HKMMS Conservation Proposal 20230908

HONG KONG MUSEUM OF MEDICAL SCIENCES - MAIN BUILDING & ANNEX
CONSERVATION PROPOSAL
(R8) 8 September 2023

08.09.23 JC 019-239069-DOC-013.docm Page 1 of 104
PURCELL
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© Purcell 2023
Revision Record Date

Revision 0 27 March 2020
Revision 1 7 May 2020
Revision 2 19 October 2020
Revision 3 15 March 2021
Revision 4 14 April 2021
Revision 5 30 November 2021
Revision 6 13 June 2022
Revision 7 5 May 2023
Revision 8 8 September 2023

CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION 4
2.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 7
3.0 CHARACTER DEFINING ELEMENTS (INTERIOR) 9
4.0 CONDITION SURVEY 21
5.0 CONSERVATION PRINCIPLES 82
6.0 CONSERVATION APPROACHES 85
7.0 SCOPE OF WORKS WITHIN THIS FAS PROJECT 104
8.0 BIBLIOGRAPHY 105
Appendix A
The Hong Kong Museum of Medical Science Drainage System Inspection Report (Dated 9 January 2020)
Appendix A1
Drawings for Drainage Rectification Works
Appendix B
The Hong Kong Museum of Medical Science Structural Survey Report to the Main Building
(Dated September 2021)
Appendix B1 Crack Observations and Repair Proposal (Dated 30 November 2021)
Appendix C
CCTV Survey Report at No.2 Caine Lane, Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences (Dated 31 August 2019)
Appendix D
Termite Inspection Report at Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences (Dated 13 January 2020)
Appendix E
Last Manhole and Miscellaneous Survey, Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences (Dated 16 November 2020)
Appendix F
Manhole S1 Drainage Improvement Proposal by Architectural Services Department (Dated 29 March 2023)

1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 History
The Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences, also
known as the Old Bacteriological Institute, is located at
2 Caine Lane, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong. A major plague
occurred in Hong Kong in 1894, resulting in more than
2500 deaths. The Tai Ping Shan area, where the Institute HKMMS
is located, was severely affected by the plague and all
the buildings within the area were demolished and burnt.
The Bacteriological Institute was built in response to the
plague in 1905-1906 to enable research of
bacteriological examination and disease control.
Three buildings were originally built on the site, including Location of Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences
the main block and two subsidiary blocks: one single- Map Source: Geographical Information System on Hong Kong Heritage
storey block for attendants’ accommodation, and one
two-storey block for stable and animal accommodation.
The single-storey attendants’ block is the current Annex
Building, the two storey animal accommodation block
was demolished in 1980s and converted to an open
space, i.e. Caine Lane Garden.
Over time, the use of the buildings has changed. They
became the Pathological Institute after World War II,
and then a medical store used by the Department of
Health in the 1970s. A major renovation was undertaken
in the mid- 1990s which converted the building into its
current use, the Hong Kong Museum of Medical
Sciences.
1.2 Architecture
A photo dated 1910s showing Bacteriological Institute and its surroundings.
The buildings are built in the colonial Edwardian style. Source: Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences, originally from UK
Descriptions from the Public Works Report Year 1905 National Archive
are abstracted as below:
Bacteriological Institute. The buildings comprised under this
heading were designed by Messrs. LEIGH & ORANGE, who
also supervised their construction. They occupy a site,
20,776 square feet in extent, in the upper part of the
Taipingshan Resumed Area and consist of a main block and
two subsidiary blocks-one for servants’ quarters and the
other for animal houses, &c. The main block contains a
basement, ground floor and upper floor, and affords the
following accommodation : - 4 laboratories, each 28' 0” x
18' 0", a library, a combined waiting-room and office, a
photographic room and a spare room, each 20’0” x 12' 0”,
a store-room, incubating room, heating chamber and
refrigerating room, besides a hall and staircase, small dark- A photo dated 1974 as the Vaccine Production Centre
room, lavatories, &c. Balconies extend along the whole of Source: Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences
the north front on the ground and upper floors and there
are verandahs on the east, south and west fronts. One of
the subsidiary blocks (a one-storied building) affords
accommodation for 11 Chinese attendants, with kitchen,
&c., whilst the other (a two-storied building) contains a
stable ( 4 stalls and 2 loose boxes); houses for 5 cattle and
8 calves; 2 sheep-pens and suitable accommodation for
monkeys, fowls, rats, mice, guinea pigs and rabbits. There is

also a room for 4 Chinese attendants, a doctor's room, a
corn store and a fodder store.
All the buildings are of red brick, built in lime mortar and
pointed externally in cement mortar. The main building,
except where lined with tiles, is plastered internally; the
subsidiary buildings are pointed. The roofs are covered with
double pan and roll tiling, on timber purlins and principals.
The walls of the laboratories are lined for a height of 6 feet
and those of the dark-room and lavatories for a height of 3
feet with white glazed tiles. The two laboratories and all
other apartments on the ground floor, including verandahs,
&c., and the 2 laboratories and verandahs on upper floor
have floors of cement concrete, supported on rolled joists
External appearance of the Main Building of Hong Kong Museum of
and covered with encaustic tiles; the remaining apartments
Medical Sciences today
on the upper floor have teak floors supported on China fir
joists. The windows of the laboratories, which are placed in
the north front, are fixed and glazed with plate glass, the
balconies affording access for cleaning their outside surfaces.
Double doors are provided to all openings into the
laboratories, one door being glazed and the other filled in
with mosquito-proof wire gauze. The walls of the incubating
chamber are lined with asbestos and double doors are
provided to this apartment. A hot-water service is laid on to
all the laboratories from a vertical boiler in the heating
chamber.
The fittings for the laboratories were carried out by the
Public Works Department. They consist of long wall
benches, with teak tops and fitted with sinks; large centre
tables, also fitted with sinks; drawers, cupboards, &c. A fume
cupboard is also provided.
…… Principal staircase in the Main Building
The whole of the compounds are laid with lime concrete

surfaced with cement concrete and the site is enclosed by a
brick boundary wall, with iron entrance gates.
A good deal of buildings’ original features are preserved,
including the external general appearance and plan
layout, and the laboratory fittings. Some alteration has
been carried out through the building, notably the space
re-planning on basement floor, enclosure of verandahs
on ground floor and first floor, addition of metal escape
staircase on the northeast elevation.
1.3 Ownership and Responsibility for Maintenance

The buildings are government properties represented by
the Government Property Agency as the owner and Laboratory and its fittings in the Main Building
landlord. A tenancy agreement has been signed between
the Government and the Hong Kong Museum of
Medical Sciences Society (HKMMS) to rent the building
to the Museum.

From the tenancy agreement, it is noted that any 1.5 Existing Information
structural repairs and repairs related to external fabric
During the preparation of this Conservation Proposal,
(including the roof structure and covering) to the
the following drawings and documents provided by
buildings shall be the responsibility of the landlord
HKMMS where been made available:
(executed by Architectural Services Department). The
maintenance and repair of internal finishes, staircase, and
drains shall be the responsibility of the tenant (HKMMS).
Architectural drawings
1.4 Background and Scope of This Conservation • Refurbishment of the Pathological Institute (dated
Proposal 1989).
- Main Building Floor Plan
This report has been prepared based on visual
- Site Plan
observation and survey of condition from all readily
accessible locations and without any opening-up or
• Old Pathological Institute H. K. (Record Drawing
reference to structural drawings. Where elements are
dated 1992)
hidden behind furniture or concealed within the floor
- Site Plan
structure or otherwise obscured are out of reach, we
- North Elevation
have based our assessment on any associated evidence
- South Elevation
of defects. Therefore, the description of defects cannot
- East Elevation, Section
be regarded as comprehensive due to the limitation of
not disturbing historic fabric. It is therefore essential that
• Drawings by Llewelyn – Davies (dated 1993-1994)
the content of this survey report is to hand when any
- Site Plan
works are being undertaken so that any areas of
- Main Building Basement Plan
unknown condition can be identified and investigated.
- Main Building Ground Floor Plan
It shall be noted that for a normal FAS project, only - Main Building First Floor Plan
works intended to be executed are studied. However, - Outhouse Plan
in this specific FAS project at HKMMS, aspects not
proposed to be executed are also studied, such as the • Restoration to Pathological Institute (dated 1994)
condition of timber roof structure. This is to ensure the - Main Building Floor and location plan
condition of the buildings is well understood and a
Plan of Ceiling Joists (not dated)
forward working plan been proposed.
Plan of Roof Timber (not dated)
The following laboratory tests have been recommended
to be undertaken within this FAS project, these tests are • Renovation of Institute of Pathological at Caine Lane
directly related to repair items in the scope: (not dated)
- Existing Structural plan
- Paint analysis
- Ceiling plan, roof plan and sections
- Mortar analysis
- Timber species test to fretwork Building Services Drawing and Reports
The following laboratory tests/ opening up are not • Inspection of Buried Water Carrying Services for Lot
directly related to the repair items and therefore are not No. HKM-19 at Ex-Pathological Institute (Medical
proposed within this FAS project. They are only Museum), 2 Caine Lane, Mid-Level, Sheung Wan,
recommended to the museum if there is a need to Hong Kong, prepared by BUDA Engineering and
ascertain the structural strength of the building: Consultant Ltd dated 2009
- Carbonation testing of concrete
• Investigation Report on Water Leakage in the
- Brickwork strength test
Archive Room of Hong Kong Museum of Medical
- Opening up of fretwork to staircase to allow
Sciences, prepared by AECOM Asia Co. Ltd. dated
the survey of structural members
2017
- Timber species test to floor joists
- Timber species test to roof timber members
• Drainage layout plan retrieved from Drainage
Services Department dated 2017.

2.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This Conservation Proposal has been prepared to support the maintenance and repair works to the Hong Kong
Museum of Medical Sciences.
Character Defining Elements (CDE) to the interior of the building have been assessed and are categorised by
elements of a similar nature/ quality. In general, the higher the significance of the CDE, the smaller capacity of change
of change they can take. Disturbance to exceptional or high significance items is therefore required to be minimised,
unless it makes a positive contribution to its heritage value.
An internal condition survey was carried out throughout the Main Building, which is detailed in Section 4. In summary,
the basement floor is in fair condition, although there are some notable cracks and brick deterioration observed and
it has also suffered from lateral water penetration. The ground floor is generally in good condition, there are some
minor cracks on internal plastered walls and natural wear and tear to paintwork observed. The first floor is in fair
condition, however, water seepage is observed internally adjacent to the gutter on southwest elevation and cracks
are observed on a number of locations on internal walls.
Conservation policies are stated in Section 5 which are formulated from conservation principles set out in the Burra
Charter. This means that a cautious approach is required during the conservation works and should be carried out
with the appropriate knowledge, skills and conservation techniques.
Conservation goals in relation to the project have then been established using these principals and are outline in
Section 6, they include the following;
1. A termite survey carried out in January 2020 has revealed that there are no termites found in the main
building. A termite control system in the form of bait boxes will be installed in the Main Building and
external areas to future protect the historic fabric. Bait boxes are already installed in the Annex building.
Ongoing monitoring of the bait boxes will be provided to the Main building, Annex building, and external
areas within the Declared Monument boundary.
2. The structural condition of timber roof of the Main Building is fair. There is no evidence of damp or fungal
decay observed in the timber structure, however, there are various defects observed on the structural
members: notably, a number of shrinkage cracks on the timber purlins, a number of defective rafters, one
diagonal timber beam is sagged with its scarf joint opened up. It is recommended that the museum to
inform the landlord (Government Properties Agency) further review the condition of roof structural
members and covering and carry out necessary repairs to the roof.
3. The structural condition of timber staircase of the Main Building is generally good. As there is no major
structural defects observed to the staircase, however, a number of treads and riser are found slightly loose, it
is recommended to take off these treads, inspect the condition of the blocking, and refix securely.
4. The most common issue found with regards to joinery is defective paint and natural wear and tear of
paintwork. Where paintwork is in poor condition it is recommended to repaint such areas within this FAS
project.
5. There are a number of cracks identified in the Main Building, mainly on basement floor and first floor on the
internal walls and ceilings. They are classified into different categories so that different repair methods
applied. Brick stitching and local dentist replacement are recommended as a general approach to reinforce
and reconnect cracked walls.

