto-Plastic Single Degree Of Freedom
System for more details.
e) Collapse Load
Collapse load is an additional load on the civil defence shelters, it

represents the load due to debris or collapse superstructure which
act on the structure of the shelter. It shall be taken into account in
the structural analysis. The values of the collapse load, load factor
and loading pattern are as specified in the chapter 5 of the
Technical Requirements For S1 S5 Public Shelters.
5.3.2.4 Some Recommendation for Dynamic Analysis
a) Damping
The recommended damping for reinforce concrete structural

element is about 7 % of the critical damping.
b) Ductility Ratio
The ductility ratio shall not exceed 10 for reinforced concrete

structure normally.
c) Plastic Deflection to Span Ratio
The ratio of plastic deflection and span shall not exceed 1/300 for
slight damage level, or 1/125 for moderate damage level.
d) Reinforcement Ratio
The required reinforcement ratio may be obtained by a trial and

error method starting from the minimum reinforcement ratio and
increases progressively until the ductility ratio and plastic deflection
to span are within acceptable level.
e) Size Of Structural Member
The required size of the structural member may be estimated from

the span to depth ratio of 20, and in no case shall it be less than the
minimum dimension required. The size may be increased

progressively in successive trial until reinforcement ratio, ductility
ratio and plastic deflection to span ratio are within acceptable level.
f) Shear
Shear consideration normally will control the final design. The

shear stresses at critical section at the support shall be checked
and ensured that they are within the maximum allowable shear
stress as specified in CP 65.
5.3.2.5 Structural Design
a) The design shall follow the requirements as specified in CP 65 and

b) Minimum Dimension of Structural Members
The dimension of structural members shall not be less than the

minimum dimension specified in the respective technical guidelines.
c) Maximum Span
The maximum span of roof slabs shall not exceed the values
specified in the respective guidelines. These values are
summarized as below:
Shelter Type Maximum Span (m)

S1 8.0
S2 9.0
S3 10.0
S4 12.0
S5 16.0
d) Reinforcement Ratio
The minimum reinforcement ratio of structural and non-structural

members shall not be less than the minimum values stipulated in
the respective guidelines. The maximum reinforcement ratio shall
be as specified in CP 65.
e) Additional Load Factors For Beams and Columns
In static design, an additional load factor of 1.5 shall be multiplied to

the loads on the beams and columns as required by Section 5.3.2
of the Technical Requirements For S1 S5 Public Shelters.
However, beams and columns are not preferred, instead it would
be more suitable to have solid slabs and walls structural system.
5.3.2.6 Design Of Supports For Architectural Finishes, Services And

Equipment
a) Shock design criteria and methodolgy is specified in the Shock

Design Guidelines For Architectural Finishes, Services And
Equipment in Civil Defence Shelters (Mar 1996), as well as in
b) Structural Detailing (CD Shelters)
Generally, the reinforced concrete structural elements shall be

detailed in accordance with the requirements of CP 65, with the
addition of the following specific requirements specified in the
Technical Guidelines For Standard Or Larger CD Shelters.
c) Technical Guidelines for Structural Detailing
i) Laps, Anchorage and Joints of Reinforcing Bars
Tension laps shall be provided for all laps

Adjacent laps shall be staggered by at least the lap length of
the bars
Full anchorage lengths shall be provided at end supports
Welding of reinforcement shall be avoided
Use of bundled bars shall be avoided as far as possible. If
this is unavoidable, then maximum of 3 bars in a bundle may
be permitted
ii) Spacing, Cover and Bars Sizes
Maximum spacing between bars on the inner faces of

members shall be 100 mm
Maximum spacing between bars for all members shall be
200 mm
Maximum nominal cover shall be 40 mm
Minimum bar diameter shall be 10 mm
iii) Slabs and Walls
Minimum compression steel at given section shall be greater

than 50 % of the main tension reinforcement at that section
(Asc > 50 % Ast)
Mid-span tension reinforcement shall not be curtailed
Minimum links required shall be T10 @ 400 c/c both ways
For slabs and walls of thickness greater than 500 mm, an
additional layer of reinforcement of T10 bars at 200 mm both
ways, shall be provided at the mid-depth of the section.
100 % of the main tension reinforcement at mid-span shall
be extended to the supports and be properly anchored.
Minimum secondary reinforcement shall be 50 % of the
tension or compression reinforcement.
iv) Beams
Minimum compression steel at given section shall be greater

than 50 % of the main tension reinforcement at that section
(Asc > 50 % Ast)
Midspan tension reinforcement shall not be curtailed
Maximum shear link spacing shall be 200mm
Additional web reinforcement shall be T10 @ 200mm with
horizontal links at 400 c/c both ways.
Beam or part of the beam located along the external shelter
hull, the maximum spacing of the links and longitudinal tie
bars on the internal face of the beam shall be 100 mm.
v) Columns
Minimum reinforcement along each face of column shall be

0.8 % of the columns cross-section area.
Minimum diameter of column reinforcement shall be 13 mm
and maximum clear spacing between the individual bars
shall be 200 mm.
Maximum spacing of column stirrups shall be 200 mm for
lower three-quarters of the column height, and 100 mm for
the top quarter.
vi) Construction Joints
Expansion or contraction joints shall be minimized. The type

and location of construction joints shall be specified in the
design.
Full height of wall shall be cast in one lift.
vii) Holes/ Openings
All structural elements shall be adequately and properly

reinforced around any hole/opening incorporated in the
element for the passage of conduit, pipe, duct, or other
services.
5.3.3 Household Shelters (HS)
5.3.3.1 Recommended Reference
Technical Requirements For Household and Storey Shelters, 2001, is

useful in the design of HS.
5.3.3.2 HS Area and Tower
The maximum HS size shall be 4.8 m2 unless otherwise approval by

the authority. The minimum HS size shall follow Table 1 of the
Technical Requirements For Household and Storey Shelters. The HS
on each floor shall be located one on top of the other, to form a vertical
HS tower with continuous walls.
5.3.3.3 Minimum HS Wall Thickness
a) The minimum HS wall thickness shall be:

HS Clear Setback HS Wall
Height, Ht Disturbance of HS Thickness (mm)
(mm) Wall
2400 Ht 6000 250
2700 > 6000 200
2700 Ht 6000 275
2900 > 6000 225
2900 Ht 6000 300
3900 > 6000 250
b) The minimum thickness of the basement HS Wall which is in direct

contact with earth throughout its entire height shall be:
HS Clear Height, HS Wall

Ht (mm) Thickness (mm)
2400 Ht 2700 250
2700 Ht 2900 275
2900 Ht 3900 300
c) The wall thickness of any HS or NS within the HS tower shall not be

less than that of the HS or NS (non-shelter) above.
d) The minimum thickness of an internal HS wall, which is common to

two adjacent HS in non-landed dwelling units shall be 200 mm.
e) For two adjacent HS in landed dwelling units, the minimum

thickness of each of the two abutting HS walls shall be 200 mm.
5.3.3.4 Structural Design
a) Design Approach
The structural design of the HS tower shall take into account both
the vertical and lateral loads, where applicable. The HS tower shall
be designed for maximum degrees of redundancy in the structural
system against weapons effects.
b) Structural System
A HS or NS on each storey of a building shall be designed one on

top of the other, to form a continuous structural HS tower.
i) HS Tower
For a HS tower of 6 storeys or more, every wall on the

critical section of HS tower shall be removed, one at a time,
to determine the stress of the remaining walls of the HS
tower. The allowable stress of the concrete and
reinforcement is derived from the characteristic strength
divided by a partial safety factor of 1.3 and 1.0 respectively.
For purpose of calculating the allowable stress, the design
load supported by the HS tower shall be 1.2 times the
characteristic dead load (including superimposed dead load),

live load and lateral loads, where applicable.
For a HS tower of 6 storeys or more and found on piled

foundation, each HS tower shall be supported by a minimum
of 2 piles.
ii) Exit Staircase
Where there is only one exit staircase or exit scissors-staircase

serving non-landed dwelling units, the minimum waist and
thickness of the landing slab of the staircase shall be 150 mm.
The staircase shall be constructed of reinforced concrete.
Where a pre-cast concrete exit staircase is used, the support
connections shall be designed for a load equal to 1.25 times its
characteristic dead weight, which are acting in 2 lateral
direction.
c) Design Of Structural Members
Generally, the design of structural members shall be done in

accordance with CP 65 taking into consideration the requirements
of the regulations.
i) Solid Slabs
The design of solid slabs shall take into consideration the

following:
Two-way design of solid slabs is preferred over one way

slabs.
Solid slabs shall be designed as fixed or partially restrained
at the supports.
ii) Walls
Walls shall be designed in accordance with the provisions of CP

65. However, all connections transmitting load to a wall shall be
designed as fixed or partially restrained.
iii) Bases
Bases shall be designed in accordance with the provision CP 65

subject to the following:
Footing is the preferred form of foundation for HS towers.

Where piles are used, each pile or group of piles at the
periphery of the HS tower shall have its own pilecap.
A base or a pile cap is to be designed for the maximum load
transferred to it.
The service load on a base for the purposes of establishing
soil bearing capacity or pile capacity is obtained by
considering the effects of all relevant peacetime loads.
Peacetime loads are considered in accordance with relevant
codes.
iv) Ceiling In Front Of HS Door
The ceiling shall be at least 150 mm thick.
d) Minimum Dimensions of Members
i) HS Tower
The minimum dimensions of members forming part of the HS

tower shall be as follows:
Intermediate slabs 150 mm

Ceiling of top most HS 300 mm
Floor of bottom HS 200 mm (if located at ground level) or
300 mm (if located above ground level)
Ceiling in front of HS door 150 mm
Walls beneath a HS or non-HS unit - thickness should be at
least that of the HS or non-HS unit under consideration
e) Minimum Reinforcement Amounts
The minimum reinforcement amounts, using steel with yield

strength of 460 N/mm2 in the various members, shall be as follows:
i) HS Wall
HS Clear Height, Wall Wall Reinforcement Wall reinforcement

Ht (mm) Thickness amount at inner amount at middle
(mm) face, top and 1/3 effective span of
bottom 1/3 effective the outer span of
span of the outer the outer face of the
face of wall (both wall (both ways)
ways)
2500 Ht 2650 200 or 250 T10 - 100 T10 - 200
2650 Ht 3000 225 or 275 T13 - 100 T13 - 200
3000 Ht 3500 250 or 300 T13 - 100 T13 - 200
3500 Ht 4000 250 or 300 T13 - 100 T13 - 200
ii) Wall Common To Two HS
Two reinforcement meshes (one mesh on each side of the

wall) of 10 mm bars at 200 mm distance.
iii) Intermediate Slabs
Two reinforcement meshes (top and bottom) of 10 mm bars

at 200 mm distance.
iv) Ceiling Of Top Most HS
Top reinforcement mesh of 10 mm bars at 100 mm distance.

Bottom reinforcement mesh of 10 mm bars at 200 mm
distance.
v) Floor Of Bottom Most HS
Top reinforcement mesh of 10 mm bars at 100 mm distance.

