CROSS-AUS addresses structural safety with latest newsletter

by ConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Structural Safety: Engineering New Zealand strengthens registration rules for engineers

Engineering New Zealand (ENZ) has released a consultation document proposing updates to the Chartered Professional Engineer Rules.

These updates aim to enhance the quality and accountability of engineers by introducing new registration classes, revising the assessment process, and bolstering the complaints and disciplinary system.

According to CROSS-AUS, these changes reflect an ongoing commitment to improving engineering and structural safety standards in Australasia.

Additionally, the Structural Engineering Society of New Zealand (SESOC) has issued an interim advisory document addressing the implications of the National Seismic Hazard Model.

SESOC is also working on further guidance related to low-damage design principles, contributing to seismic safety in the region.

CROSS-AUS highlights the role of human factors in engineering safety

CROSS-AUS Director Gordon Hughes emphasised the importance of learning from human errors in engineering.

He noted that while engineers focus heavily on technical training and Continuing Professional Development, the role of human factors is often overlooked.

Hughes said: “As engineers, we can build on this by sharing experiences so that we can learn from other people’s mistakes, and they can learn from ours.”

He further encouraged the use of CROSS Safety Reports as a tool to confidentially share and learn from engineering errors, promoting improved structural safety.

Importance of robust load paths in structural design

The CROSS-AUS newsletter includes insights on the significance of robust load paths in engineering.

Two safety reports featured in the issue explore issues related to portal frames, underscoring the necessity of thorough inspection and maintenance.

A webinar presented by ENZ, Load Path Analysis for General Practice Engineers, led by UK-based engineer Mark Moppett, reiterated the critical criteria for selecting a load path: strength, stiffness, and stability.

Moppett also discussed the safe theorem of lower bound plasticity, which ensures structural safety when equilibrium is maintained, and stresses remain within yield limits.

Moppett explained: “The structure will only collapse when it has exhausted all possible paths, giving engineers the liberty to choose and direct load paths.”

Safety Reports provide critical insights for engineers

The newsletter highlights the value of CROSS Safety Reports in addressing common engineering challenges.

These reports offer practical examples of safety risks and solutions, enabling engineers to apply these lessons to their projects.

CROSS-AUS aims to encourage proactive measures in structural safety by fostering an environment where engineers can share their experiences without fear of professional repercussions.

CROSS-AUS newsletter discusses structural safety in Australasia: Summary

The 12th CROSS-AUS newsletter, published on 28 November 2024, provides updates on engineering safety initiatives in Australasia.

Engineering New Zealand has proposed updates to registration rules, including new classes and improved accountability measures.

SESOC released guidance on seismic safety, focusing on the National Seismic Hazard Model and low-damage design.

CROSS-AUS Director Gordon Hughes highlighted the importance of addressing human factors in engineering and encouraged using CROSS Safety Reports for knowledge sharing.

The newsletter also emphasised the role of robust load paths in structural design, featuring insights from ENZ’s webinar by Mark Moppett.

Engineers are encouraged to apply lessons from these safety reports to enhance structural integrity and safety practices.

CROSS and CHIRP issue alert on bridge strikes by large vessels

by ConstructionFeatured NewsPorts & Maritime

Safety alert issued on bridge strikes by large vessels: CROSS and CHIRP

CROSS and CHIRP have issued a joint Safety Alert following the March 2024 collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.

The alert provides recommendations to mitigate the risks of large vessels striking bridges.

The alert highlights guidance for bridge designers, port authorities, and vessel operators.

It addresses how risks have evolved due to changes in maritime transport and climate.

While the probability of bridge strikes remains low, the consequences can include fatalities, infrastructure collapse, economic losses, and environmental damage.

Historical examples of bridge strikes

The alert outlines significant historical bridge strikes.

Between 1960 and 2015, there were 35 major bridge collapses globally, resulting in 342 deaths.

Examples include the Sunshine Skyway Bridge collapse in Florida in 1980 and the River Volga disaster in Russia in 1983, where 172 people lost their lives.

Recent incidents include the January 2024 damage to the Pont de Sully Bridge in Paris and the March 2024 Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse.

These incidents demonstrate the ongoing risks posed by evolving vessel sizes and environmental changes.

Bridge vulnerabilities and design considerations

Bridge vulnerabilities depend on structural design and maritime conditions.

Risks include superstructure impacts from increasing vessel sizes and substructure damage during collisions.

The alert recommends periodic risk assessments and integrating protective features such as sacrificial structures or impact-absorbing islands.

Guidance from standards like the Eurocodes and American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) emphasises updating risk assessments and design approaches to align with evolving maritime challenges.

Recommendations for risk mitigation

The alert provides detailed recommendations for key stakeholders.

Bridge designers should conduct risk analyses, consider climate impacts, and implement protective measures.