6. There are above ground and below ground external stormwater drainage systems within the site.
a. As there are a number of mature trees within and around the site, the above ground drainage
system is vulnerable to leaves and debris blockage. Cleaning of leaves are debris will be essential as
museum’s daily maintenance works.
b. The below ground drainage system is malfunctioning. Manhole S1 is blocked, damaged and there is
no connection pipe to the public drainage system. Stormwater backflows to the gully trap near the
Main Building and after heavy rainwater laterally penetrates the external wall of the Main Building
into the basement.
c. A series of works are proposed in this FAS project to rectify defective drainage system, including
renewal of underground drainage pipework, reforming surface channels, and reconstruction of the
manhole S1. The outgoing drainage of S1 will be repaired by Architectural Services Department in
their drainage improvement proposal.
7. Leaf guards to the gutters are proposed to be installed to both the Main Building and Annex Building as
improvement works within the FAS project. This is a sensible, practical solution to a site surrounded with
trees. Its installation will minimise the risk of gutter and rainwater pipe blockage and consequent damage to
historic fabric. It will also reduce (but not eliminate) the amount of maintenance required.
8. The issue of dampness and ventilation is then discussed. Whilst the dampness issue to the basement floor of
the Main Building can largely been resolved by rectification of site-wide drain pipes and manholes,
nevertheless, use of correct equipment at correct timing is essential to keep the museum ambient
temperature and humidity at comfort and appropriate level and to avoid damage to historic fabric.
9. The existing access ladder and access hatch to the roof void of the Main Building is not fit-for-purpose. The
existing ladder is only installed at 3m above the floor, the existing access hatch is bulky to handle. Both are
lack of user friendliness. To meet current safety standards, a new proprietary permanent retractable ladder is
proposed in this FAS project together with enlarging the access hatch opening size. The existing plywood
walkway in the roof void will also be renewed on a like-for-like basis but securely fixed, with new handrails
installed on the walls where practical.
The purpose of all these approaches is to maintain the Monument in good state of repair so its heritage value can be
preserved. Thus, the building can be used by the museum’s staff and enjoyed by the public to a modern standard
whilst not diminishing its heritage value.

3.0 CHARACTER DEFINING ELEMENTS (INTERIOR)

This Schedule of Character Defining Elements (CDE’s) has been prepared to assist the management of the future
changes at the Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences (Old Bacteriological Institute) site. The levels of significance
and their meanings are derived from the work of James Semple Kerr.
The criteria used to assess the significance of each element are: (i) the association with the operation of the Old
Bacteriological Institute; and (ii) its architectural quality. Where these criteria conflict, the resultant assessment score
is aggregated. Where necessary, the assessment is explained further in the notes column.
Only interior CDE’s are identified in this report since the exterior façade of the building is managed by other parties,
namely the Architectural Services Department. Each entry in the schedule is accompanied by a photograph of a
sample of the item described. Similar examples of each item can be seen by observation.
Level of Meaning
significance
Exceptional Where an individual space or element is assessed as displaying a strong contribution
to the overall significance of the place. Spaces, elements or fabric exhibit a high
degree of intactness and quality, though minor alterations or degradation may be
evident.
High Where an individual space or element is assessed as making a substantial contribution
to the overall significance of the place. Spaces, elements or fabric originally of
substantial quality, yet may have undergone considerable alteration or adaption
resulting in presentation which is either incomplete or ambiguous. The category also
includes spaces, elements or fabric of average quality in terms of design and materials,
but which exhibit a high degree of intactness.
Moderate Where an individual space or element is assessed as making a moderate contribution
Positive
to the overall significance of the place. Spaces, elements or fabric originally of some
intrinsic quality, and may have undergone alteration or degradation. In addition,
elements of relatively new construction, where the assessment of significance is
difficult, may be included. This category also includes original spaces, elements or
fabric of any quality which have undergone extensive alteration or adaption.
Low Where an individual space or element is assessed as making a minor contribution to
the overall significance of the place, especially when compared to other features.
Spaces, elements or fabric originally of little intrinsic quality, any may have undergone
alteration or degradation. This category also includes original spaces, elements or
fabric of any quality which have undergone extensive alteration or adaption to the
extent that only isolated remnants survive (resulting in a low degree of intactness and
quality of presentation).
Neutral Where an individual space or element is assessed as having an unimportant
relationship with the overall significance of the place. Spaces, elements or fabric are
assessed as having little or no significance.

Item Description Significance Photo Reference Notes

Main Building Interior
MB-1 Encaustic tiles in High
staggered pattern in
the field with borders
in the main entrance
on G/F
MB-2 Timber floorboards in High

the internal rooms
and lobbies on G/F
and 1/F
MB-3 Encaustic tiles with High

borders on the
verandahs on G/F and
1/F
MB-4 Encaustic tiles with High

borders in the
laboratories on 1/F


MB-5 Moulded timber High Exceptionally deep
skirting at G/F and 1/F sections for a
building of this
scale.
MB-6 Fireplace with green High

glazed tile hearth and
timber surround at
1/F
MB-7 Fireplace with red High

glazed tile hearth at
1/F laboratories
MB-8 Fireplace hearth at Moderate The original

G/F fireplaces on G/F
have been
removed, only the
hearth tiles are
retained.

MB-9 White glazed wall tiles Moderate

within the laboratories
at 1/F
MB-10 Timber picture rails at Moderate

G/F and 1/F
MB-11 Original furniture fit- High

out within the
laboratories at1/F


MB-12 Painted brick walls, Moderate
arches and columns at
LG/F
MB-13 Lath and plaster Exceptional

ceiling of G/F staircase
lobby, with decorated
plaster moulding
MB-14 Timber boarded High From site

ceiling at 1/F, with inspection, it
timber fretwork and appears the
moulded cornice moulded cornice
is run on timber
battens


MB-15 Lath and plaster High
ceiling at B/F, G/F, 1/F,
with moulded plaster
cornice
MB-16 Timber staircase from Moderate

G/F to B/F with
timber balustrades,
handrails, newel posts,
and skirting
MB-17 Timber staircase from Exceptional

G/F to 1/F with
timber balustrades,
handrails, newel posts,
skirting, dado,
decorated moulded
panels and decorative
fretwork

MB-18 Goods lift within the High Historically used

staircase lobby to handle lab
materials. No
longer in use and
converted to pipe
duct currently.
MB-19 Timber door with High

moulded timber
architrave at the main
entrance


MB-20 Timber doors with High
fanlights and moulded
timber architraves
within internal rooms
MB-21 Timber doors with High

fanlights and moulded
timber architraves
facing the verandahs


MB-22 Timber doors installed Moderate Likely to be a
at 1/F facing the replacement of
verandah the original doors.
MB-23 Timber louvred Moderate Likely to be a

shutters installed at replacement of
1/F facing the the original
verandah shutters.
MB-24 Framed ledged and Moderate

braced doors at B/F


MB-25 Timber door and High
associated
ironmongery to the
Autopsy room at B/F.
MB-26 Palladian windows High

with stained glass and
moulded timber
architraves at the
staircase lobby
MB-27 Timber windows at Moderate

G/F and 1/F


MB-28 Timber windows Moderate The configuration
adjacent the main of the window has
entrance at G/F with been altered. The
moulded timber architrave is
architraves considered to be
original.
MB-29 Timber windows with Moderate

iron security bars and
external shutter at B/F
MB-30 Timber windows infill Neutral The timber

the arch openings of windows are later
the verandahs additions to the
building to enclose
the verandahs.
Main Building Roof

MB-31 King-post timber High
trusses


MB-32 Timber purlins and Moderate The round purlins
rafters are considered
original. The
rectangular purlins
are replacements.

4.0 CONDITION SURVEY

A Condition Survey was carried out in December 2019 of the internal spaces of the Main Building. The external
spaces (open verandahs, balconies, and façades) of the Main Building are managed by the Architectural Services
Department, so their condition has therefore not been inspected or described in this report.
A condition survey was carried out in April 2020 of the internal spaces of the Annex Building.
The condition survey was updated in May 2023 for both the Main Building and the Annex Building to address the
latest conditions, since the previous condition survey was carried out more than 3 years ago. There were some
further wear and tear and deterioration observed in the internal fabric.
Cross reference to the following documents:
- Appendix A, Drainage System Inspection Report prepared by MLP Engineering Limited for condition of
external drainage.
- Appendix B, Structural Survey Report prepared by MLP Engineering Limited for condition of the timber roof
structure and timber staircase of the Main Building.
- Appendix D, Termite Inspection Report prepared by Pestokill Pest Specialist Limited for termite survey.
The following monitoring indicators are used in this report to denote the condition and priorities.
Condition Monitoring indicator

Good Performing as intended and operating efficiently.
Fair Performing as intended but exhibiting minor deterioration.
Poor Exhibiting major defects and/or not operating as intended.
Very poor Life expired and/or serious risk of imminent failure.
Priority Monitoring Indicator Proposed Action

A Requires attention within the Repair/ maintenance works are recommended to be carried out
next 12 months. within this FAS project.
B Requires attention within the Generally internal redecoration works. They are not proposed to be
next 36 months carried out within the FAS project, but it is recommended the
Museum carry out within the next 36 months, or when there is a
proposed refurbishment/ redecoration project, whichever is sooner.
C Improvement works The works are generally considered restoration works rather than
repair/ maintenance works. These works are therefore not proposed
to be carried out within the FAS project, but it is recommended the
Museum study the feasibility and seek the Antiquity Authority’s
approval for such works.
R Existing fabric to be retained Minor deterioration/ damage is observed on the items/ elements;
in-situ. however, it is recommended to retain these elements in situ without
disturbance so that their significance can be preserved.
N No works expected within the No maintenance/ repair/ restoration works are considered to be
next 5 years. necessary in the short – medium term.

“See crack report” – Refer to Appendix B1, Crack Observation and Repair Proposal prepared by Purcell
and endorsed by MLP Engineering Ltd, for scope of repair, responsibility and priority. The building shows a number of
cracks in the masonry superstructure. These present varying degrees of priority and responsibility and are therefore
assessed separately.
For room numbers in the condition survey, refer to the following plans.




Main Building
Item Element Condition Priority Observations and Reference Photo

Recommendations
Basement Floor
B01 Lobby
B01 General - - General appearance of
appearance the lobby.
B01.1 Floor - - Modern carpet is laid -

on top of concrete
floor.
No defect is observed
on the floor. No works
required.
B01.2 Wall Fair A 2 nos. friable bricks are
surfaces and observed. Carry out
skirtings brickwork dentist
replacement.
B01.3 Ceilings Good N False ceiling is laid. It is

a modern plasterboard
ceiling. No defect is
observed on the false
ceiling.
No works required.
B01.4 Timber Fair B Natural wear and tear

doors is observed on timber
door.
Repaint timber door.


Recommendations
B01A Storeroom
B01A General - - General appearance of
appearance the storeroom.
B01A.1 Concrete Good N Concrete floor screed

floor screed is generally in good
condition.
No works required.
B01A.2 Wall Fair B Crack ref. BF-12 is

surfaces and observed on plastered
skirtings wall. See crack report
for detailed proposal.
Minor wear and tear is
observed on plastered
walls and skirtings.
Repaint walls.
B01A.3 Ceilings Fair B Minor paint damage is

observed on ceiling
surface.
Make good ceiling and
repaint.
B02, B03 The Herbalist Shop

appearance the gallery.


Recommendations
B02.1 Timber Good N Timber floorboards are -
floorboards in good condition.
No works required.
B02.2 Wall - - Wall surfaces are not -
surfaces inspected as covered
by timber panels.
B02.3 Ceilings - - Ceilings are not -
inspected as covered
by timber panels.
B04 Storeroom
B04.1 Concrete Good N Concrete floor screed -

condition.
No works required.
B04.2 Wall Poor See Crack ref. BF-9 is
surfaces and crack observed on painted
skirtings report wall. See crack report
B04.3 Ceilings Good N Concrete ceiling is

generally in good
condition.
No works required.


