Abu Dhabi’s comprehensive fire safety campaign yields significant results

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Featured News ArchivesSafety

Rigorous Inspection and Enforcement

The Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority has conducted a thorough field survey of fire safety compliance, resulting in over 21,000 warnings issued to non-compliant buildings.

Between May and October, the authority inspected 10,753 residential and commercial buildings across the emirate, including Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra.

The inspections led to the issuance of 21,271 warnings for buildings failing to meet fire safety requirements​​​​.

Regional breakdown of non-compliance in Abu Dhabi

In terms of geographical distribution, the majority of the warnings were issued in Abu Dhabi city, amounting to 16,053 notices.

The Al Ain region and Al Dhafra followed with 4,212 and 1,006 notices respectively.

This extensive initiative underscores the authority’s commitment to upholding stringent fire safety standards across the emirate​​​​.

Emphasising safety and prevention standards

Brig Gen Salem Al Dhaheri, acting director general of the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, highlighted the pivotal role of these inspections in enhancing safety and fire prevention standards in the emirate.

The authority’s efforts are continuous and focused on raising the level of safety and fire prevention throughout Abu Dhabi​​​​.

Strategic Partnerships and Criteria for Compliance

The initiative’s success is attributed to the concerted efforts and teamwork with strategic partners.

The criteria for buildings and commercial facilities include the presence of fire detectors and alarm devices, as well as maintenance contracts with companies approved by the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority.

This collaborative approach has significantly contributed to raising the safety and sustainability index in the emirate​​.

Focus on community protection

The Director of the Inspection and Survey Branch at the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, Captain Khaled Ahmed Al Wahidi, emphasised the aim of enhancing community protection through assessing and analysing safety risks.

The field survey initiative revealed several violations and malpractices in buildings, affecting the general safety of residents and visitors​​.

A call for compliance

The authority has urged owners of buildings and facilities to ensure compliance with safety and prevention measures, highlighting the importance of maintaining fire systems and contracts with approved maintenance companies.

This proactive stance demonstrates the authority’s commitment to providing the best services to ensure the necessary prevention and safety measures in various buildings and installations​​.

Related Fire Safety Campaign in Wedding Venues

In a related initiative, the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority has launched a campaign focusing on fire safety compliance in wedding venues.

This campaign assesses the availability of firefighting equipment and first aid facilities in these venues, emphasizing the importance of training venue workers on evacuation procedures and dealing with fire incidents​​.

IFSJ Comment

The extensive fire safety campaign in Abu Dhabi, encompassing a wide range of buildings and facilities, marks a significant step in enhancing fire safety standards in the region.

The meticulous inspection process and the issuance of a substantial number of warnings demonstrate the authority’s rigorous approach to ensuring compliance.

This proactive stance is crucial, as it not only addresses current safety concerns but also sets a precedent for future safety measures.

The focus on collaborative efforts with strategic partners and the emphasis on community protection highlight a holistic approach to fire safety.

Additionally, the extension of this campaign to specific sectors such as wedding venues reflects a tailored strategy to address unique risks in different settings.

This comprehensive approach to fire safety is indicative of Abu Dhabi’s commitment to ensuring the well-being and safety of its residents and visitors, contributing to a safer and more secure living environment.

Abu Dhabi campaign enhances fire safety at wedding venues

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Breaking NewsMiddle East - Featured News ArchivesSafety

Abu Dhabi has initiated a safety campaign aimed at wedding halls to promote compliance with fire safety and prevention standards.

The move, reported by Gulf News, is set to elevate community safety standards through improved adherence to safety procedures and the provision of necessary firefighting systems and first aid facilities.

Fire safety compliance in focus for wedding venues

The Civil Defence Authority in Abu Dhabi has begun an assertive campaign to check the compliance of wedding halls and event planning companies with fire safety and public prevention requirements.

This campaign involves an assessment of the availability of firefighting equipment and first aid in these venues.

Colonel Dr Faisal Hassan Al Qahtani, the acting director of the Civil Protection Sector, said that the main goal of this campaign is to verify the percentage of wedding halls’ compliance with safety and fire prevention standards.