Owners and operators are urged to perform regular risk reviews and liaise with port authorities.

Ship operators should ensure vessel maintenance and conduct scenario planning.

Port authorities are advised to adapt to changing vessel sizes and implement traffic management strategies to prevent collisions.

Autonomous ships and predictive technologies are highlighted as emerging tools for safety management.

CROSS and CHIRP issue alert on bridge strikes by large vessels: Summary

CROSS and CHIRP have issued a safety alert focusing on the risks of large vessels colliding with bridges, following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore in March 2024.

Historical examples highlight the severe consequences of such events, including fatalities and infrastructure damage.

The alert recommends periodic risk assessments, updated design standards, and implementing protective features to mitigate risks.

Guidance is provided for bridge designers, owners, and ship operators, with a focus on adapting to evolving maritime challenges and ensuring collaborative planning.

UK manufacturers urged to adopt updated railway fire safety standards

by Featured NewsIndustrialSafety

Updated fire safety standards for railway products

Manufacturers in the UK producing railway seating, floors, and wall linings are being encouraged to adopt the updated BS EN 45545-2:2020 fire safety standards.

These standards, titled ‘Railway applications. Fire protection on railway vehicles – Requirements for fire behaviour of materials and components’, became effective in August 2023 in the UK.

Although not yet integrated into the National Technical Specification Notice (NTSN), the standards ensure compliance with modern fire safety requirements.

The EU has set a January 1, 2026, deadline for transitioning from the older BS EN 45545-2:2013+A1:2015 standard.

However, the UK has not confirmed when the updated standards will become mandatory.

The role of Warringtonfire in supporting compliance

Warringtonfire, part of Element Materials Technology, has urged UK manufacturers to begin testing against the updated 2020 standards.

Dennis Tuyogon, Lead Analytical Chemist at Warringtonfire, said: “By adopting the updated 2020 standard, you will fully meet current UK and EU requirements, making the transition straightforward and ensuring compliance with the latest regulatory expectations.”

Tuyogon highlighted the risks of delaying compliance, including potential retesting costs and non-compliance with future mandates.

He added: “Transitioning now ensures products deliver safe and effective fire resistance and compliance, while also providing a competitive advantage.”

Industry engagement through seminars

To raise awareness, Warringtonfire hosted its first Rail Seminar on October 15, 2024.

The event gathered train builders, trade associations, and rail engineering professionals to discuss the updated standard.

Quarterly seminars are planned, with the next scheduled for February 2025.

These events aim to provide industry stakeholders with insights into the updated regulations and their implications.

The seminars reflect Warringtonfire’s commitment to supporting the rail industry in achieving fire safety compliance and aligning with modern standards.

Technical advancements in BS EN 45545-2:2020

The 2020 revision of BS EN 45545-2 includes updates to testing methodologies, reflecting lessons learned and industry advancements.

While the changes are not extensive, they aim to align safety requirements with current industry knowledge.

Warringtonfire provides comprehensive testing services to meet these updated requirements, including flammability, smoke density, and toxicity testing.

Specific tests include ISO 5658-2 for flame spread and ISO 5660-1 for cone calorimeter analysis.

UK rail product manufacturers encouraged to comply with BS EN 45545-2:2020: Summary

Manufacturers in the UK are urged to adopt the updated BS EN 45545-2:2020 fire safety standards for railway products.

Warringtonfire emphasises the benefits of early compliance to meet UK and EU requirements, avoid retesting costs, and maintain competitiveness.

The updated standards incorporate improved testing methodologies and align with modern safety expectations.

Through its seminars and testing services, Warringtonfire is actively supporting the industry in achieving compliance.

Hong Kong URA launches free home safety programme for elderly and low-income families

by Featured NewsSafety
The HSICP ceremony is officiated by Miss Alice Mak, Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs (centre); Ir Wai Chi-sing, Managing Director of the URA (3rd from the left); Mr Edward Yu, District Officer (Yau Tsim Mong) (3rd from the right); Mr Paul Wong, District Officer (Sham Shui Po) (2nd from the left); Mr David Leung, District Officer (Central and Western) (2nd from the right); Mr Denny Ho, District Officer (Kwun Tong) (1st from the left); and Mr Kenneth Wu, Assistant District Officer (Kowloon City) (1st from the right).

URA partners with community groups to improve home safety

The Urban Renewal Authority (URA) has launched the Home Safety Improvement Community Programme (HSICP) in collaboration with various community organisations across several districts in Hong Kong.

As reported by the Urban Renewal Authority, the programme aims to provide essential home safety and fire protection facilities at no cost to the elderly and underprivileged families, particularly those living in sub-divided units and ethnic minorities.

The programme will focus on Kowloon City, Central and Western District, Kwun Tong, Sham Shui Po, and Yau Tsim Mong.

A ceremony was held on 25 September 2024 at the URA’s Building Rehabilitation Resource Centre in To Kwa Wan to mark the launch of the HSICP.