Recommendations
B05 Storeroom
B05.1 Concrete Good N Concrete floor screed

condition.
No works required.
B05.2 Wall Fair See Crack ref. BF-18, 19 are

skirtings report brick wall. See crack
report for detailed
proposal.
B05.3 Wall Fair A One brick is found

surfaces and deteriorated and
skirtings friable.
Indent replacement and
make good decoration.


Recommendations
B05.4 Wall Fair A Sign of previous water
surfaces and ingress is observed on
skirtings the wall below
window. A new
drainage channel has
been formed externally
to mitigate the water
ingress issue.
Repaint entire SW wall
within room B05.
B05.5 Ceilings Good N Concrete ceiling is

generally in good
condition.
No works required.
B06 Storeroom

condition.
No works required.


Recommendations
B06.2 Wall Poor A Approximate 25 bricks
surfaces and deteriorated and friable
skirtings on NW and NE walls.
Remove redundant low
cabinet and inspect
brick condition.
Remove paint media to
inspect condition of
brickwork, carry out
dentist brick
replacement (allow for
50 bricks to be
replaced) and repaint
the walls.
B06.3 Wall Poor See Crack ref. BF-10, 11 are
report for detailed
proposal.
B06.4 Ceilings Fair See Crack ref. BF-11A is

crack observed on concrete
report ceiling. See crack report


Recommendations
B07, B09, B10 Lower Gallery Exhibition Room
appearance the gallery.
B07.1 Concrete - - Carpet is laid on top of -

floor screed concrete floor.
Concrete floor has not
been inspected.
B07.2 Wall Good N Painted brickwork and -
surfaces and rendered skirtings are
skirtings in good condition.
No works required.
B07.3 Ceilings Good N Ceilings are in good -
condition.
No works required.


Recommendations
B07.4 Timber Good N Internal side of the
windows timber windows is in
good condition. No
sign of rot is observed.
No works required.
B08 Former Autopsy Room

appearance the former autopsy
room.

condition.
No works required.
B08.2 Wall Good N Plastered wall and -
surfaces and rendered skirtings are
skirtings in good condition.
No works required.
condition.
No works required.
B08.4 Timber door Good N Timber door of the
room is in good
condition.
No works required.


Recommendations
B11 Storeroom

condition.
No works required.
B11.2 Wall Poor See Crack ref. BF-06 is
report for detailed
proposal.
B11.3 Ceilings Good N Ceilings are in good

condition.
No works required.


Recommendations
B12 Storeroom
B12.1 Concrete Poor See Cracks ref. BF-3, BF-7

floor screed crack are observed on
report concrete floor screed.
See crack report for
detailed proposal.
B12.2 Wall Poor See Cracks ref. BF-1, Bf-2,

surfaces and crack BF-4, BF-8, BF-15, BF-
skirtings report 16 are observed on
painted brick wall. See
crack report for
detailed proposal.

skirtings on NE and SE walls.
Remove paint media to
inspect condition of
brickwork, carry out
dentist brick
replacement and
repaint.
condition.
No works required.


Recommendations
B13 Pump Room
appearance the pump room.

condition.
No works required.
skirtings on all walls.
Locally remove paint
media to inspect
condition of brickwork,
indent replacement and
repaint.
B13.3 Ceilings Poor A Spalling concrete is

observed on concrete
ceiling. (approx. 1 sqm)
Remove spalled
concrete to expose
reinforcement bars.
Take concrete sample
and commission
carbonation test.
Remove rust and treat
re-bars with rust
inhibitor. Apply patch
repairs and decorate
entire ceiling.


Recommendations
B14 Storeroom

condition.
No works required.
B14.2 Wall Poor See Cracks ref. BF-5, Bf-14,
surfaces and crack BF-20, BF-21, are
skirtings report observed on painted
brick wall. See crack
report for detailed
proposal.

condition.
No works required.
B15 Archive Room
appearance the archive room.

condition.
No works required.


Recommendations
B15.2 Wall Poor A Signs of previous water
surfaces and ingress at low level of
skirtings the SW wall.
See below section for
drainage rectification
works.
Repaint the walls when
works are completed.
condition.
No works required.
B15.4 Timber Good N Timber doors are in
doors good condition.
No works required.
B16 Archive Room

appearance the archive room.

condition.
No works required.


Recommendations
B16.2 Wall Poor A Signs of previous water
surfaces and ingress at low level of
skirtings the SE and SW walls.
See below section for
works.
Repaint the entire
room when drainage
rectification works are
completed.

condition.
No works required.
B17 Storeroom
B17.1 Concrete Good N Concrete floor screed

condition.
No works required.


Recommendations
B17.2 Wall Poor A Cracked/ hollow/
surfaces and friable plaster and
skirtings damp patch on the SE
and SW walls (approx.
8 sqm).
Remove defective
plaster, re-coat with
lime plaster and
redecorate.
B17.3 Ceilings Fair A Cracked/ hollow/

friable plaster or paint
on NW corner of the
concrete ceiling and
brick corbels. Remove
defective plaster and
paint to inspect
condition of the
substrate, re-coat with
lime plaster and
redecorate.

Item Element Condi- Priority Observations and Reference Photo

tion Recommendations
Ground Floor
G01 Entrance Lobby
G01 General - - General appearance of the
appearance entrance lobby.
G01.1 Floor tiles Fair R Natural wear and tear on

historic encaustic floor tiles.
The tiles to be retained in-
situ.
G01.2 Timber wall Fair A Moderate deterioration of

panels paint on timber wall panels.
Repaint the timber wall
panels.
G01.3 Timber Fair A Moderate deterioration of

ceiling boards paint on timber ceiling
with fretwork boards with fretwork.
Repaint timber ceiling
boards and fretwork.


G01.4 Entrance Fair A Paint wear and tear and
Timber door deterioration is observed
and metal on timber doors. Rust on
gate metal gate.
Repaint timber doors.
Remove rust and repaint
metal gate.
G01.5 Entrance Poor See Crack ref. GF-16 between

Timber door crack timber architrave and
report plastered wall. See crack
report for detailed
proposal.
G02 Central Lobby

appearance central lobby.
G02.1 Timber Fair B Wear and tear on the

floorboards timber floor boards to
approx. 2 sqm.
Redecorate floorboards.


G02.2 Timber Fair A One floorboard is found
floorboard loose near the counter.
Carefully lift up affected
floodboard, refix, and make
good decoration.
G02.3 Timber Good N Timber skirtings and dados

skirtings and are in good condition in
dados general.
No works required.
G02.4 Wall surfaces Fair A Minor wear and tear on

plastered wall surfaces.
Repaint walls.
G02.5 Ceilings and Poor See Crack ref. GF-17 on ceiling

cornices crack cornice. See crack report
report for detailed proposal.
G02.6 Timber Fair A Paint wear and tear and

enclosure to deterioration is observed
old cargo on the enclosure.
lifting
Repaint the timber
enclosure


G03 Library
appearance library.
G03.1 Timber Fair R Approximate 2sq.m of local

floorboards replacement of timber
floorboards and signs of
water saturation.
Redecorate entire floor.
G03.2 Glazed tiles Fair R At former fireplace hearth,

there are green glazed tiles.
7nos. tiles are damaged,
3nos. tiles are cracked.
Retain in-situ.
G03.3 Skirtings Fair A Paint wear and tear is

observed on timber
skirting.
Repaint skirting.
G03.4 Wall surfaces Fair A Damage on the plastered

moulding of the pilaster.
Make good damage on the
plaster moulding of the
pilaster.


G03.5 Wall surfaces Fair A Wear and tear on plastered
wall surfaces.
Repaint walls including
sprinkler pipes fixed on the
walls.
G03.6 Ceilings and Fair A Paint deterioration on the

cornices ceiling.
Repaint ceiling.
G03.7 Timber doors Fair A Wear and tear on timber

door.
G04 FWD Life Insurance Gallery

appearance gallery.
G04.1 Timber Good N Timber floorboards are in

floorboards good condition.
No works required.


G04.2 Glazed tiles Fair R At former fireplace hearth,
there are red glazed tiles.
2no. tiles are damaged.
Retain in-situ.
G04.3 Skirtings Good N Timber skirtings are in As above

good condition.
No works required.
G04.4 Wall surfaces - N Walls are mostly covered -
by display panels.
No works required.
G04.5 Ceilings and Good N Ceilings and cornices are in
cornices good condition.
No works required.
G04.6 Timber doors Fair B Minor wear and tear is

observed on timber door.
G05 Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Charity Foundation Gallery

appearance gallery
G05.1 Concrete - - Carpet is laid on top of -

floor concrete floor. Concrete
floor has not been
inspected.


G05.2 Skirtings Good N Plain timber skirtings are in
good condition.
No works required.

by display panels.
No works required.
G05.4 Ceilings Good N Ceilings and cornices are in
good condition.
No works required.
G05.5 Timber doors Good N Timber doors are in good

condition apart from minor
wear and tear.
No works required.
G06 Madam Ku Kei Kwan Priscilla Gallery

appearance gallery.
G06.1 Concrete - - Carpet is laid on top of -

floor concrete floor. Concrete
floor has not been
inspected.
G06.2 Skirtings Good N Plain timber skirtings are in -
good condition.
No works required.


by display panels.
No works required.
good condition.
No works required.
G06.5 Timber doors Fair B Minor wear and tear on

timber door.
G07 Pantry
appearance pantry.
G07.1 Vinyl floor on Fair C Vinyl floor has been laid on

tiles top of historic encaustic
floor tiles.
Remove vinyl tiles and
adhesive to expose historic
tiles permanently and clean
the tiles.
G07.2 Skirtings Fair B Wear and tear on moulded -

timber skirtings.
Repaint timber skirtings.


G07.3 Wall surfaces Fair See Cracks ref. GF-2, 3, 3A on
crack plastered wall. See crack
report report for detailed
proposal.

good condition.
No works required.
G07.5 Timber Good N Timber windows are in -

windows good condition.
No works required.
G08 Storeroom
appearance room.
G08.1 Floor tiles Fair R Wear and tear on historic

encaustic floor tiles.
Tiles to be retained in-situ.


G08.2 Wall surfaces Poor A Plywood panel below
window cill is wet and
rotten. Replace with new
weather-proof board.
G08.3 Ceilings Fair B Stain on ceiling facing SW,

possibly due to old water
ingress. The room above
G08 is 104 at the open
verandah. If drainage outlet
is blocked at the verandah,
water ingress could occur
to room below.
Repaint ceiling.
G09 Office
appearance office.
G09.1 Floor tiles Poor A Wear and tear on encaustic

floor tiles. Old cement
repair patches near the
door opening. The cement
repair patches are now
loose.
Remove loose cement
patches and install new tiles
to match existing to the
affected area (approx.
0.1x2m).
G09.2 Skirtings Good N Rendered skirtings are in -
good condition.
No works required.


G09.3 Wall surfaces Fair A Approximate 10 bricks
deteriorated and friable on
NW and SW corner.
Carry out dentist
replacement to
deteriorated bricks.
G09.4 Wall surfaces Fair A Cracked plastered

moulding is observed on
the pier.
Make good plaster and
paint.
G09.5 Wall surfaces Fair A Missing pointing (20 holes)

is observed on the bricks
joints.
Repoint brickwork joints
with cement mortar to
match existing.
G09.6 Wall surfaces Fair A Plywood panel below

window cill is wet and
rotten. Replace with new
weather-proof board.
G09.7 Ceilings Good N Concrete ceiling which is

the slab of 1/F verandah is
generally in good condition.
No works required.


G09.8 Timber doors Fair A Minor wear and tear on
timber door.
G10 Storeroom
appearance room.
G10.1 Floor tiles Fair A One crack is observed in

the floor tiles (approx. 1m
long).
Carefully cut out cracked
tiles and inspect substrate.
Prepare and grout crack in
concrete slab and re-lay
salvageable tiles. Allow for
supply of 10 no. new tiles
to match existing.
G10.2 Skirtings Good N Rendered skirtings are in -
good condition.
No works required.
G10.3 Wall surfaces Good N Brickwork surfaces are
No works required.