Civil Defence Authority to conduct periodic inspections

In his statement reported by Gulf News, Al Qahtani highlighted the measures for ensuring safety: “The Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority attaches great importance to the safety of our society.”

He confirmed the authority’s commitment to regular monitoring and strict enforcement, indicating planned periodic inspections and consequences for non-compliant facilities.

Al Qahtani further emphasised the preventive strategies essential for maintaining safety during events, noting the necessity of not using highly flammable materials in the wedding hall, not exceeding the maximum capacity, and opening all emergency exits during occasions.

He also mentioned the importance of training for venue workers on evacuation procedures and dealing with fire incidents.

For more information on the campaign, you can read the Gulf News article here.

IFSJ Comment

The Civil Defence Authority’s proactive approach to fire safety at wedding halls in Abu Dhabi reflects a growing awareness of the risks associated with large public gatherings.

By focusing on compliance, training, and the availability of firefighting systems, the authority is taking steps to prevent fire incidents, which can lead to loss of life and property.

Training venue workers in fire response and ensuring open emergency exits align with global safety best practices.

The scrutiny on the use of materials and venue capacity also demonstrates a commitment to not just react to emergencies but to create an environment where risks are minimally present.

Iraq wedding fire caused by negligence, says government investigation

by Featured NewsMENA - Featured NewsMiddle East - Featured News Archives

A recent fire in a northern Iraqi wedding hall, resulting in the tragic death of over 100 individuals, has been attributed to “gross negligence” and an absence of proper safety precautions, according to a government probe.

The details of the investigation were disclosed during a news conference on Sunday by interior minister Abdul Amir al-Shammari.

He stated that the venue’s proprietor and three additional employees permitted an excessive 900 attendees into a space intended for a mere 400.

“The fire was accidental and unintentional and occurred due to gross negligence”, were the words from the official findings.

“Utilising combustible decorations contributed to the fire’s rapid acceleration, converting the hall into a veritable inferno”, added Shammari.

Concerns about the Iraq wedding fire: Were safety measures ignored?

The conflagration trapped numerous guests inside, with emergency services finding it challenging to access the site due to limited and undersized exit routes.

Shammari confirmed that at least 150 individuals sustained injuries during the incident which occurred in the Christian town of Hamdaniya, also referred to as Qaraqosh.

The final death toll was determined to be 107, with recommendations from the investigative committee suggesting financial aid for the families affected.

Furthermore, the report also advocated for potential legal actions against specific local authorities.

In response to the tragic event, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani paid a visit to two local medical facilities where the injured were being treated, vowing to bring the culprits to justice.

About the Hamdaniya (Qaraqosh) region

Hamdaniya, popularly known as Qaraqosh, is a Christian town in northern Iraq. It has a rich history and has faced challenges, including occupation by the Islamic State.

IFSJ Comment

The devastating incident in Iraq highlights the absolute necessity for stringent fire safety measures in public venues worldwide.

When venues overlook or bypass essential precautions, the results can be catastrophic.

The scale of this tragedy underscores the urgency of ensuring safety regulations are met and regularly reviewed.

It is crucial for communities globally to learn from such events to prevent their recurrence.

Abu Dhabi Police initiative ‘Safe Summer’ aims to mitigate car fires

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Featured News ArchivesSafety

Safety measures help cut vehicle fire risk

The Abu Dhabi Police have taken a significant step towards vehicle safety by launching a campaign titled “Safe Summer”, aimed at reducing the risk of car fires.

This comes as an urgent plea to drivers and vehicle owners to adhere to recommended preventative maintenance schedules, and to keep a fire extinguisher and first aid kit in their vehicles.

Importance of regular maintenance in preventing car fires

Brigadier General Khamis Rashid Al Kaabi, Director of the Criminal Evidence Department, has emphasised the crucial role of regular vehicle maintenance and preventive measures, particularly during the summer months when temperatures are high.

Hazards of direct sunlight on car interiors

Direct sunlight can pose a real danger to various objects and materials within vehicles, causing potential ignition.

