Q160 · Are there any specific requirements for the…

Q160 · Category D: Premises and Storage Requirements (Q151-Q200)

Yes, the finishing materials and facilities in medicine premises are subject to specific requirements, primarily to facilitate cleaning, prevent contamination and ensure proper storage conditions. Floors should be seamless, smooth, durable and easy to clean, for example, epoxy floor coating. Avoid tiles with joints, as dirt can accumulate in the gaps. Walls and ceilings should be even and free from cracks, with a surface coating that does not readily peel and is easy to clean. It is recommended that wall, floor and ceiling corners be coved to eliminate hard-to-clean areas. Lighting should be sufficiently bright to ensure that all operations (such as checking labels and inspecting the appearance of medicines) can be carried out with clear visibility, and lighting fixtures should be designed for easy cleaning. In addition, the design and installation of all pipes, light fittings, vents and other facilities should avoid surfaces and recesses that are difficult to clean.

📘 Regulatory basis

Good Distribution Practice (GDP) expressly states that the “internal surfaces (walls, floors and ceilings) of storage areas should be smooth and free from cracks and open joints, should not shed particles, and should permit easy and effective cleaning”.

📗 Drew Tang's recommendations

For renovation budgets, we recommend that clients do not cut costs on floor finishes. Although a high-quality epoxy resin floor has a higher initial cost, its durability, ease of cleaning and dust-resistance far exceed those of ordinary tiles or a concrete floor, and it can make an excellent first impression on inspectors. In addition, all wiring and pipes should, as far as possible, be concealed or enclosed in trunking to prevent dust from accumulating on exposed runs. This is also a mark of professionalism.

📕 Risk notice

Using ordinary floor tiles, wooden flooring or wallpaper for refurbishment is completely unacceptable. If an inspection finds cracks in the floor, flaking wall surfaces or numerous areas that are difficult to clean, the premises will be considered unsuitable for storing medicines. This may mean costly refurbishment work and significant delays to the licence application.

Plan Your Hong Kong Pharmaceutical Licensing Project with Drew Tang

Business Manager Tang Shangyong (Drew Tang) will review your products, operating model, licence type and preparation requirements with you one-to-one. The precise service scope is confirmed in writing; pharmaceutical duties are carried out by legally qualified personnel, and approvals are determined by the competent authorities.

Are there any specific requirements for the finishes and facilities of pharmaceutical premises (such as flooring, walls and lighting)?

Plan Your Hong Kong Pharmaceutical Licensing Project with Drew Tang