No works required.

timber door.
G11, G12, G13, G14 The HK Tuberculosis, Chest & Heart Diseases Association Gallery
appearance gallery.
G12
G13
G14


G11.1 Floor tiles Fair A Approximate 10sq.m of
historic tiles have been
replaced by modern tiles
which are not in keeping
with the original tiles and
diminishing its value. Some
of the tiles are now loose.
Replace the modern tiles
with tiles that match the
existing in terms of size,
colour, texture and pattern.
G11.2 Floor tiles Fair A Approximate 3 nos. tiles

are found loose and
uneven on the SW corner.
Carefully lift up, re-bed and
re-point.
G11.3 Skirtings Good N Rendered skirtings are in

good condition.
No works required.
G11.4 Wall surfaces Good N Brickwork surfaces are

No works required.


No works required.

timber door.
G15 Toilet
appearance toilet.
G15.1 Floor tiles Good N Historic encaustic floor tiles

are generally in good
condition.
No works required.
G15.2 Wall surfaces Fair See Minor defective plaster.

crack Refer to ref. GF-7 in crack
report report for details.


G15.3 Ceilings Good N Concrete ceilings are
No works required.
G15.4 Timber doors Fair B Wear and tear on timber -

door.
G16 Plant Room
appearance plant room.
G16.1 Floor tiles Fair A Approximate 500 x

500mm of historic tiles
have been replaced by
cement patches where an
old pipe exists. Some tiles
are damaged and loosed.
Remove cement patches
and remains of the old
pipe, make good floor slab
and replace with new
encaustic tiles to match
historic pattern.
G16.2 Skirtings Good N Timber skirtings are in -
good condition apart from
minor wear and tear.
No works required.
G16.3 Wall surfaces Fair See Cracks ref. GF-9, 10, 11, 12,
crack 13, 14, 15 are observed on
report timber wall panels. See
crack report for detailed
proposal.


G16.4 Ceilings Good N Timber ceilings are
No works required.
G16.5 Timber doors Fair B Wear and tear on timber -

door. Repaint timber door.
G17 Balcony (maintained by Architectural Services Department, not surveyed in this report)


First Floor
101 Lobby
101 General - - General appearance of the
appearance lobby.
101.1 Timber Good N Timber floorboards are in

No works required.
101.2 Skirtings Good N Timber skirtings are in -

good condition apart from
minor wear and tear.
No works required.
101.3 Wall surfaces Fair A Water mark on NW wall
(approx. 4sqm), due to
previous water ingress
(suspected overflowing
from gutter). Wear and
tear is observed on all
walls. Remove defective
paint and repaint all walls.
101.4 Wall surfaces Fair See Cracks ref. 1F-52 on

crack plastered walls. See crack
proposal.


101.5 Ceilings Poor A Major paint deterioration
and flaking on timber
boarded ceiling, fretwork
and cornices.
Fretwork is found damaged
on NE side of the room
above goods lift.
Replace damaged section
of fretwork to match
existing in timber species
and profile.
Carry out timber species
test on timber fretwork.
Remove defective paint
and repaint entire ceiling.
101.6 Timber Fair A Paint deterioration is

windows observed on the timber
windows.
Repaint timber windows
internally.
101.7 Timber doors Fair A Paint wear and tear and

deterioration is observed
on the timber doors.
101.8 Timber Fair A Paint wear and tear and

enclosure to deterioration is observed
old cargo on the enclosure.
lifting
Repaint the timber
enclosure


102 TWGHs Philip Thomas Tam Memorial Exhibition Gallery
appearance gallery.
102.1 Timber Good N Timber floorboards are in

No works required.
102.2 Skirtings Good N Timber skirtings are in -

good condition.
No works required.
102.3 Fireplace with Good N Fireplace, green tiles, and
green tiles timber surrounds are in
and timber good condition.
surrounds
No works required.
102.4 Wall surfaces Poor See Cracks ref. 1F-4, 5, 6, 8, 44

crack on plastered walls. See
report crack report for detailed
proposal.
Repaint all 4 walls in the
room.


102.5 Ceilings Fair B Paint deterioration on
timber boarded ceiling,
fretwork and cornices.
Repaint entire ceiling.
102.6 Timber doors Fair A Moderate shrinkage cracks

and wear and tear on
timber doors.
103 Storeroom
appearance storeroom.
103.1 Floor tiles Fair R Wear and tear on historic



103.2 Wall surfaces Fair See Crack ref. 1F-1 on
proposal.
103.3 Ceilings Fair See Crack ref. 1F-3 on

crack plastered ceiling. See crack
proposal.
103.4 Timber doors Fair A Wear and tear on timber

door.
104 105 Verandahs (maintained by Architectural Services Department, not surveyed in this report)
106 Gordon King Gallery
appearance gallery.
106.1 Floor Fair R There are some past

restoration observation on
the tiles. Variation to
pattern and colour is
observed.
Retain these tiles as a
demonstration of past
restoration.


106.2 Skirtings Good N Plain timber skirtings are in
good condition.
No works required.
106.3 Wall surfaces Fair A Moderate paint

deterioration on plastered
wall surfaces.
Repaint walls.
106.4 Fireplace Good N Fireplace is in good

condition.
No works required.
106.5 Ceilings Fair A Moderate paint

deterioration on the ceiling.
Approximate 5 lin.m of
timber fretwork damaged/
cracked. Replace damaged
section of fretwork to
match existing in timber
species and profile.
test on timber fretwork.
Repaint entire ceiling.
106.6 Timber doors Fair B Minor wear and tear on
timber door.


107 The Old Laboratory
appearance old laboratory.
107.1 Tiled floor Fair R There are some past

restoration observation on
the tiles. Variation to
pattern and colour is
observed.
Retain these tiles as a
demonstration of past
restoration.
107.2 Tiled floor Fair A Approximate 3 nos. tiles

are found loose and
uneven on the NE corner.
Carefully lift up, re-bed and
re-point.
107.3 Wall surfaces Poor See Cracks ref. 1F-19, 37 on

crack plastered/tiled wall. See
report crack report for detailed
proposal.


107.4 Wall surfaces Poor A Missing pointing is resulting
in water ingress.
Make good pointing on the
balcony side, remove
defective paint on the wall,
and ceiling and repaint.
107.5 Fireplace Fair A Approximate 150 x

1000mm of historic tiles
have been replaced by
modern tiles which are not
in keeping with the original
tiles and diminishing its
value. Some of the tiles are
now loose.
Replace the modern tiles
with tiles that match the
existing in terms of size,
colour, texture and pattern.
107.6 Ceilings Fair See Hairline cracks ref. 1F-22,
crack 24, 27 in cornice. See crack
proposal.

timber door.


108 Game Room
appearance room.
108.1 Tiled floor Fair R Wear and tear on historic

108.2 Skirtings Good N Rendered skirtings are in -

good condition.
No works required.
108.3 Wall surfaces Good N Brickwork surfaces are -
No works required.
108.4 Ceilings Good N Plaster ceilings are generally
in good condition.
No works required.

timber door.


109 Museum Office
appearance office.
109.1 Floor - - Carpet is laid on top of -

timber floorboards.
Floorboards have not been
inspected.
109.2 Skirtings Good N Rendered skirtings are in -
good condition.
No works required.
109.3 Wall surfaces Poor See Crack ref. 1F-51 on
proposal.
109.4 Fireplace with Good N Fireplace, green tiles, and -

green tiles timber surrounds are in
and timber good condition.
surrounds
No works required.
109.5 Ceilings Fair N Timber ceiling boards are in
good condition.
No works required.


109.6 Timber doors Poor A The strike plate at the
entrance timber door is
loose. Timber substrate
behind the strike plate is
also found hollow due to
excessive use.
Cut out section of
defective timber, piece in
new section to match
existing in terms of timber
species and profile.
test on timber door frame.
110 Toilet
appearance toilet.
110.1 Floor Good N Historic encaustic floor tiles

are generally in good
condition.
No works required.
110.2 Wall surfaces Poor A Water mark on SW wall

(approx. 2sq.m), due to
previous water ingress
(suspected overflowing
from gutter).
Repaint affected area.


110.3 Ceilings Poor - Crack ref. 1F-46 is
observed on cornice. See
crack report for detailed
proposal.
Major paint deterioration
on cornice and plaster
ceiling. Repaint entire
ceiling and cornice.

timber door.
111 Office
appearance office.

floor tiles. Floor tiles have
not been inspected.
No works required.
111.3 Ceilings Good N Plaster ceilings are generally -
in good condition.
No works required.
timber door.


112 Office
appearance office.

floor tiles. Floor tiles have
not been inspected.
No works required.
112.3 Ceilings Good N Plaster ceilings are generally -
in good condition.
No works required.
112.4 Timber doors Fair B Minor shrinkage cracks and
paint wear and tear on
timber doors.
113 Balcony (maintained by Architectural Services Department, not surveyed in this report)
Staircases
Timber Staircase G/F-1/F
ST01 General - - General appearance of
appearance timber staircase from G/F-
1/F.
Cross reference to section
5.4 of the Structural Survey
Report for the condition of
the staircase.


ST01.1 Skirting Fair N Skirting is part-rendered
part-timber. Crack at
junction of dissimilar
materials.
No works required on the
skirting.
ST01.2 Timber dado Fair A Timber dado rail slightly

loose at half landing.
Carefully remove timber
dado and refix; make good
decoration.
ST01.3 Timber Poor A The timber staircase is

treads and varnished with modern
risers polyurethane varnish.
Decoration has been worn
out.
Redecorate all timber
treads. Consider overlaying
with a drugget to protect
treads.
ST01.4 Timber Fair A Treads and risers are found

treads and slightly loose at steps 14,
risers 21, and 28. Carefully take
up loose risers and treads
at steps 14, 21, and 28,
inspect staircase structure.
Repair if necessary and refix
securely afterwards.


ST01.5 Timber Fair A Timber balusters at steps
balustrades 13, 17, 18, and 19 slightly
loose.
This is considered not a
structural issue as the
timber balusters are not
structural element to the
staircase. The strcutral
elements: timber newel
posts and handrails stand
straight firmly connected to
the supporting slab without
tilting.
Refix balusters securely.
ST01.6 Timber Good N Timber newel posts are in
newel posts good condition apart from
very minor wear and tear.
No works required.
Timber Staircase G/F-B/F

ST02 General - - General appearance of
appearance timber staircase from G/F-
B/F.
ST02.1 Skirting Good N Rendered skirting is in good -

condition.
No works required.
ST02.2 Timber Good N Timber treads are in good -
treads condition.
No works required.
ST02.3 Timber Good N Timber balustrades are in -
balustrades good condition.
No works required.
ST02.4 Timber Good N Timber newel posts are in -
newel posts good condition.
No works required.


Annex Building
Ground Floor
A01 and A02 Toilets
A01 General - - General appearance of the
appearance toilet.
A01.1 Floor tiles Good N Floor tiles are in good

condition.
No works required apart
from general cleaning.
A01.2 Wall surfaces Poor TBC There are a number of

structural cracks observed
on the toilet rooms A01
and A02. The cracks are
developed due to
movement caused by the
revetment walls 11SW-
A/R94 and R87. It is
recommended that
Architectural Services
Department/ Civil
Engineering and
Development Department
to further investigate the
cracks and recommend a
remedial proposal.
Monitoring points should
be put on the cracks.
A01.3 Timber Good N Timber rafters and purlins

rafters and are in good condition.
purlins
No works required.


A03 Room
appearance room.

condition.
No works required.
A03.2 Wall surfaces Fair A Localised loose and

defective plaster is
observed. Paint wear and
tear is observed on the wall
surfaces and skirtings.
Remove loose and
defective plaster. Replaster
with lime plaster. Repaint
100% wall and skirtings.
A03.3 Timber Good N Timber rafters, purlins, and

rafters, trusses are in good
purlins, and condition.
trusses
No works required.