Bottom reinforcement mesh of 10 mm bars at 200 mm
distance.
vi) Walls Beneath The HS Perimeter Walls
Same requirements as detailed in paragraphs i) and ii)

above.
vii) Ceiling In Front Of The HS Door
Same requirements as detailed in paragraph iii) above.
For steel with yield strength different than 460 N/mm2 and at the
above specified distances the minimum reinforcement area shall
be obtained by multiplying the reinforcement area of the above
100 mm bars by a factor of fy/460.
In all structural members, 50% of the reinforcement amount in

the tension zone should be provided in the compression zone in
the same cross-section.
5.3.4 Stages Involved in the Design and Construction of a Public Shelter
5.3.4.1 Consultation Stage
Before proceeding with the detailed design of a public shelter, QPs/PEs are
advised to request for consultation with CDSD on the preliminary design of
the public shelter with respect to the architectural, piling, structural, shock,
mechanical and electrical requirements.
To schedule a date for the consultation with CDSD, QPs/PEs shall submit
form SF_PS/PF1 Request for Consultation on Public Shelter
Requirements to CDSD. To ensure an effective consultation, QPs/PEs are
advised to prepare and bring along the information & plans as stated below:
a) Plan showing the location of the site and its surrounding developments;
b) Site plan showing the location of the public shelter in relation to the
overall development project. The location of the public shelter shall be
highlighted in red;
c) Public shelter layout plan; and
d) Sections and elevations of the public shelter
5.3.4.2 Application for Acceptance of Shelter Plan Stage
Every new application, which includes first time application, re-submission

of shelter plans after receipt of NONA, issued by BCA and amendments to
acceptance plans, shall be accompanied by Form SF_PS/PF2 Application
for Acceptance of Public Shelter Plans and one set of the relevant plans (if
applicable).
If the submitted plans (if applicable) are found to be in order, CDSD will
issue a Notice of Acceptance. The QPs/PEs shall bring along the original
copy of Notice of Acceptance to the BCA Service Centre to collect the set of
accepted plans after 14 days from the date of receipt of the Notice of
Acceptance.
If there are design non-conformances, CDSD will issue written directions to

the QPs/PEs. The QPs/PEs shall bring the original copy of written directions
to the BCA Service Centre to collect the set of returned plans. The QPs/PEs
shall amend their plans and submit them to CDSD within 3 weeks from the
date of issuance of written directions. Failing which, a Notice of Non-
Acceptance for Public Shelter Plans (NONA) would be issued to QPs/PEs.
QPs/PEs are than required to make a new application after issuance of
NONA.
Response to written direction, prior to its expiry date indicated therein, shall
be accompanied by Form SF_PS/PF3 Re-Submission for Acceptance of
Public Shelter Plans.
a) Project Reference Number and Plan Type
All applications of public shelters plans shall have a project reference

number issued by the coordinating QP, who would normally be the QP
for architectural works. The QPs/PEs of the various disciplines shall use
the same project reference with the appropriate plan type suffix and
number to denote the different types of submissions, for example:
A1234-001-1999-CS01 to denote a public shelter structural application
and A1234-001-1999-CD01 to denote a public shelter architectural
application. The following characters are used to denote the different

types of public shelter plans applications:
i) CD Architectural
ii) CS Structural and Piling
iii) CK Shock
iv) CM Mechanical
v) CE Electrical
vi) CT Method statement and test report
For new application, includes first time application, re-submission of

shelter plans after receipt of NONA issued by BCA and amendments to
accepted plans, QPs/PEs shall use respective plan type suffix and
unique numbers in their applications. For example, for shelter structural
plans, if CS-01 has been used previously, then this number shall not be
used again for subsequent new shelter structural plan applications for
the same project.
For response to written directions, prior to its expiry date indicated

therein, QPs/PEs shall indicate the respective same plan type numbers
of the applications.
b) Standard Stamp
All plans (except shock design plans) shall be prepared in A1 size

drawings and shall bear the QPs/PEs professional stamp & signature in
the title block (see Annex P1) on the right hand column of every plan.
The first and last sheet of the plans shall also bear the standard
certification by the QPs/PEs (see Annex P1).
5.3.4.3 Application for Acceptance of Architectural Plans
All architectural plans shall be endorsed by the QP for architectural works

before they are submitted to CDSD for acceptance.
QP shall include the following plans when applying to BCA for acceptance
of public shelter architectural plans:
a) Plan showing the location of the site in relation to the surrounding

locality;
b) Site plan showing the location of the public shelter in relation to the
overall development project. The bounds of protection (blast, gas and
blast & gas walls and slabs) of the public shelter shall be outlined
separately in different distinct colours;
c) Layout of the shelter showing the following details:

i) M&E plant room, generator room and air locks, etc.
ii) Entrances to and exits and from the public shelter
iii) Locations and overall dimensions of protective blast doors, hatches,
louvres and gas-tight doors;
iv) Locations and provisions of blast valves, overpressure blast valves,
sealing devices and other cast-in items;
v) Sizes and locations of the intake and exhaust air shafts, expansion
chambers of the M&E plant room and generator room;
vi) Thickness of the external and internal structural members of the