Items such as lighters, perfumes, mobile phones, chargers, and other electronic devices can all contribute to the risk of a car fire when exposed to prolonged sunlight.

Understanding the causes of car fires

Major Dr. Eng. Adel Nassib Al-Saqri, Head of the Fire Department at the Criminal Evidence Department, pointed out that neglecting safety and prevention measures is often the cause of most car fires.

He made a reminder that vehicles inherently contain combustible components including liquid fuel, oils, and internal elements like plastic and rubber.

Regular checks and maintenance under the supervision of a qualified technician, coupled with the presence of a fire extinguisher and first aid kit in the vehicle, can significantly enhance safety measures and provide protection for the driver, passengers, and other road users.

IFSJ Comment

The proactive initiative by the Abu Dhabi Police underscores the importance of vehicular safety and the preventative measures that can be taken to mitigate the risk of car fires, particularly during the summer months.

Sharing such information can raise awareness among vehicle owners globally, encouraging adherence to safety guidelines and potentially saving lives.

Strict penalties for non-compliance with fire safety regulations in Abu Dhabi

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Featured News ArchivesSafety

Heavy fines introduced to reinforce fire safety

In an effort to reinforce fire safety compliance in Abu Dhabi, entities failing to meet the requisite standards are set to face a hefty fine of Dh10,000.

The announcement has been made public recently by the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority (ADCDA) according to a report from Gulf News.

Legal background to the fire safety measures

This move has its legal basis in the UAE Cabinet Resolution No.24 of 2012. It underpins the organisation of Civil Defence services within the country.

It specifically targets those without a Civil Defence licence or a certificate indicating compliance with fire safety and prevention requirements.

Abu Dhabi’s commitment to fire safety

In a bid to reduce fire hazards in public buildings and facilities, Abu Dhabi had initiated an emirate-wide initiative in May.

The Field Survey Initiative, launched by ADCDA, is aimed at safeguarding the communities and properties across the industrial, commercial and service sectors in Abu Dhabi.

ADCDA is dispatching inspection teams under this initiative. Their mission is to ensure that safety and prevention measures are upheld.

They will particularly assess the presence and maintenance of smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, evacuation emergency signage, and other related equipment.

The decision to increase inspections comes just before the summer months, when temperatures in the UAE tend to increase, escalating fire hazards as a result.

IFSJ Comment

Fire safety is a global concern and the stringent measures being adopted by Abu Dhabi sets a precedence which other regions may look to follow.

This proactive approach of incorporating heavy fines reinforces the importance of fire safety, but it could potentially deter violations and increase overall safety standards.

Dubai firefighter single-handedly rescues 24 people from residential fire

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First Corporal Ghadeer Al Kaabi: a Dubai hero in action

First Corporal Ghadeer Al Kaabi, a firefighter from Dubai Civil Defense, has been commended saved the lives of 24 individuals from a residential fire in Bur Dubai.

As detailed in The National, Al Kaabi was in the vicinity when he spotted flames engulfing a residence.

He promptly alerted the control room and ventured into the burning property, aiming to secure the inhabitants’ safety.

Fire quickly spreading to vehicles and adjacent structures

Al Kaabi reported that the fire had reached two vehicles, a tent, and the house’s annex, yet observed no activity within the residence.

The main entryway was shut and no occupants were seen exiting the building.

Upon entering the house, he found families within the villa unaware of the threatening blaze.

Al Kaabi managed to lead them to safety and administered first aid to one injured resident until the arrival of further emergency services.

His quote: “What I did was my professional and humanitarian duty as a fireman. The department ensures we are well trained to be ready for emergencies.”

Dubai Police have yet to reveal the timing of the fire and subsequent rescue operation.

Recognition from Dubai authorities for exemplary courage

In a Wednesday ceremony, high-ranking officers from Dubai Police honoured Al Kaabi’s act of bravery.

Major General Khalil Al Mansouri, the assistant commander-in-chief of criminal investigations affairs, lauded Al Kaabi’s courageous actions, stating: “Al Kaabi is a hero as he did not hesitate to deal with the fire and rescue people’s lives. He took the risk and went inside despite the flames and smoke.”