A03.4 Timber Fair A Paint wear and tear and
windows deterioration is observed
on the timber windows.
Repaint 4 nos. of timber
windows, colour to match
existing.
A03.5 Timber doors Fair A Paint wear and tear and As above
doors, colour to match
existing.
A04 Room
appearance room.
A04.1 Floor tiles Good N Floor tiles are in good -

condition.
No works required.
A04.2 Wall surfaces Fair A Paint wear and tear is
observed on the wall
surfaces and skirtings.
Repaint 100% wall and
skirtings.

trusses
No works required.


A04.4 Timber doors Poor A On one internal timber, the
screw fixings at the hinge
are loose, resulting sagging
of the timber door.
Carry out timber repair at
the hinge location as
necessary. Overhaul and
refix screws to the hinges.
A04.5 Timber doors Fair A Paint wear and tear and

existing.
A04.6 Timber Fair A Paint wear and tear and

existing.
A05 Room
appearance room.

condition.
No works required.


A05.2 Wall surfaces Fair A There are approximately
15m linear loose/ missing
pointing at the brickwork
joint.
10 nos. bricks are found
friable and eroded.
Remove loose pointing,
repoint missing pointing
with lime mortar.
Carry out 10 nos. dentist
brick replacement.
A05.3 Wall surfaces Fair TBC Cracks are observed at the

of the internal walls
perpendicular to the east
elevation façade wall. Tell-
tales are installed at these
locations.
It is recommended that
Architectural Services
Department to further
investigate the cracks and
recommend a remedial
proposal.

trusses
No works required.


A05.5 Timber doors Fair A Paint wear and tear and
Repaint 1 no. of timber
existing.
A05.6 Timber Fair A Paint wear and tear and As above

existing.
A06 Former Kitchen and Pump Room
appearance former kitchen.

condition.
No works required apart
from general cleaning.


A06.2 Former stove Fair A There are approximately
10 nos. damaged bricks and
2m linear missing pointing.
Carry out dentist
replacement to damaged
bricks and repoint missing
pointing with lime mortar.
A06.3 Wall surfaces Poor A Paint failure is observed on

the wall surfaces. Remove
defective paint and repaint
all wall surfaces.

trusses
No works required.
A06.5 Timber doors Poor A Paint wear and tear and

existing.


A06.6 Timber Poor A Paint wear and tear and
existing.

5.0 CONSERVATION PRINCIPLES
5.1 Conservation Principles
In accordance with the definition of ‘Conservation Principles’ as stated in The Australia ICOMOS Charter for Places of
Cultural Significations, The Burra Charter, 2013 (Burra Charter), the following conservation principles should be
adopted in the FAS project:
Article 1. Definitions
1.4 Conservation means all the processes of looking after a place so as to retain its cultural significance
1.5 Maintenance means the continuous protective care of a place, and its setting.
Maintenance is to be distinguished from repair which involves restoration or reconstruction.
1.6 Preservation means maintaining a place in its existing state and retarding deterioration.
1.7 Restoration means returning a place to a known earlier state by removing accretions or by reassembling existing
elements without the introduction of new material.
1.8 Reconstruction means returning a place to a known earlier state and is distinguished from restoration by the
introduction of new material.
Article 3. Cautious approach
3.1 Conservation is based on a respect for the existing fabric, use, associations and meanings. It requires a cautious
approach of changing as much as necessary but as little as possible.
3.2 Changes to a place should not distort the physical or other evidence it provides, nor be based on conjecture.
Article 4. Knowledge, skills and techniques
4.1 Conservation should make use of all the knowledge, skills and disciplines which can contribute to the study and
care of the place
4.2 Traditional techniques and materials are preferred for the conservation of significant fabric. In some circumstances
modern techniques and materials which offer substantial conservation benefits may be appropriate.
Article 10. Contents
Contents, fixtures and objects which contribute to the cultural significance of a place should be retained at that place.
Their removal is unacceptable unless it is: the sole means of ensuring their security and preservation; on a temporary
basis for treatment or exhibition; for cultural reasons; for health and safety; or to protect the place. Such contents,
fixtures and objects should be returned where circumstances permit and it is culturally appropriate.

Article 15. Change
15.1 Change may be necessary to retain cultural significance but is undesirable where it reduces cultural significance.
The amount of change to a place and its use should be guided by the cultural significance of the place and its
appropriate interpretation.
15.4 The contributions of all aspects of cultural significance of a place should be respected. If a place includes fabric,
uses, associations or meanings of different periods, or different aspects of cultural significance, emphasising or
interpreting one period or aspect at the expense of another can only be justified when what is left out, removed
or diminished is of slight cultural significance and that which is emphasised or interpreted is of much greater cultural
significance.
Article 16. Maintenance
Maintenance is fundamental to conservation. Maintenance should be undertaken where fabric is of cultural significance
and its maintenance is necessary to retain that cultural significance.
Article 17. Preservation
Preservation is appropriate where the existing fabric or its condition constitutes evidence of cultural significance, or
where insufficient evidence is available to allow other conservation processes to be carried out.
Article 18. Restoration and reconstruction
Restoration and reconstruction should reveal culturally significant aspects of the place.
Article 19. Restoration
Restoration is appropriate only if there is sufficient evidence of an earlier state of the fabric.
Article 20. Reconstruction
20.1 Reconstruction is appropriate only where a place is incomplete through damage or alteration, and only where
there is sufficient evidence to reproduce an earlier state of the fabric. In some cases, reconstruction may also be
appropriate as part of a use or practice that retains the cultural significance of the place.
Article 22. New work
22.1 New work such as additions or other changes to the place may be acceptable where it respects and does not
distort or obscure the cultural significance of the place or detract from its interpretation and appreciation.
22.2 New work should be readily identifiable as such but must respect and have minimal impact on the cultural
significance of the place.

5.2 Conservation Goals

Main Building
• To carry out termite inspection to structural timber and joinery, and to introduce a termite control system
(i.e. bait boxes) in the building to provide long-term termite control measures.
• To record the existing condition of structural timber elements, especially the roof structure, to inform decisions
about its future repair, which may include replacing the roof covering (any repair works to the roof coverings
are to be carried out by the Architectural Services Department).
• To record the existing condition of joinery, and to repair and redecorate any joinery that is in poor condition
• To carry out minor repairs to the main timber staircase by re-fixing loose timber balusters.
• To redecorate timber staircase from G/F to 1/F
• To carry out repairs to internal brickwork and plaster, including repairing cracks and defective plaster works
• To repair/ replace damaged or improperly restored encaustic floor tiles
• To install a permanent means of maintenance access to and within the Attic to enable safe regular inspection,
cleaning and maintenance works by installation of retractable ladder and safe access walkway.
• To install leaf guards on the eaves gutters to minimise the need for maintenance and the risk of gutter/outlet
blockage.
• To overhaul the existing drainage channel at the roof valley of the southwest elevation.
External Drainage
• To replace defective manholes and underground pipework to maintain the rainwater drainage system
functioning as intended.
Annex Building
• To monitor the existing bait boxes installed in the Annex Building for a year in three months intervals.
• To repair internal brickwork and pointing
• To install leaf guards on the eaves gutter to minimise the need for maintenance and the risk of gutter/outlet
blockage.

6.0 CONSERVATION APPROACHES
Main Building
6.1 Termite survey, eradication, control, and

monitoring
There are many timber elements within the Main
Building, namely the roof structure, window, doors,
ceilings, staircases, architraves and skirtings. These are all
important Character Defining Elements and add to the
significance of the building.
Termite inspection is therefore an important first task to
undertake and will help safeguard original architectural
features and help to provide public safety.
A termite inspection was carried out in January 2020 and
there are no live termites found within the Main Building.
However, it is observed on the external steps at the main
entrance that there are signs of previous termite
infestation and repair is required. See below section 6.4 Damaged treads on the external timber staircase
for details.
A termite control system, i.e. bait boxes will be installed
to the Main Building and the External Areas within the
Declared Monument boundary under the FAS project.
6.2 Timber roof

The roof is constructed with hardwood trusses
supporting circular softwood purlins. Some replacement
rectangular hardwood purlins are observed. Overall, the
structural condition of timber roof is fair. There is no
evidence of damp or fungal decay observed in the timber
structure during the site visits in preparation of this
report. Details of the survey are described in The Hong
Kong Museum of Medical Sciences Structural Survey
Report to the Main Building carried out by MLP
Overall appearance of timber roof at Main Building
Engineering Limited in January 2020. An executive
summary of the findings is below.
1) The most common issue found is shrinkage

cracks on timber purlins. Shrinkage cracks are
usually caused by humidity change in the
environment. When the ambient temperature
drops, the wood cells in the outer rings of a
timber section dry faster than those within the
core and contract faster which forms cracks in
a radial direction. The direction and depth of
the cracks should be measured. If cracks appear
on the surface, it is not likely to be a structural
issue and a cosmetic repair can be carried out
if required. Otherwise, its strength shall be Shrinkage Cracks observed on timber purlins
calculated and verified to determine whether
replacement or strengthening is required.
However, a number of deep shrinkage cracks
are observed on the purlins (depth of the crack
is greater than one fourth of the purlin’s

diameter), which represents a reduction in
structural strength.
2) Scarf joint repairs are observed on timber truss/

beam refs. MT6, MT7, and MT8. These joints
are strengthened by steel plates with bolt
connections. This type of repair is common
practice when repairing sections of decayed
timber. It is observed on MT8 that the scarf
joint at the mid-span has opened up by 14mm,
and the beam is, unsurpringly found to be
slightly sagging at the mid-span. There is
however no breakage of timber fibre found at
or near the sagging point. Scarf joint opens up at MT8
Overall, although the load transfer has become

less effective due to above defects, there is no
immediate concern on the structural
performance on the roof. This is because of the
inherent redundancy in the load paths provided
by the roof structure.
3) Steel connector plates fastened by bolts are

observed at the joints of timber trusses. These
connector plates are likely to be later additions
to keep the timber members from moving
apart. All connector plates are in good
condition, with bolts fastened and no rust
observed.
Timber beam is found sagged at MT8
4) Like most of colonial buildings in Hong Kong,

timber rafters supporting the clay tiles are thin
and rectangular in shape. There are signs of
some poor workmanship on previous re-
roofing works: mortar is found between tiles
and rafters, resulting capillary action and
consequent timber saturation. Several timber
rafters are found fractured.
The maintenance responsibility for the structure of the
building belongs to the Landlord (Government Property
Agency, GPA). It is recommended that HKMMS to
Fractured timber rafter
further liaise with GPA and their maintenance agent,
Architectural Services Department to review the
condition of roof structural members and roof covering.
Re-roofing of the Main Building may be necessary if the
defective roof members are to be replaced. A timber
species test will be necessary to understand the material
and strength of the roof member. This analysis should be
carried out prior to any repair works.
Mortar found on timber rafters

6.3 Timber staircases (Internal)

Timber staircases connecting B/F, G/F, and 1/F are
constructed in timber. The staircases are generally in
good condition. Through visual inspection, no sign of
distress in the timber members is observed. There is no
visual evidence of structural cracks, sags, or distortion.
The timber newel posts and handrails stand straight and
are firmly connected to the supporting slab. The timber
balusters are fixed with nails to the stinger. Balusters at
steps 13, 17, 18, and 19 from G/F-1/F are found slightly
loose, however, the balusters are not structural elements
of the staircase and can therefore be simply re-fixed with
nails.
Overall appearance of timber staircase from G/F to 1/F
Steps 14, 21, and 28 at the landings are found slightly
loose. This may relate to loose spacer/ blocking
underneath. We recommend to carefully lift up the
steps, inspect the spacer/ blocking and carry out
necessary repair if any.
The staircase from G/F to 1/F has decorative lath and
plaster ceiling lining with fretwork inlays below its
stringers. The staircase from G/F to B/F has partition wall
which conceals its structure and as such its internal
structure has not been inspected. Since there is no
evidence of distress observed on the timber staircases it
is proposed not to disturb the historic building fabric to
inspect its internal structure from below.
6.4 Joinery
The most common issue found with regards to joinery is
defective paint. In a lot of areas the defect is simply wear
and tear rather than other inherent problems. Where
paintwork is in poor condition it is recommended to
repaint such areas within this FAS project. Areas where
paint decoration is in fair condition, are not proposed to
be repainted within this FAS project, however, we
recommend the Museum to repaint these elements
within a period of 5 years, or when there is a future
refurbishment/ redecoration project. Paint wear and tear observed on timber doors
6.5 Timber Floor Decoration