public shelter such as external protective walls, roof slabs of the
public shelter, etc.; and
vii) General information of public shelter (Annex P2) (to be included on
the first sheet of plan)
d) Appropriate elevations and sections of the public shelter.
5.3.4.4 Application for Acceptance of Piling Plans
For public shelters supported on piles, the QP for structural works shall
submit the public shelter piling plans to CDSD for acceptance. Piling plans
shall be endorsed by a QP for structural works before they are submitted to
CDSD for acceptance.
For formal application, the QP shall submit the piling layout plan together
with the pilecaps details.
Except for the areas within the public shelter, piling works for other parts of
the development may proceed after the necessary approval and Permit to
Carry Out Structural Works have been obtained from the Building
Engineering Division (BE). Piling works for the public shelter shall not
commence unless Notice of Acceptance for Public Shelter Piling Plans has
been obtained from CDSD.
For Public shelters supported on footing, the QP for structural works shall
submit his/her plans for the footing, together with the structural plans for the
public shelter as a single application to CDSD for acceptance.
5.3.4.5 Application for Acceptance of Structural Plans
For formal application, the following details shall be submitted
a) Structural layout plan (including footing plan if applicable);

b) Details of structural members (and footing if applicable); and
c) Details showing the openings for services penetrations through walls
and floor slabs.
The QP for structural works shall take note that structural works on the
public shelter shall not commence unless Notice of Acceptance for Public
Shelter Structural Plans has been obtained from CDSD.
5.3.4.6 Application for Acceptance of Shock Design Plans
Shock design plans shall be endorsed by a PE(Civil) or PE(Mechanical). All

plans shall be prepared in A3 size drawings and bear the endorsements.
A set of shock design plans shall be prepared for the shock mounting of
every equipment, services and fixtures. Each set of shock design plans shall
consist of the following information and details:
a) Design Summary for Shock Calculations (Annex P5) (To be included on

the front page of each set of shock calculations)
b) Shock mounting brackets (including sizes of components and welds),
expansion anchor bolts, shock isolators, etc., on the 3 major axes (X, Y
and Z directions) for the supports of M&E equipment, ductwork,
pipework, and architectural fixtures, etc.;
c) Layout plan of the public shelter showing location of the shock design
items;
d) Details of mounting brackets (including sizes of components and welds),
expansion anchor bolts and shock isolators, etc. and
e) Catalogues and technical data sheets showing details of mounting
brackets, expansion anchor bolts, shock isolators, etc.
5.3.4.7 Construction Stage
The QP for structural works is required to inform CDSD when construction

works for the public shelter is about to commence. He shall submit a copy of
the site plan of the public shelter.
a) Construction Supervision
The QPs/PEs shall ensure that this public shelter is constructed in

accordance with the following:
Accepted public shelter plans;

Other requirements stipulated in the Technical Requirements for S1-
S5 Public shelters, CD Shelter Technical Specifications; and
Detailed manufacturers specifications for installation of services and
equipment such as blast valves, overpressure blast valves,
overpressure valves, anchor bolts, sealing devices, etc.
The QPs/PEs and their site supervisors, Resident Engineers or Clerk-of-

Works) shall note the following salient requirements:
No hacking or drilling of structural members is allowed after the

members have been cast. The QPs/PEs is required to liaise closely
with other consultants and builders for structural openings, ducts and
pipes penetrations, etc., before carrying out any concreting of public
shelter walls and slabs. He shall ensure that all cast-in-place items
such as sleeves for blast valves, frames for sealing devices, cast-in
bolts, etc., are placed and secured in correct positions before
concreting.
The QP shall take note that all protective steelworks shall be

completely and fully assembled before installation on site. The
assembled protective steelworks shall be installed and secured in
position with temporary guides and bracing before concreting.
b) Regulatory Inspections
Regulatory inspections are carried out by CDSD during the construction

stage to inspect critical/main activities of the public shelter, which are
deemed necessary.
The QP shall inform CDSD prior to concreting of all critical/main

structural members of public shelter or installation of protective
steelworks or CD dedicated equipment so that regulatory inspections
could be scheduled if necessary.
During the regulatory inspection, CDSD will inform the QP of any non-
conformances. CDSD will follow up with a letter to the QP listing the non-
conformance items and any observations made arising from the
regulatory inspection. The QP shall take corrective actions to rectify all

non-conformances and observations.
5.3.4.8 Commission Stage
After completion of the public shelter, QP/PE shall conduct inspections,

testing and commissioning to ensure that the public shelter and all its
functional systems meet the requirements specified in the Technical
Requirements for S1 S5 Public Shelters.
The QP/PE shall be responsible for the co-ordination and supervision of the
inspections, testing and commissioning. He shall ensure that all necessary
labour, equipment, instruments and tools are made available for the tests.
Commissioning of a public shelter involves the following items:
Inspection of structural and architectural works viz. air-tightness

inspection, anchor bolts pull-out test and visual inspection of completed
public shelter;
Commissioning of mechanical and electrical systems viz. individual

functional system tests for M&E systems and combined power, lighting
and communications systems test; and
Commissioning tests for public shelters viz. internal overpressure test,

overpressure regime and airflow test and integrated systems test.
a) Inspection of Structural Works
Inspection of structural works involves checking the external structural

envelop of the public shelter to ensure that the public shelter and its
essential components such as blast doors, CD valves and blast louvres,
etc., are properly constructed and installed. This is known as the air-
tightness inspection and is carried out after the completion of the
structural works for the public shelter and the installation of the
protective steelworks and CD valves. The purpose of the inspection is to
ensure that public shelter is ready to conduct the internal overpressure
test.
b) Air-Tightness Inspection
The QP is advised to inform CDSD prior to the conduct of the air-

tightness inspection.
The following items are to be checked during the air-tightness

inspection:
i) Protective doors and hatches;

