The Multi-trade integrated Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MiMEP) approach enhances construction efficiency, quality, and safety through off-site prefabrication and modular installation, making it ideal for Hong Kong’s high-density and fast-paced development needs. This year, the EMSD further introduced the MiMEP three-in-one solution, which integrates MiMEP, open Building Information Modelling (open BIM) standards, and the Building Information Modelling–Asset Management (BIM-AM) system. This approach was applied to 24 repair, maintenance, alteration and addition (RMAA) pilot projects, achieving remarkable results. Building on our hands-on experience, we presented a proposal titled “Era of Digitalisation and Sustainability: open BIM with Asset Management for MiMEP Projects towards New Quality Productive Forces”, which earned the Grand Award in the Technology Solution Category at the Hong Kong openBIM/openGIS Awards 2025.
This three-in-one solution combines MiMEP with BIM, significantly enhancing project efficiency and management effectiveness. During the planning phase, the engineering team uses BIM to create a site environment model and simulate transportation, lifting, and assembly processes of prefabricated modules. At handover, the BIM model contains complete E&M asset information to help clients digitise asset management. Additionally, using the open BIM data format ensures smooth communication and data sharing among the engineering teams throughout construction, handover, and maintenance. This approach eliminates the need for clients to invest in multiple software licence and related training costs, helping to lower the entry barrier for using BIM.
The EMSD has implemented 24 pilot projects, including installation and replacement of various E&M systems at hospitals, sports centres, and government buildings, earning high praise from clients. Data shows MiMEP can reduce on-site installation time by about 60%, making it especially suitable for venues like hospitals that operate continuously, as it minimises disruption and enhances site safety. Additionally, the E&M equipment is pre-assembled in the factory, significantly reducing on-site assembly work and enhancing construction site safety. Combining MiMEP with BIM reduces construction errors, improves project quality, and extends equipment lifespan. The BIM-AM system helps clients clearly understand asset conditions, facilitating maintenance and lowering operational costs.
Furthermore, this three-in-one solution will promote wider adoption of BIM, encouraging more small and medium contractors to use BIM-AM and open BIM technologies, driving digital transformation in the industry and fostering the development of new quality productive forces.