All the timber floorboards throughout the buildings have
been painted in modern polyurethane (PU) varnish.
The PU varnish is very durable, but the appearance is
shiny and the wood grain can hardly be seen.
Instead, we recommend a hardwax oil varnish for timber
floorboards which can expose the natural grain of the
timber and suitable for a medium traffic environment
such as the museum. This is considered good
conservation practice.
Generally the timber floorboards are in good condition, Modern PU varnish on timber floorboards
therefore we suggest to retain the PU finish at this
moment and when it is worn off, consider to sand and

replace with hardwax oil.
The decoration to the staircase has worn off therefore
we propose to replace its decoration with hardwax oil
varnish within this FAS project.
6.6 Encaustic Floor Tiles

Encaustic floor tiles are laid in the verandahs and wet
areas to the Main Building. There are generally three
types of scenarios that requires attention:
1) Tiles/ cement repair patches are damage/ loose/

defective: remove cement patches, salvage existing
usable tiles, and supply new tiles to follow existing
pattern.
2) Local replacement of tiles in a different pattern: this
was carried out in the past. Usually they can be noted
by a trained eye upon careful observation. Our
suggestion is to retain these tiles as a demonstration of
past restoration.
Scenario 1: upper left and upper right
3) Large scale of modern replacement that diminishing
the heritage value: remove existing tiles and supply new Scenario 2: bottom left
tiles to follow historic pattern.
Scenario 3: bottom right
6.7 Cracks on brick wall/ plastered wall/ ceiling

Any unintended (not designed) gaps which have
developed on the walls are referred to as “cracks”.
Cracks are symptoms of the building’s movement or
distortion as it reacts to changes to the load paths.
There are a number of cracks identified in the Main
Building. Some of them are old cracks, which have
existed in the building for over five years before the piling
works at 4A-4P Seymour Road in 2018. During said
piling works, some new cracks have developed, and
some old cracks have extended whilst some other old
cracks have not extended. (refer to Appendix B1 of
Structural Survey Report for details) It is likely that the
cracks originally developed due to ground subsidence
and heave due to volume changes in clay soils. They Crack observed on Basement Floor
were exacerbated due to vibrations caused by the piling.
Crack stitching is generally recommended to repair the
cracks in order that the load paths through the building
can be re-established. It is a masonry repair technique
that reconnects and reinforces cracked wall. According
to the substrate and condition of the cracks, the
following approaches are recommended:
For structural or surface cracks on painted brick wall, it is
recommended to carry out brick stitching, which includes
carefully raking out existing mortar joints, inserting
stainless steel bars into mortar joints, and then repointing

with lime mortar. Local brick indented replacement will
be carried out to replace any fractured bricks.
For cracks on plastered walls, if the cracks are suspected
to be structural cracks, it is recommended to remove the
plaster to examine the condition of the substrate, and
allow for brick stitching and local indented replacement,
followed by re-plastering and decoration. If the affected
area includes a cornice, the section of cornice shall be
carefully renewed and reinstated after repairs.
Specifically for crack ref. 1F-51, which has developed
behind a timber cabinet within the office in a brick wall,
the crack is deep and possibly extends to the other side
of the wall, which can be seen in the lab, ref. 1F-37. The Crack observed on First Floor
cabinet is not historic, therefore it can be removed and
discarded, so that the wall can be opened up for
inspection and repair. The white glazed tiles on the other
side of the wall shall also be carefully removed so that
the wall can be opened up for inspection and repair. This
would involve opening up from the floor level to
approximate 3m high.
For hairline cracks, or cracks developed between
different materials, they are generally to be left in situ.
6.8 Redundant Ductwork in Basement Floor

There is an air duct located within rooms B12, B11, B14,
B16, and B17 for mechanical ventilation. The Museum
One large crack is observed within room 109 on first floor, ref 1F-51
has confirmed that the air duct has not been in operation
for some years now, and is considered redundant. The
air duct is made from modern materials, namely,
galvanised mild steel. It is not considered as historically
significant. Cracks are observed around some of the
structural openings where the duct pass through walls.
These cracks may originate from the installation, or from
some later movement in the ductwork.
We support the proposal to remove the redundant
ductwork so that the space within those rooms can be
restored and better utilised. As long as the works are
carried out with due care, it is expected the removal
works will not induce any negative impact to the
monument building. HKMMS has confirmed that they are
willing to remove the redundant ductwork at their own
expense. After its removal, temporary support within the Air duct in room B16
opening should be in provided. It is proposed under FAS
to carry out brick repairs where necessary to damaged
brickwork and then tooth in brickwork to brick up the
opening using matching bricks and lime mortar to
reinstate the brick walls to their original configurations.

6.9 External Drainage and Water Ingress to

Basement Floor of Main Building
Read conjunction with Appendix A1 for related drawings
regarding drainage rectification works.
A summary of the Hong Kong Museum of Medical
Sciences Drainage System Inspection Report carried out
by MLP Engineering dated 9 January 2020 is as follows:
There are above ground and below ground stormwater
systems within the site.
For above ground stormwater system, surface channels
collecting surface run-off as well as water from
revetment walls ref. 11SW-A/R94, 11SW-A/R87 are
discharged to outlets 1, 2, and 3. Occasional flooding is Water unable to retreat at manhole S1
reported in outlet 3. It is likely that water coming from
the revetment walls carries muddy water and debris to
this outlet, so it is consequently blocked after heavy
rainfall.
The below ground stormwater system is malfunctioning.
Alteration works have been carried out around manhole
S2 in the past. Such manhole is now unable to be found.
Therefore, the CCTV survey cannot be conducted to S2
due to the missing manhole, nor can any routine
maintenance works be carried out.
Manhole S1, (i.e. outlet 4 to the below ground system)
is not functioning at all and it is beyond repair. There is
no connection pipe to external drainage found due to
previous variation of drainage route outside and damage
Water backflows to gully trap G1
of existing pipe. Such manhole S1 is also blocked by mud.
Any water accumulated at the downstream of S2 is
unable to discharge through S1, i.e. outlet 4, therefore
the water backflows to G1, gully trap near the southeast
elevation of the Main Building and overflows to the
ground. The lowest floor of the basement has a semi-
basement structure, during heavy rain, water ingress is
reported within rooms B13, B15, B16 due to water
lateral penetration.
No issue was found on the foul water system on site
during the inspection.
A further survey was conducted in November 2020 to
verify the condition of the manhole S1. The findings and
conclusions are:
5) Based on the actual site inspection, the Water lateral penetration reported in June 2017
structure of stormwater manhole S1 and its
disconnecting trap have been damaged, so it is
impossible to inspect and find its outgoing
pipeline connection with CCTV from S1.
6) However, the CCTV survey reviewed adjacent
DSD's public storm manholes and foul
manholes at Tank Lane. No connection pipe
from stormwater manhole S1 could be
observed at the adjacent manholes. Neither
any substandard connection (i.e. Direct

connection to public pipe without manhole)

could be observed by means of CCTV survey.
7) Stormwater manhole S2 was not found on site.
8) No incoming pipe from S2 was found at
manhole S1, however, when pouring water at
gully G1, leakage water appeared entering
manhole S1 from the brickwork joints.
9) It was found that the disconnecting trap at the
bottom of stormwater manhole S1 was
significantly damaged.
10) The structure of stormwater manhole S1 was
significantly damaged with substantial quantity
of damaged bricks observed.
Missing manhole S2 at the garden

To resolve the outgoing drainage of manhole S1, ArchSD
arranged a site inspection on 28 September 2022, and
prepared a drainage improvement proposal. Since trial
pits were required to verify the buildability of such • Risk on the excavation.
drainage improvement proposal, a Section 6 application The proposed excavation is based on limited
was made to AMO. S6 Approval was then obtained on information we obtained from HKMMS for the
27 February 2023, and the trial pits were undertaken on underground services. GPR will only be carried
27 March 2023. Following the trial pits, ArchSD out during the early construction stage. If during
confirmed the above-mentioned drainage improvement excavation, there are obstructions in the
proposal will not damage the footing of boundary wall. ground, the cost to manage these (i.e.
ArchSD’s drainage improvement proposal is enclosed in diversion) are borne by the applicant (HKMMS)
Appendix F. Further joint inspection with ArchSD, CHO, and may not be reimbursable.
HKMMS, and Purcell was arranged on 7 September
2023, ArchSD confirmed that an outgoing connection • Risk on condition of below-ground brick wall.
will be undertaken by ArchSD and/or DSD, through Once the brickwork is exposed, any issues with
either a connection immediately outside the rear gate, or the condition will need to be managed by other
through the above-mentioned drainage proposal department as maintenance of the external
enclosed in Appendix F. façade is not under FAS scope. There may be
considerable delay to the works if another
A proposal for installation of sub-soil drainage and geo- department needs to be involved.
drains to the basement floor on the southwest and
southeast elevations was considered during the • The repair responsibility.
preparation of this conservation proposal. However, The basement waterproofing/ tanking of the
following the receipt of ArchSD’s drainage improvement Main Building is deemed as a part of the
proposal for manhole S1, and the revaluation of structure and external fabric of the building to
maintenance responsibility, the proposal was re-visited. allow the building working as intended. The
Several associated risks/ responsibility factors were maintenance responsibility for the structural
considered: repairs and external fabric shall be with the
11) Risk on the sub-soil drain with ArchSD’s latest Landlord (GPA and his maintenance agent
drainage improvement proposal. ArchSD).
The S4-S3-S2-S1 system carries rainwater from As the above-mentioned risks and responsibility factors,
offsite and the amount of water can be we recommend omitting the sub-soil drainage under the
significant during extreme weather. We FAS project. We further recommend that the Landlord
consider ArchSD’s drainage improvement and his maintenance agent (GPA/ ArchSD) considering
proposal as an interim solution with a single the sub-soil drain proposal during their periodic planned
outlet (outlet 2), and a shallow gradient channel maintenance project, to protect the building from lateral
on the north. These conditions would put the water penetration in the basement.
building into risks to install a sub-soil drain
connected to the winding drainage route. Risk Based on the above surveys, various works are
of blockage on the shallow gradient channel on recommended to rectify external drainage and water
the north should also be noted. ingress to the Basement Floor.