Visual inspection
Light penetration test
Chalk trace examination
ii) CD valves;
iii) Floor traps
iv) Slumps with gully trap; and

v) Scupper drains
A sample record for air-tightness inspection is given in Annex C1 as

reference. All detected faults, defects or imperfections must be rectified
and re-inspected to ensure works has been done satisfactorily.
Upon the completion of air-tightness inspection, the QP may make

necessary arrangement to conduct the internal overpressure test.
Procedure for the internal overpressure test is given in Handbook for
Commissioning Requirements of S1 S5 Public Shelters.
c) Inspection of Architectural Works
Inspection of architectural works shall be carried out when all the

architectural fixtures, M&E cables, ducting and equipment have been
installed. The purpose is to ensure compliance with the Technical
Requirements for S1-S5 Public Shelters.
Inspection of architectural works involves:
Visual inspection of the completed public shelter; and

Anchor bolts pull-out tests
d) Visual Inspection of Completed Public Shelter
The QP is advised to inform CDSD prior to the conduct of visual

inspection of the completed public shelter whereby the following items
are to be checked:
i) Building works, including penetration details;

ii) Protective doors and hatches;
iii) Blast louvers, CD valves and sealing devices;
iv) Floor traps, sumps and scupper drains; and
v) Water tank.
A sample record for visual inspection of completed public shelter is given

in Annex C2 as reference.
All detected faults, defects or imperfections must be rectified and re-

inspected to ensure rectification works has been done satisfactorily.
e) Anchor Bolts Pull-Out Test
All anchor bolts used in the public shelter, including those used for
installing architectural items such as wash basins, water cisterns,
handrails, cat-ladders, toilet partitions, etc., and those used for the
support systems of M&E services shall be shock-mounted. The PE shall
ensure that only approved types and sizes of bolts are used and
installed. Intervals of supporting brackets and anchor bolts are in
accordance with the accepted shock design plans and calculations. He
shall also ensure that he minimum anchor torque values for the bolts are
attained.
In addition to the above checks, the PE shall also arrange for pull-out
tests to be conducted on samples of installed anchor bolts. The anchor
bolts pull-out test shall be conducted in accordance with the prescribed
method stated below:
Anchor bolts shall be tested in batches from the same system; e.g, water
supply system. The minimum batch size shall be 26 and the maximum
shall be 90. The sample size of a batch of anchor bolts and the
acceptance/rejection criteria on the Double Sampling Plan for General
Inspection Level II (Normal) as shown:
Batch Size Sample Size AQL = 6.5%

Ac Re
26 to 50 1st sample 5 0 2
2nd sample 10* 1* 2*
51 to 90 1st sample 8 0 3
2nd sample 16* 3* 4*
Legend:
AQL Acceptable Quality Level
Ac Acceptance number
Re Rejection number
* - Cumulative number
The criteria for acceptance/rejection of a batch of anchor bolts based on

the Acceptance Quality Level of 6.5% are as follows:
i) For 1st sample of test bolts:
If the number of defects found is less than or equal to the

acceptance number (Ac), the batch is accepted
If the number of defects found is equal to or more than the
rejection number (Re), the batch is rejected and 100% inspection
shall be conducted on the rejected batch and all defects shall be
rectified.
If the number of defects found is more than Ac but less than Re, a
second sample of bolts shall be selected from the same batch for
the test; and
ii) For 2nd sample of test bolts:
If the cumulative number of defects found in the two samples is

less than or equal to the Ac, the batch is accepted.
If the cumulative number of defects found in the two samples is
equal to or more than Re, the batch is rejected and 100%
inspection shall be conducted on the rejected batch and all
defects shall be rectified.
A sample record for anchor bolts pull-out test is given in Annex C3 as

reference.
The PE is advised to inform CDSD prior to the conduct of anchor

bolts pull-out test. Before any anchor bolts pull-out test, the PE shall
prepare layout plans of the test bolts showing the following
information:
Numbers and locations of anchor bolts;

Test batches (e.g. 1 to 90 Batch 1, 91 to 120 Batch 2);
Types of anchor bolts; and
Test loads for the anchor bolts.
The PE shall ensure that the results of the anchor bolt pull-out tests
are recorded, maintained and kept on site together with the layout
plans.
All detected faults and defects must be rectified and re-inspected to

ensure that rectification works has been done satisfactorily.
5.3.5 Guideline for Plan Submission, Construction and Commissioning of

Household or Storey Shelters
This Guidelines serves as a reference to the QPs who are responsible

for the planning, design, construction and commissioning of household
or storey shelters.
During the design phase of household or storey shelters, Notice of

Acceptance (NOA) is issued by Civil Defence Shelter Engineering
Department (CDSD) of Special Functions Division (SF) in Building and
Construction Authority (BCA) separately for compliance of shelter
architectural and structural requirements in accordance with the
Technical Requirements for Household Shelters or Storey Shelters.
At the final stage of household or storey shelters construction, Notice

of Acceptance (NOA) is issued when household or storey shelter
meets the commissioning requirements in accordance with the
Technical Requirements for Household Shelters or Storey Shelters.
5.3.5.1 General Advice to Qualified Persons
Before undertaking the planning, design, construction and

commissioning of household or storey shelters in residential houses or
flats, QPs should pay special attention to the following:
a) Interdependency between Qualified Persons
There is a high level of inter-dependency between the design

architect and professional engineer in ensuring that shelter
architectural and shelter structural requirements are complied with.
The requirements of architectural design of a household or storey
shelter could affect structural design requirements. Hence, design
architect shall be the overall co-ordinator to co-ordinate closely with
the professional engineer in all stages of household or storey
shelter design. This is to avoid abortive structural design works by
PE if shelter architectural requirements are not compiled with.
b) Routing and Penetration of Services
The routing and penetration of mechanical and electrical services