IFSJ Comment

This incident serves as an inspirational example for firefighters worldwide, reinforcing the importance of comprehensive training and preparedness for emergency situations.

It also underscores the vital role of firefighters in community safety and disaster response, making it a noteworthy event for our readers to learn from and appreciate.

Abu Dhabi acts against fire hazards with new public safety initiative

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Featured News ArchivesSafety

In a proactive move to enhance public safety, Abu Dhabi has rolled out a comprehensive initiative to mitigate fire hazards in its public edifices and facilities.

The Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority (ADCDA) is driving the Field Survey Initiative, a project that spans across the industrial, commercial, and service sectors of the emirate. The initiative underscores the ADCDA’s commitment to safeguarding communities and properties in Abu Dhabi from potential fire risks.

A key component of this project involves the ADCDA dispatching inspection teams to assess the adherence to safety and prevention measures in buildings throughout the emirate. These teams are tasked with verifying the presence and proper maintenance of smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, emergency evacuation signage, and other critical fire prevention equipment and tools.

This concerted safety effort precedes the peak summer months in the UAE, a period characterized by soaring temperatures that tend to heighten fire hazards. The launch of the initiative signifies Abu Dhabi’s resolve to pre-emptively tackle potential fire risks, thereby ensuring the safety and security of its public spaces and inhabitants.

UL Solutions expands footprint in Middle East with Riyadh office

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Featured News ArchivesSafety

UL Solutions, a global leader in the field of applied safety science, has announced the establishment of a new office in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This strategic expansion is in response to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic transformation plan and is set to bolster UL Solutions’ Middle Eastern presence, complementing existing offices in Dammam, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi.

This new facility will support the safe, sustainable, and secure commercialisation of technologies, furthering Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation initiatives and objectives. It will offer fire safety, security, and sustainability services to its customers, and provide access to proven science, testing, critical data, and software products.

Dareen Ayyad, country manager of UL Solutions in Saudi Arabia and the leader in the Riyadh office, expressed enthusiasm for this expansion. “This move is an expression of our commitment to serving our in-region customers and supporting the region’s major developments and projects,” Ayyad stated. “With this expansion, we aim to provide local access to our world-class safety science expertise, aiding efforts to transform the economy.”

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan, launched in 2016, focuses on three central pillars: positioning Saudi Arabia at the heart of the Middle East, creating a diverse and sustainable economy, and being a significant driver of international trade, connecting Africa, Asia, and Europe. The plan is also geared towards reducing Saudi Arabia’s oil dependence by diversifying its economy.

In recent years, Saudi Arabia has made substantial strides towards realising Vision 2030, with key initiatives including an $18 billion data center strategy and the development of mega and giga projects such as NEOM, a smart city, and Amaala and the Red Sea Project, ultra-luxury and sustainable tourist destinations. The country is also focusing on renewable energy, with the development of over 58 GW of solar and wind power and plans to phase out fossil fuel-based power stations.

Hamid Syed, vice president and general manager of UL Solutions in the Middle East, highlighted the significant need to address fire safety, cybersecurity, and sustainability amidst these transformations. “Our new presence in Riyadh will allow us to continue to be a trusted science-based safety, security, and sustainability partner, helping to enable the Kingdom’s economic evolution,” he said.

UL Solutions has also established a partnership with Dammam-based GCC Labs to advance fire safety in the Middle East. They are working collaboratively in Saudi Arabia to assess the effects of extreme environmental conditions on photovoltaic modules, enhancing the understanding of future solar project efficiencies.

The company has also formed agreements with the Saudi Arabian Standards Organisation (SASO) to promote the use of UL Standards for safety and has received accreditation from SASO to perform tests related to energy efficiency functionality for street, road, and tunnel lighting products.

“Beyond strengthening our existing relationships with GCC Labs, STC, and SASO, we aim to fortify key local partnerships to support the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals,” Syed added.