1) Any accumulated debris, vegetation, and leaves d. Size of the manhole (350 mm dia.)
in the existing channels, outlets, and catchpits does not allow entering for repair and
shall be cleaned regularly, this is a routine maintenance
maintenance responsibility of HKMMS.
The defects at manhole S1 is the root cause of
the mal-functioned external rainwater drainage
2) Any blocked weep holes shall be rodded. In this
system, therefore replacement of manhole S1
case, removal of vegetation is a routine
is vital to rectify the existing rainwater drainage
maintenance responsibility of HKMMS, and any
system on site. We consider that it is necessary
mud blockage shall be reported to CEDD for
to reconstruct the entire manhole for future
clearance.
use with a reasonably long period of operation.
It is proposed this work to be carried out within
3) Multiple cracks and fractures are found on
this FAS project.
underground pipes between manhole S3 to S2,
therefore it is proposed to renew the pipework 7) The reconstructed manhole S1 will then be
with new 100mm dia. cast iron pipe. Since the connected ArchSD’s drainage improvement
depth for excavation is shallow (<0.8m), no works.
additional planking shoring is required. Straight
cut excavation is proposed. This is to be carried 8) The descriptions of each section excavation
out within this FAS project. are as below:
4) S2 manhole cover cannot be visually found on a) Excavation for replacement of pipework

site. The location of the manhole cover S2 does from S3 to S2, and for locating/
need to be found by ground penetrating radar reconstructing S2 (Excavation Zone A):
and the cover renewed so that access is made
Approx. 20m (L) x 0.8m (W) x 0.8m (D)
available for future inspections and
area in the garden to be excavated. Since
maintenance. If such manhole S2 is eventually
the depth for excavation is shallow
found beyond repair, then reconstruction will
(<1.2m), no additional planking shoring is
be required. This is to be carried out within this
required. Straight cut excavation is
FAS project.
proposed.
5) CCTV survey is unable to reveal the condition b) Excavation for replacement of pipework
of pipework from S2 manhole to S1 manhole. from S2 to S1, reconstructing manhole S1
At this moment, CCTV cannot reveal further (Excavation Zone B):
the condition of pipework from S2 to S1 due Approx. 21m (L) x 1.2m (W) x 1-1.2m
to the fact that S2 cover is missing and incoming (D) area in the garden and pavement to
pipe at S1 is also missing. No further be excavated. Since the depth for
investigation can reveal anything until and after exaction is deeper than 1.2m, channel
site work excavation starts. This allows for the planking shoring is required.
worst scenario to replace the pipework from
S2 to S1 with new 150mm cast iron pipe, which c) Excavation for removal of branch pipe
is considered a prudent and sensible solution to from G1 (Excavation Zone C):
the site. Since the depth for excavation is Approx. 0.8m(L) x 0.8m(W) x 0.6m (D)
greater than 1.2m, channel planking shoring is area near the southeast elevation of the
required. This is to be carried out within this Main Building. Since the depth for
FAS project. excavation is shallow (<1.2m), no
additional planking shoring is required.
6) Stormwater manhole S1 will require Straight cut excavation is proposed.
reconstruction to the latest standard. This is Branch pipe to from G1 will be removed.
due to various reasons as follows: Any air conditioning condensation water
shall be discharged to a new surface
a. Serious structural damage is found channel directing it away from the Main
within S1 on brickwork Building, this is to be carried out within
b. The U-trap at the bottom of S1 is this FAS project.
found heavily damaged
c. Re-provision of incoming pipe from These works are proposed to be carried out
S2 to S1 may further damage existing within this FAS project.
manhole

6.10 Roof Drainage
Gutter to southwest elevation of the Main Building
Roof drainage system to Main Building
The roof drainage system the Main Building is shown on

the diagram above. Rainwater from the NE and SW
pitches of the roof discharge directly to their gutters. At
the central portion of the SW elevation, a pediment is
built, with the roof configuration altered with two side
valleys. Rainwater from the SE and NW pitches discharge
to their gutters, then to the flat roofs, together with
rainwater from the flat roof, it is connected to RWPs on
NE and SW elevations respectively.
Two major issues are found on the roof drainage. The Recurrent water ingress in room 110, photo taken in May 2023.
first one being the roof gutters to the SW pitch are laid
within eaves moulded cornices. Water stains have been
observed at various locations internally at 1/F adjacent to
the gutter ends, indicating the water overflows from the
gutter. The overflow of water is caused by splashing over
from the valley, insufficient capacity of the gutter, and/or
blockage of the gutter outlet.
A larger gutter has been installed on the Main Building
within project Planned Maintenance 2019/20 – Re-
roofing, Repair of Brickworks at Annex Block and
Miscellaneous Repair Works at Old Pathological Institute.
A further inspection was carried out in 2023 since
recurrent water ingress was reported in rooms 103 and
110 high level near the valley. We propose to overhaul
existing drainage channel at the roof valley of the Roof valley and gutter junction, photo taken in May 2023.
southwest elevation at two locations through a water
test, allowing for renewal of flashing, applying
waterproofing slurry to the valley, and applying sealant
between the gutter and valley to alleviate the risk of
water ingress to the building.
There are a number of mature trees within the site.
Falling leaves into the gutters is a recurring maintenance
issue. It is recommended to install leaf guards in all the
gutters on the Main Building. The leaf guard has a
stainless-steel wire core and plastic bristles that allows
rainwater water to flow freely whist acting as a barrier

for leaves and debris, stopping it from clogging up in the

gutter channel. Leaves and twigs either bounce off the
top of the brush or will naturally degrade.
The installation of a leaf guard will minimise the risk of
gutter and rainwater pipe blockage which may cause
damage to the historic fabric, such as wall saturation and
water ingress. It will also reduce the requirement of high-
level access for frequent removal of leaves from gutters.
This is deemed to be beneficial to both the building and
its operators.
The leaf guard is fixed with a plastic clip to the existing
gutter and is fully reversible. Installation of leaf guards is
proposed within the FAS project. Outlet of gutter/ flat roof
The second issue is the risk of blockage at the flat roof

outlet, and consequent overflowing. As mentioned
above, the rainwater from SW and NW pitches
discharge to their gutters, then to the flat roofs, and
through a 75mm dia. branch pipe connected to the main
100 x 100mm RWPs.
As calculated, in theory the capacity of the 75mm dia.
branch pipe would be sufficient to discharge rainwater
from the 15m2 pitch roof and 16m2 flat roof on a black
rainstorm situation (70mm/hr precipitation rate) in an
ideal situation (no blockage or debris at any gutter and
outlet, 100% capacity of the pipe). However, in reality,
the existing outlets on the flat roof are very vulnerable A typical leaf guard installation
to leaf blockage due to the mature trees on site. Once
the outlets are blocked, there is a severe risk of water
overflowing through the dormer windows into the
timber roof void, potentially damaging the timber roof
structure and lath and plaster ceilings. It is recommended
the Museum inspect and clear the outlets regularly,
especially before and after typhoons and rainstorms. It is
recently reported by HKMMS that there are existing
overflow spouts for the flat roofs. Therefore, no further
overflow spouts are proposed.
6.11 Dampness and Ventilation

A few concepts related to dampness and ventilation shall
be clarified to understand the situations discussed in
different locations.
Condensation – when vapour molecules hit another
vapour molecule, or some other molecule, or a surface,
it will lose a little of its energy. The more vapour
molecules there are in the air, the more likely they will
hit; and the colder the surface, the more energy the
vapour molecules will lose when hit. Eventually it may be
left with too little energy to break away again in the next
hit, and the vapour molecules become “condensed”.
Dew point – is the temperature to which air must be A typical situation in summer when the ambient is hot and humid, the
cooled to become saturated with water vapour. When ambient temperature and relative humidity are on the left, the
further cooled, the airborne water vapour will condense temperature and relative humidity under air conditioning on the right. If
to form liquid water (condensation). the surface temperature of an object is below 17 °C, condensation will
Condensation will only appear on the surface that the appear on the object (such as item faced the unit directly).
surface temperature is lower than the dew point. On low
permeability surfaces, such glass, water may condense on

the surface, on high permeability surfaces, such as paper,
water may saturate the substrate.
Evaporation – when a condensed water molecule
absorbs heat energy from the surface, and from the air,
it may gain enough energy to break free the surface, that
is to “evaporate”. Air moving across the surface has a
great deal of energy, so can very easily carry water
molecules from the surface.
There are two major ways to control the problem of
condensation: control the humidity and provide air
movement. The effects of commonly used electrical
appliances are outlined below:
A typical situation in spring when the ambient is warm and extremely
Internal fans – will not change the ambient temperature humid, the ambient temperature and relative humidity are on the left, the
nor the relative humidity nor the dew point but will temperature and relative humidity under air conditioning on the right. If
provide air movement, which will promote evaporation the surface temperature of an object is below 12 °C, condensation will
and thereby reduce condensation. appear on the object (such as item faced the unit directly).
External fans – will exchange the internal and external
air and will provide air movement. It could bring warm,
humid air from outside to inside (Spring and Summer) or
bring cold, wet air from outside to inside (wet Winter),
or bring cold, dry air from outside to inside (Autumn and
dry Winter). The first two scenarios are best to avoid.
Air conditioning – will lower the ambient temperature
and dew point, likely to lower the relative humidity and,
will provide a certain air movement, but it will result in
local cold surfaces with a surface temperature lower than
dew point where facing the unit directly.
Dehumidifiers – will slightly increase the ambient
temperature and will significantly lower the relative
humidity and dew point.
A typical situation in spring when the ambient is warm and extremely
Radiator or fan heaters – will significantly increase the humid, the ambient temperature and relative humidity are on the left, the
ambient temperature and will significantly lower the temperature and relative humidity under dehumidifier on the right. As the
relative humidity and dew point. dew point is significantly lower, condensation is unlikely to appear.
Electric dry box – will control the relative humidity
inside the box to a specific value whilst not changing the
temperature.
The different the situations in different rooms within the
Main Building are discussed below with
recommendations made:
1) Pump room (room B13)
The pump room is located at the northeast corner
of the Main Building. It has a semi-basement
structure. It is equipped with louvres on one door
opening and one window opening. The window
opening has a louvred shutter on the external side
and a casement window on the internal side. A fan
has been equipped at this opening. Therefore, the
room is always not airtight.
During site inspections, this room was generally
found damp, excessive mould was observed on the

water tank, indicating it had a low temperature

resulting in condensation. Spalling concrete was
observed on the ceiling. Approximately 35 nos.
bricks were found deteriorated and friable.
The main cause for dampness in this room is its sub-
basement in nature, which can be improved with
rectification of site-wide drain pipe and manholes.
The room is not airtight, and ventilation is poor.
Insufficient ventilation escalates the damp condition.
It is recommended to operate the external fan
during dry weather (such as a sunny noon time).
This is a routine maintenance responsibility of
HKMMS.
External view of the pump room B13 and archive room B15, B16
2) Archive rooms (room B15 and B16)

The archive rooms are located at the southeast
corner of the Main Building. Similar to the pump
room, it has a semi-basement structure. The archive
rooms are equipped with both air conditioning and
dehumidifiers. During site inspections, these rooms
were generally found dry as controlled by
dehumidifiers. However, water ingress was reported
after rainstorms due to water lateral penetration.
Signs of water ingress are also observed on the walls.
The main cause of dampness in this room is its sub-
basement in nature, which can be improved with
rectification of site-wide drain pipe and manholes, as
well as replastering by a lime base plaster and Internal view of the pump room B13
painting by a breathable paint.
These rooms are airtight and a controlled
environment can be achieved. As the artefacts and
paper archives are vulnerable to condensation, it is
recommended that air conditioning should be
operated in summer with a suitable temperature set
(not too cold). Air-movement from the AC should
not blow on the artefacts and paper archive directly.
In wet Winters and humid Springs, dehumidifier
should be operated rather than air conditioning to
achieve required relative humidity. In dry autumn
and winter, natural ventilation can be considered
during noon of the day.
Important artefacts and paper archives can be
stored in electric dry box, so the humidity is strictly Signs of previous water ingress to the archive rooms B15, B16
controlled.