through shelter walls are important details as they may affect the
air-tightness requirements of a household or storey shelter. Hence,
details showing the routing and locations of services penetration

through walls, floor slab or ceiling slab of a household or a storey
shelter are to be shown in the shelter architectural plans.
5.3.5.2 Technical Requirements
In addition to this Guidelines, the planning, design, construction and

commissioning of household or storey shelters shall be carried out in
accordance with The Technical Requirements for Household Shelters
or Storey Shelters 2001.
5.3.5.3 Consultation on Shelter Design
It is to QPs advantage that a consultation session with staff of CDSD

be arranged during the early design stage of a household or storey
shelter.
This should be done preferably before planning application or

lodgment is submitted to the competent authority URA. QP could
request a suitable date for consultation by filling up standard
Application Form SF_HS/PF1 and sending a facsimile letter or
submitting it to CDSD of BCA.
QPs are requested to bring along their preliminary design plans

showing the following:
a) Shelter size;
b) Location of shelter/s with respect to overall building layout;
c) Shelter setback distances from external building lines;

d) Thickness of shelter walls and slabs; and
e) Sectional view and elevation of shelter with respect to building
elevation.
5.3.5.4 Application for Acceptance of Shelter Plans
a) Sequence of Application for Acceptance of Shelter Plans
QP is required to obtain Notice of Acceptance (NOA) for the

following shelter plans from CDSD of BCA:
Shelter Architectural Plans; and

Shelter Structural Plans
Notice of Acceptance (NOA) for shelter structural plans will only be

issued after shelter architectural plans have been accepted by
CDSD of BCA. This is to avoid amendments to shelter structural
plans should there be any changes made to the shelter
architectural plans in order to comply with the written directions
issued by CDSD. Alternatively, QPs may submit their shelter plans,
under a single submission for acceptance if they are confident that
their architectural and structural design of household or storey
shelter could comply with all the shelter requirements as stipulated
in the Technical Requirements for Household Shelters or Storey
Shelters.
Upon acceptance of shelter architectural and structural plans,

separate Notice of Acceptance (NOA) will be issued by BCA for
compliance of shelter architectural and structural requirements.
QPs are to take note that construction work pertaining to household
or storey shelter can only be commenced after Notice of
Acceptance (NOA) for shelter structural plans has been obtained.
b) Project Reference Number
In the application for acceptance of shelter architectural plans, the

architect shall indicate the project reference number on the shelter
architectural plans. The PEs making subsequent shelter structural
plans submission should indicate the same project reference
number issued by the architect on their plans. The following
abbreviation should be used for the respective plan type: CD for
shelter architectural plans and CS for shelter structural Plans. For
example: A1234-001-2001-CD01 & A1234-001-2001-CS01.
For subsequent amendment submissions made to the accepted

plans or re submission of shelter plans after receipt of Notice of
Non-Acceptance (NONA) issued by BCA, QP or PE shall use
respective plan type suffix and unique numbers in their application.
For example, if shelter architectural plans CD 01 has been used
and QP wishes to submit amendment design of the accepted CD
01 plans or to re-submit shelter architectural after NONA has been
issued, then CD 02 shall be used for the subsequent submissions.
For response to written direction within the time frame stipulated in
the written direction, QP or PE shall indicate the respective same
plan type number for re-submission in the application form

SF_HS/PF4.
c) Standard Acceptance Stamp
Site layout plan, key plan and location plan of household shelter or
storey shelter shall be submitted. All types of shelter plans must
bear the standard acceptance stamp on the right-hand column on
every plan (refer to below specimen).
____ Sheet of____

BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION AUTHORITY
ACCEPTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS FOR
HOUSEHOLD / STOREY / PUBLIC SHELTERS
Project Reference No:____________________
......................................................
for Commissioner of Building Control Date
Specimen of Standard Acceptance Stamp

d) Shelters Data
Design architect is required to provide shelter data of the

development project in the standard format as shown below. These
data shall be clearly shown on the first page of shelter architectural
plans.
Data of Household / Storey Shelter Development
Dwelling GFA No of HS or Size of HS Aboveground (AG)or

Unit Type (m2) SS or SS(m 2 ) Basement (B) HS
Total No of HS or SS
For landed properties, to indicate: Freehold or Strata-Title
Standard Format of Shelter Data
e) Types of Shelter Plan Submission
Every new shelter plan application, re-submission after receipt of a

Notice of Non-Acceptance or amendment design to accepted
shelter plans shall be accompanied by Application Form
SF_HS/PF2 (for shelter architectural plan submission) and
SF_HS/PF3 (for shelter structural plan submission). Re-submission
in response to WD within the stipulated time frame shall be

accompanied by Application Form SF_HS/PF4.
The detailed requirements for the application of the various types of

shelter plans are as follows:
i) Shelter Architectural Plans
When applying for acceptance of shelter architectural plans, QP

shall submit 2 sets of the following architectural plans together
with the Application Form SF_HS/PF2 :
Site and location plans (1:1000);

Architectural layout plans (1:100); and
Shelter detailed plans, sections and elevations (showing the
routing and penetration of services as well as the location of
ventilation and HS/SS door openings in 1:50).
In the application form for acceptance of shelter architectural

plans, QP shall certify and endorse that all the shelter
architectural requirements as stipulated in the Technical
Requirements for Household Shelters or Storey Shelters are
fully complied with.
QP shall submit the application form together with shelter

architectural plans to BCA. Upon acceptance of shelter
architectural plans by CDSD of BCA, a Notice of Acceptance
(NOA) of shelter architectural plans will be issued to the QP.
QP shall produce the original copy of the Notice of Acceptance