James Glosen, counselor for Commercial Affairs at the U.S. Embassy in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, welcomed this development and recognised the important role U.S. firms like UL Solutions play in Saudi Arabia’s growing and diversifying economy.

About UL Solutions

UL Solutions is a global leader in applied safety science, offering testing, inspection, certification services, software products, and advisory offerings to customers in over 100 countries. The company aids its customers in navigating complex global markets and supply chains, and supports their sustainable growth into the future. UL Solutions is dedicated to advancing safety, security, and sustainability, transforming these challenges into opportunities for its customers.

Cundall establishes new office in Riyadh expanding Middle Eastern operations

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Engineering consultancy firm, Cundall, announced the opening of a new office in Riyadh – Cundall Arabia. The move signals Cundall’s commitment to expanding its Middle Eastern operations and building its global practice. Cundall celebrated the occasion with a reception held at the British Embassy in Riyadh, attended by local business leaders, Foreign Office representatives, and Cundall staff and clients from across the region.

Cundall has been working with clients in the Middle East for more than 15 years, including many projects in Saudi Arabia. The new Riyadh office will serve as the company’s hub for in-country work and will strengthen its ability to serve Saudi clients. The expansion will also complement Cundall’s existing offices in Dubai and Doha, and increase its influence on projects throughout the region.

Cundall is known for delivering innovative and sustainable solutions worldwide and is currently working on several high-profile projects throughout Saudi Arabia. These projects include entertainment, master planning, and the Red Sea Global’s Dark Sky Initiative.

Richard Stratton, Partner & Managing Director EMENA, commented on the expansion, saying that Saudi Arabia is undergoing unprecedented positive transformation, and work on many of the transformational projects announced in recent years will begin to come to fruition in 2023. Stratton also highlighted the Saudi Vision 2030’s focus on sustainability, which aligns with Cundall’s Net Zero Carbon 2030 commitments.

Carole O’Neil, Global Managing Partner at Cundall, stated that the expansion into Saudi Arabia is a significant milestone for the company, and it is looking forward to building new relationships in the region while continuing to have a positive impact on every project it touches.

The new Riyadh office is Cundall’s 24th global office, and the company plans to open another office in the Philippines in 2023. The company remains dedicated to achieving sustainable design throughout the built environment, and the expansion into Saudi Arabia is a testament to its unwavering commitment to its clients and supporting social and economic growth in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

Fire claims the lives of 16 in Al Ras area of Dubai

by Featured NewsMiddle East - Featured News Archives

A tragic fire incident occurred at a residential building in the Al Ras area of Dubai, leading to 16 deaths and 9 injuries on Saturday 15 April.

The Dubai Civil Defense team responded immediately to contain the blaze.

Relevant authorities are conducting a comprehensive investigation to provide a detailed a report on the causes of the accident.

The Dubai Civil Defense team worked tirelessly to rescue those affected by the fire, with assistance from the Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality, and the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services.

Unfortunately, 16 people lost their lives in the incident, with 9 others suffering injuries. The injured were promptly taken to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.

In the wake of the fire, Dubai’s General Directorate of Civil Defence has emphasised the significance of property owners and occupants adhering to security and safety regulations and guidelines to prevent accidents and ensure the protection of lives.

What happened at the Al Ras fire?

On Saturday, a fire broke out in a residential building in Dubai.

The Dubai Civil Defence Operations Room was notified of the fire at 12:35 pm.

Within six minutes of being notified, a team from the Dubai Civil Defence headquarters arrived at the site at 12:41 pm.

The first responders immediately started both evacuation and firefighting operations.

Teams from the Port Saeed Fire Station and the Hamriyah Fire Station provided backup to the firefighting operations.

The large-sized fire broke out in an apartment on the fourth floor of the building.

The fire was brought under control at 2:42 pm and cooling operations began.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the lack of compliance with building security and safety requirements caused the fire.

Concerned authorities are conducting a comprehensive investigation to provide a detailed report on the causes of the accident.

The site of the fire has been transferred to the relevant authorities for further procedures.

IFSJ Comment

International Fire & Safety Journal was deeply saddened to learn of the tragic incident and extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those affected by the fire.