3) Storeroom (room B17)

This storeroom is located at the south of the Main
Building. It has a basement structure. On its SW and
SE walls, damp and defective plaster has been
observed.
The main cause for dampness in this room is its sub-
basement in nature with water later penetrating. It
can be improved by removing the existing plaster,
then replastering with a lime base plaster with a
breathable paint. This would improve the condition
although some on-going maintenance may be
required.
This room together with adjacent room B01A are
airtight, it is recommended to monitor the Damp and defective plaster to storeroom B17
temperature and relative humidity in this room and
control the relative humidity with dehumidifier
when necessary.
4) Rooms to southwest eaves (rooms 101, 103,

110, 111)
These rooms are located adjacent to the eaves
gutters on the southwest elevation. As discussed in
section 6.10, the cause for water ingress to these
rooms are likely from when the gutters overflow.
When storm water overflows from the gutter, it
saturates walls behind the gutter, consequently this
creates damp patches internally.
The gutters have been recently enlarged, it is further
recommended to overhaul the junction between
the valley and gutter, and install leave guards to Damp patches observed on room 101
reduce the chance of gutter blockage and water
overflowing, which has been outlined in section
6.10.
5) Timber boarded ceilings, fretwork on 1/F and

roof
The roof is constructed in double-layer pan-and-roll
tiles. The tiles are porous, there are gaps between
the tiles between eaves and tiles themselves.
Therefore, the roof void is not airtight. Moisture can
enter the roof void through these gaps. Also, in
sunny days, the roof void can become over-heated.
Moisture ingress would not have been a large issue
when it was originally built because the interiors
were not air-conditioned. There is timber fretwork
on the 1/F ceiling providing air infiltration into the
roof void from the 1/F. With the introduction of air
conditioning, the gallery and office spaces on 1/F are Wet rot is observed on fretwork in room 106.
airconditioned, but the roof void is not
airconditioned, resulting in a significant temperature
difference between the two spaces in the Summer
months. As warm air can contain significantly more
moisture, when it meets cool air in the below room,

its capacity for moisture drops, thus condensation
can be formed at the adjacent surface where they
meet, i.e. at the fretwork. During the inspections,
fretwork suspected to be damaged by dry and/or
wet rot can be found in room 106.
To reduce condensation and consequently the risk
of timber decay, there are three major approaches:
improve the airtightness to the roof, reduce the
temperature difference between the two spaces,
and provide air movement to areas vulnerable to
condensation.
Improving airtightness is generally to stop external
moisture air entering the roof void. This can be
achieved by adding a vapour barrier above the
timber rafters when re-roofing. It should also be
noted that the dormer window to the roof void
must be shut after use, to avoid water and moisture
ingress.
Reducing the temperature difference between the
two spaces can be done by lowering the
temperature at the roof void, this can be achieved
by the addition of insulation under the roof tiles
when re-roofing. It can also be achieved by
management approach in the gallery and office, i.e.
not switching the air conditioning too cold. (25.5oC
as recommended by the government should be
Suspected water marks observed on purlin (upper photo), crack tile
considered.)
observed (lower photo)
Providing air movement, as discussed above, is to
evaporate any condensation by means of a fan. It
should be noted that this is not to provide
ventilation to the roof void from external air. This
can be achieved by setting up a fan in the gallery to
give air moving to the fretwork, so as to evaporate
condensation thus stopping it forming on the
fretwork.
Regarding the condition within the roof void, during
site inspections, the roof was generally found dry.
No wet rot or fungus was found. However, there
were a number of cracked tiles observed at the
bottom layer and suspected water marks observed
on purlins. It is unclear whether there is
condensation on the purlins or water seepage from
the roof. We suggest to further monitor using
electronic sensors the temperature and relative
humidity in the roof void, near the fretwork, and to
the room directly below during summer of 2020, so
that a combination of methods can be applied to
reduce the risk of condensation and its consequent
damage. The sensors should be capable of storing
data over an extended period of time, which can be
downloaded and analysed.
The summary of recommendations with their ease
of execution from easiest to hardest is as below:

i) Manage the air conditioning temperature so they

are not too cold
ii) Use dehumidifiers within roof void (already
equipped)
iii) Installation of fans below and above ceiling to
provide air moving
iv) addition of vapour barrier and insulation during
re-roofing
6.12 Roof Access for Maintenance

The roof void of the Main Building can now be accessed
from a section of cat ladder within Room 102 on the first
floor. The room has timber boarded ceiling and its height
from floor level is approximately 4m. The cat ladder does
not extend to the ground level and therefore requires a
further ladder to access the cat ladder. The existing trap
door (access hatch) was installed in a recent renovation
and is bulky and difficult to handle. It is recommended to
install a new permanent retractable proprietary ladder
for roof access to meets modern standard.
With regards to the access within the roof void, currently
there are plywood walkways loosely laid on timber
ceiling joints. Building services including sprinkler pipes,
air conditioning chiller pipes, electric conduits and
trunkings are scattered around the roof void which is
likely indicative of the services being added at different
times, as opposed to a single coordinated installation.
To improve the roof access within the roof void, we have
explored means to install a permanent steel catwalk from
the ceiling hatch to both sides of the dormer windows.
A schematic sketch for the steel catwalk is on the right.
This schematic proposal was submitted to CHO in
advance and to request their comments with regards to
whether the proposal would be supported under this Existing roof void plywood walkway (top photo)
FAS scheme. CHO responded as follows: Existing roof void services installation (bottom photo)
We (CHO) understand the safety concern for

improving the maintenance access to the roof, however
the proposed maintenance catwalk shall not be
supported under FAS since the works scope are too
extensive that, it is possible to be A&A works with BD
submission. Please explore other means under FAS
such as minor improvement works to the cat ladder for
proper maintenance access.
In view of such comments from CHO, we recommend
to renew of existing plywood walkways in the roof void
on a like-for-like basis. Plywood walkways are to be a
minimum 600mm wide x 15mm thick, with colour
contrast edges. The plywood panels will be laid within
GMS angle frame that is fixed to the ceiling joists.
Explored proposal permanent catwalk
New GMS handrails on the wall are to be installed.
Handrail to be 40mm dia. fixed to the wall at 900mm
c/c.

Annex Building
6.13 Timber Roof

One king post timber truss within the Annex collapsed
on the morning of 18 August 2018. Site inspection shows
the end of the truss embedded into brickwork was
saturated and seriously damaged by termites. Termite
eradication and control in the Annex Building is now
being managed by the Architectural Services
Department, whilst the said timber truss has been
reinstated within project Planned Maintenance 2019/20
– Re-roofing, Repair of Brickworks at Annex Block and
Miscellaneous Repair Works at Old Pathological Institute.
Annex Roof recently re-covered
6.14 Cracks on brick wall/ plastered wall
Cracks within the Annex Building rear toilet are
significant structural cracks that should be managed by
the Landlord Government Property Agency and their
maintenance agent Architectural Services Department.
This would need further coordination with the Civil
Engineering and Development Department as the root
cause of the cracks is associated with the movement
from the revetment wall. Such cracks will be repaired to
maintain its structural stability.
6.15 Dampness and Ventilation

The Annex Building is a single storey building, it has
double-layer pan-and-roll tile roofing. There are
ventilation grilles in the walls. Therefore, the rooms in Fungus developed on the wall within Annex Building due to poor air
the Annex Building are not airtight. Three general movement
approaches are recommended to reduce the chance of
condensation in the rooms, which are reducing
temperature difference between inside and outside,
reducing relative humidity internally, and provide air
moving. They are detailed as follows:
During Spring when air temperature rises rapidly but
walls and roof are still cold, the air is usually humid, and
condensation can be found on walls and timber roof.
During such weather, air conditioning should not be
used. Instead, dehumidifier and/ or internal fan can be
used to reduce humidity and provide air moving
internally. If natural ventilation is preferred, doors and
windows should only open when it is relatively dry, i.e. at
noon.
During Summer, it is recommended not to set the air Ventilation slots are on the façade of the Annex Building.
conditioning temperature too cold, instead, 25.5oC as
recommended by the government should be
considered. Internal air moving will be beneficial for
reducing condensation, i.e. setting up ceiling fan. Doors
and windows should be kept shut when air conditioning
is in operation.
Air moving can reduce the risk of wet rot and fungus. As
mentioned above, this can be achieved by internal ceiling

fan. The building has original ventilation slots on the

façade. External fans can be installed behind iron gratings
to provide mechanical ventilation. However, these fans
should only be operated in dry weather.
6.16 Roof Drainage

The roof gutters to Annex Building are laid within eaves
moulded cornices. There are a number of mature trees
within the site. Falling leaves into the gutter is a recurring
maintenance issue. It is recommended to install leaf
guards on all the gutters of the Annex Building. This is
similar to the Main Building and installation of leaf guards
is proposed in FAS project.
Annex Roof gutter
6.17 Roof Access for Maintenance
The Annex Building is a single storey building. Its roof has
exposed timber structure. Inspection to roof structure
can be made from the ground floor.
Regarding the maintenance for the roof, the main
maintenance task is cleaning of roof gutter.
To the courtyard, the work is of simple nature and does
not involve working at height for more than 2 metres
above the ground, a suitable light-duty working platform
is recommended. Permanent cat-ladder is not
recommended in this case as it cannot access to all
locations of the gutter.
To the northeast and northwest elevations, the
pavement is in the slope, cleaning of the gutter requires
working at height for more than 2 meters. Light-duty
working platform is not recommended at this location.
The proposed leaf guard can minimise the maintenance
tasks. However, if excessive leaves are observed, it is
recommended the museum to engage a cleaning
contractor to remove leaves at these two elevations.
It is recommended that suitable light-duty working
platform is to be purchased by HKMMS.

External Area
6.18 Timber staircases (External)
There is a timber staircase with a flight of 13 steps laid
on existing granite steps connecting Caine Lane and the
Museum. There is evidence of old termite infestation on
the timber stair components and termite bait box has
been installed. Four steps are found substantially
damaged by rot. The badly rotten four steps will be
replaced on a like-for-like basis, and other minor decay
will be repaired by epoxy resin. Then the entire staircase
will be redecorated. Colour contrast anti-slip nosing tape
is to be installed following the redecoration.
Damaged treads on the external timber staircase
6.19 Cracks on the Sloping Feature

During the site inspection, there are significant cracks
observed on the sloping feature facing southeast
elevation of the Main Building. These are considered
significant structural cracks and outside the ambit of FAS.
We recommend HKMMS to liaise with the Landlord
Government Property Agency and their maintenance
agent Architectural Services Department. Prompt repair
works are recommended prior to FAS works so that it
will not pose a risk on the excavation in adjacent area.
Cracks are observed on the sloping feature facing southeast elevation of

the Main Building

7.0 SCOPE OF WORKS WITHIN THIS FAS PROJECT
Refer to separate Form 2a’s.

8.0 BIBLIOGRAPHY
Website of Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences, https://www.hkmms.org.hk/en/home/
Old Pathological Institute, Caine Lane, Sheung Wan, https://www.amo.gov.hk/en/monuments_41.php
Hongkong. Report of the Director of Public Works, for the Year 1905
English Heritage, Practical Building Conservation, Building Environment

HKMMS Conservation Proposal 20230908

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HONG KONG MUSEUM OF MEDICAL SCIENCES - MAIN BUILDING & ANNEX

(R8) 8 September 2023

22/F, 169 Electric Road, North Point, Hong Kong

+852 2164 4088

Undertaking any unauthorised act in relation to this work may result in

Purcell® is the trading name of Purcell Asia Pacific Limited.

Revision Record Date

08.09.23 JC 019-239069-DOC-013.docm Page 2 of 104

2.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 7

3.0 CHARACTER DEFINING ELEMENTS (INTERIOR) 9

4.0 CONDITION SURVEY 21

5.0 CONSERVATION PRINCIPLES 82

6.0 CONSERVATION APPROACHES 85

7.0 SCOPE OF WORKS WITHIN THIS FAS PROJECT 104

8.0 BIBLIOGRAPHY 105

Drawings for Drainage Rectification Works

(Dated September 2021)

Appendix B1 Crack Observations and Repair Proposal (Dated 30 November 2021)

08.09.23 JC 019-239069-DOC-013.docm Page 3 of 104

monkeys, fowls, rats, mice, guinea pigs and rabbits. There is

The whole of the compounds are laid with lime concrete

1.3 Ownership and Responsibility for Maintenance

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2.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

08.09.23 JC 019-239069-DOC-013.docm Page 7 of 104

08.09.23 JC 019-239069-DOC-013.docm Page 8 of 104

3.0 CHARACTER DEFINING ELEMENTS (INTERIOR)

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Item Description Significance Photo Reference Notes

MB-2 Timber floorboards in High

MB-3 Encaustic tiles with High

MB-4 Encaustic tiles with High

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Item Description Significance Photo Reference Notes

MB-6 Fireplace with green High

MB-7 Fireplace with red High

MB-8 Fireplace hearth at Moderate The original

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Item Description Significance Photo Reference Notes

MB-9 White glazed wall tiles Moderate

MB-10 Timber picture rails at Moderate

MB-11 Original furniture fit- High

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Item Description Significance Photo Reference Notes

MB-13 Lath and plaster Exceptional

MB-14 Timber boarded High From site

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Item Description Significance Photo Reference Notes

MB-16 Timber staircase from Moderate

MB-17 Timber staircase from Exceptional

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Item Description Significance Photo Reference Notes

MB-18 Goods lift within the High Historically used

MB-19 Timber door with High

08.09.23 JC 019-239069-DOC-013.docm Page 15 of 104

Item Description Significance Photo Reference Notes

MB-21 Timber doors with High

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Item Description Significance Photo Reference Notes

MB-23 Timber louvred Moderate Likely to be a

MB-24 Framed ledged and Moderate

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Item Description Significance Photo Reference Notes