(NOA) to collect one set of the accepted shelter architectural
plans from the BCA Service Centre. The other set of the
accepted shelter architectural plans shall be retained by CDSD
of BCA.
ii) Shelter Structural Plans
When applying for acceptance of shelter structural plans, QP is

only required to submit 1 set of shelter structural plans (includes
footing plans*), where applicable, (1:25) together with the
Application Form SF_HS/PF3 .
* only applicable for footing integrated with HS base slab.
In the application form for acceptance of shelter structural plans,

QP shall confirm and certify that shelter structural requirements
stipulated in the Technical Requirements for Household
Shelters or Storey Shelters are fully complied with.
QP shall submit the application form together with shelter

structural plans to BCA. Upon acceptance of shelter structural
plans by CDSD of BCA, a Notice of Acceptance (NOA) of
shelter structural plans will be issued to the QP.
QP shall produce the original copy of the Notice of Acceptance

to collect the accepted shelter structural plans from BCA
Service Centre, after 2 weeks from the date of the Notice of

Acceptance (NOA) of shelter structural plans.
If there are non-compliant items found in the shelter

architectural or shelter structural plans, a written direction will be
issued to the QP. The original set of shelter architectural or
structural plans will be returned to the QP to comply with the
written direction within the time frame stipulated in the written
direction. Failing which, a Notice of Non-Acceptance (NONA)
would be issued to QP who are then required to make a new
application accompanied by Application Form SF_HS/PF2 or
SF_HS/PF3.
If there are major or many non-compliant items discovered in

the shelter plans, Notice of Non-Acceptance (NONA) would be
issued directly to the QP. For such cases and to assist QP in
obtaining early acceptance of shelter plans, QP is encouraged
to arrange a consultation with the plan processing officer before
re-submitting amended shelter plans. QP shall re-submit the
amended shelter plans to BCA.
iii) Waiver Application
QP who wishes to apply for waiver of the Technical

Requirements for Household Shelters or Storey Shelters has to
submit Application Form directly to the Commissioner of the
Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF). When submitting waiver
request to SCDF, a copy of the Waiver Application Form
together with the relevant building plans shall be extended to

CDSD.
Where a formal waiver application for acceptance of the shelter

architectural plans has already been made to CDSD and QP
would like to apply for waiver, application shall be treated by
BCA as Withdrawn when the outcome or the decision by
SCDF is still pending. Upon receipt of the decision of waiver
request from SCDF, QP shall then re-submit the amended
shelter plans (with application form SF_HS/PF2 or SF_HS/PF3)
and a copy of the waiver decision issued by SCDF, to CDSD for
processing and acceptance.
5.3.5.5 Construction of Household or Storey Shelters
After QPs have obtained all the necessary acceptance of the shelter
plans (including shelter structural plans), they may proceed with the
shelter construction works. QP shall take note that permit to
commence building works has to be obtained from BE Division of BCA.
To facilitate CDSD staff in conducting shelter regulatory inspection
during its construction, QP is advised to submit shelter works schedule
and the site location plan to CDSD.
5.3.5.6 Commissioning of Household or Storey Shelters
Shelters have to be commissioned prior to the issuance of TOP by

BPM Division of BCA, as rectification works would be impractical or
almost impossible after the occupants take possession of the
completed buildings and occupy it. Commissioning procedure for

household or storey shelters are separated into two types, namely:
Projects with more than 3 household or storey shelters.

Projects with up to 3 household or storey shelters.
a) Projects with more than 3 Household or Storey Shelters
QP is advised to complete the first household or storey shelter early

to serve as a reference for the construction of other household or
storey shelters within the same project development. Upon
completion of the first household or storey shelter, QP will submit a
copy of the application for acceptance of commissioning for the first
household or storey shelter using Application Form SF_HS/CF1.
QP has to certify on the application form that the commissioning
requirements for the first household or storey shelters have been
fully complied with. CDSD would then conduct a commissioning
inspection with the QP and the builder. 3 different types of test, i.e.
chalk mark, light penetration and air-tightness test are to be carried
out. When all the commissioning requirements for the first
household or storey shelter are met, CDSD will issue a Notice of
Acceptance (NOA) of commissioning of the first household or
storey shelter. It should be noted that it is the responsibility of the
QP to ensure that the rest of the household or storey shelters in the
same development project are constructed in accordance with the
same standards as laid out in the first household or storey shelter.
When all the household or storey shelters in each development

project are completed, QP shall submit application by using
Application Form SF_HS/CF2 for acceptance of commissioning of
project household or storey shelters. CDSD, upon receiving the
request, would arrange for an inspection to assess acceptability of
the shelters for the entire project. Sample size shall be taken to
conduct the tests. Upon completion of the tests and if the test
results meet the passing criteria in one inspection, CDSD would
issue a Notice of Acceptance (NOA) for commissioning of project
household or storey shelters. This notice of acceptance for project
household or storey shelters has to be submitted when QP applies
for TOP from BPM Division of BCA.
b) Block Basis Commissioning of Household or Storey Shelters
Where there are more than one block of apartments in a residential

development such as HDB flats or condominiums, QP may wish to
apply for commissioning of project household or storey shelters on
a block basis. Each application for commissioning of project
household or storey shelters shall be accompanied with the
Application Form SF_HS/CF2 and identify with the submission type
suffix CN and its unique number. For example, if the plan type
CN 01 has been used in the application for acceptance of
commissioning of the first household or storey shelters, then CN
02 shall be used for the subsequent applications.
c) Projects with up to 3 Household or Storey Shelters
For a project development with three or fewer household or storey

shelters, commissioning of the first household or storey shelter is
not necessary. Hence, QP would only proceed to apply for
acceptance of commissioning for the project household or storey
shelter using Application Form SF_HS/CF2. Upon receiving the
application from QP, CDSD will arrange for an inspection with the
QP and the builder. When CDSD assesses that the completed
household or storey shelters have fully complied with the
commissioning requirements, CDSD will issue a Notice of
Acceptance (NOA) of commissioning of project household or storey
shelters.
This notice of acceptance for project household or storey shelters

has to be submitted when QP applies for TOP from BPM Division of
BCA. In both 12.7.2 and 12.7.3, QP would be issued with a written
direction if there were non-compliant items discovered during
commissioning inspection. QP shall re-apply for the commissioning
test of the first or project household/storey shelters by using either
Application Form SF_HS/CF1 or SF_HS/CF2, with plan type suffix
CN and unique number, to CDSD upon rectification of the shelter
defects. Depending on the circumstances, commissioning re-
inspection may be required before Notice of Acceptance is issued.
5.3.6 Table of Application Forms
Forms Description
SF_HS/PF1 Request for Consultation on Household/Storey
Shelter Requirements
SF_HS/PF2 Application for Acceptance of Household/Storey
Shelter Architectural Plans
SF_HS/PF3 Application for Acceptance of Household/Storey
Shelter Structural Plans
SF_HS/PF4 Re-submission for Acceptance of Household/Storey
Shelter Plans
SF_HS/CF1 Application for Acceptance of Commissioning of the
First Household/Storey Shleter
SF_HS/CF2 Application for Acceptance of Commissioning of
Project Household/Storey Shelters

OG - Sec 5 - Submission of Plans and Calculations

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OG - Sec 5 - Submission of Plans and Calculations

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CIVIL & STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING DIVISION

5. SUBMISSION OF PLANS AND CALCULATIONS

5.1 SUBMISSION OF PLANS AND CALCULATIONS

5.2 EXTERNAL WORKS

5. SUBMISSION OF PLANS AND CALCULATIONS

5.1 SUBMISSION OF STRUCTURAL PLANS AND CALCULATIONS

5.1.1 General Requirement

5. SUBMISSION OF PLANS AND CALCULATIONS

5.1.2 Submission of Structural Plans (Including Piling Plans)

a) The detailed structural plans with endorsement stamps from PE

i) Every plan is to be signed by the qualified person (the PE). The

5. SUBMISSION OF PLANS AND CALCULATIONS

v) The types of foundation to be used, the types of piles and a brief

vi) It is necessary to have one sheet of the plans (front sheet)

vii) One set of architectural Building Plans bearing the original

5.1.3 Submission of Design Calculations

a) All design calculations done by the PE including any computer

5. SUBMISSION OF PLANS AND CALCULATIONS

Structural Plans And Design Calculations stamp as well as the

c) Every page of the design calculations is to be numbered and the

d) The design calculations should also contain the followings:

i) An index sheet giving an appreciation of the overall layout for

ii) A design information sheet giving a summary of design

iii) A structural summary sheet giving information on the overall

iv) A sheet on grouping of structural elements showing a list of

v) A sheet on structural analysis and design of structural

5. SUBMISSION OF PLANS AND CALCULATIONS

e) If applicable, the design calculations should be accompanied by

f) If computer program is used, the PE is required to give information

g) The submission should be accompanied by the AC evaluation

5.1.4 Forms To Be Submitted

5. SUBMISSION OF PLANS AND CALCULATIONS

a) Form BPD_BP03_Appendix 1: Plan Fee Computation For Building/

b) Form BEV A1: Application For Approval Of Site Formation/ Piling/

c) Form BEV A1_RW: Declaration By Qualified Person For Structural

d) Form BEV A2: Accredited Checkers Evaluation Certificate

5.1.5 Staggering Of Submission

a) Generally the submission can be carried out in 2 stages, the first

b) Piling Plans Submission

i) The set of submission forms is same as for the detail structural

5. SUBMISSION OF PLANS AND CALCULATIONS

iii) A calculation report by the PE showing how column loads or pile

iv) A copy of soil investigation report together with the bore-logs.

v) All the piling plans and calculations report are to be endorsed by

5. SUBMISSION OF PLANS AND CALCULATIONS

5.1.6 Application For Permit To Commence Structural Works

The engineer has to submit application to BCA for permit to commence

a) Form BEV B1: Joint Application For Permit To Commence Piling/

b) Appendix 1 to Form BEV B2: Schedule Of Structural Works For

d) Appendix 1 to Form BEV B1: Declaration On The Planning

e) Form BEV B2: Quarterly Structural Report

5. SUBMISSION OF PLANS AND CALCULATIONS

5.1.7 Submission for Completion of Structural/ Piling Works

After structural/ piling works are completed, the PE is required to

a) Form BEV C1: The Professional Engineers Certificate Of

b) Form BEV C2: The Professional Engineers Certificate Of

c) Form BEV C3: Submission Certificate Of As-Built Structural Plans/

5. SUBMISSION OF PLANS AND CALCULATIONS

5.1.8 List Of Forms Enclosed In Annexes

5.1.8.1 Annex A (For design submission stage)

a) Form BPD_BP03_Appendix1: PLAN FEE COMPUTATION FOR

b) Form BEV A1: APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF SITE

c) Form BEV A2: ACCREDITED CHECKERS EVALUATION