The event was officiated by government officials and community leaders, including the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Miss Alice Mak, and Managing Director of the URA Ir Wai Chi-sing.

HSICP offers tailored safety solutions for underprivileged families

The HSICP aims to improve residential safety by offering tailored home safety and fire protection solutions.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ir Wai Chi-sing, Managing Director of the URA, said: “Seeking to enhance safety in consideration of diverse demographic profiles and living conditions within older districts, the HSICP provides tailored home safety improvement solutions and advances residential and fire protection among beneficiary families.”

The programme is a result of collaboration between various stakeholders, including government departments, professional bodies, and community organisations.

The URA plans to enhance the living conditions of elderly residents and low-income families living in old districts through this initiative.

HSICP follows the success of previous programmes

Since 2018, the URA has implemented the Home Repair Services Community Programme (HRSCP) in the same districts.

This initiative involved home repair ambassadors and volunteer workers offering free services such as appliance inspections, power socket replacements, and minor repairs for elderly and low-income families.

To date, more than 5,000 households have benefited from this programme.

Building on the experience gained from the HRSCP, the HSICP was introduced in July 2024 to expand the scope of support.

The new programme now includes Kwun Tong and aims to reach more families in need of safety improvements in old buildings.

One-year programme targets improved safety and fire protection

The HSICP will run for a year and is expected to benefit over 1,000 households across five districts.

In addition to free home repairs, the programme offers safety assessments, installation of essential fire protection facilities, and education on safety awareness.

The service extends to both individual units and, where feasible, the common areas of buildings.

The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers and the Institution of Fire Engineers are contributing professional advice, while local district services and community care teams will support the programme.

The URA aims to create a safer living environment for Hong Kong’s underprivileged families by leveraging this collaborative effort.

Hong Kong URA launches free home safety programme for elderly and low-income families: Summary

The Urban Renewal Authority (URA) has introduced the Home Safety Improvement Community Programme (HSICP) to provide free home safety and fire protection facilities to elderly and underprivileged families in several Hong Kong districts.

The programme is part of a broader effort to improve safety for those living in older buildings, particularly after several fires and accidents were reported in 2023.

The HSICP builds on the success of the URA’s previous Home Repair Services Community Programme (HRSCP) and aims to expand the scope of support to benefit over 1,000 households over the next year.

The programme is supported by community organisations, professional engineers, and government departments.

Survitec Suitxchange removes compliance burdens and reduces port delays

by Health and SafetyPorts & MaritimeProductsSafety

Global Survival Technology solutions provider Survitec has introduced a new rental and exchange service to ensure ship operators always have fully serviced and certified immersion suits onboard.

SuitXChange offers two immersion suits from its world-leading brands, Hansen Protection and Crewsaver. It is a fast exchange service designed to remove the administrative, financial, and operational challenges ship managers face awaiting the return of serviced suits during scheduled port visits.

The development, which provides a more timely and sustainable solution for immersion suit servicing, follows the success of Survitec’s RaftXChange service. When Survitec introduced the world’s first global Liferaft exchange programme in 2008, the industry quickly saw the benefits of quick port turnaround, controlled compliance, and lower capital costs.

Metkel Yohannes, Survitec’s Director of Service and Rental Solutions, said: “By opting for a rental and exchange agreement, no capital investment is required. The prices are fixed, meaning our customers will never be hit with unforeseen costs, allowing them to plan and budget more accurately”.

Under Survitec’s new SuitXChange programme, immersion suits due for certification can be replaced with newly serviced, fully certified suits of the same type, which are ready for exchange as soon as the vessel enters port, supporting customer calls for shorter port stays. The logistics required to service suits are reduced, so less transportation is needed, resulting in a more environmentally sustainable operation. The service facilitates overall cost reduction and better management through fixed annual charges. At the same time, Survitec’s team of highly skilled technicians ensure immersion suits are always compliant with the regulations.

Survitec implemented an eight-month SuitXChange pilot programme to gain insight from its customers. The research helped the company tailor the service to ship managers’ requirements before launching to the market.

“Ship managers often tell us they struggle to get their suits serviced in time, having to rent or buy additional suits to prevent port delays. And then had to pay for those suits being serviced to be shipped to their next location for pickup. With SuitXChange, ship managers no longer need to worry about ensuring they have compliant suits and in-date certificates. We take care of it all”, said Survitec’s Product Category Manager, Alex Scollins.

Ship managers who have already signed a Survitec rental agreement say SuitXChange negates any immersion suit capital expenditure and can reduce the time their vessel spends in port. SuitXChange also eliminates the administrative burden of due-date management, tracking, managing, and ensuring that all associated tasks are completed. Under the agreement, Survitec will fulfil all related tasks.

Since different immersion suits have different service intervals, Survitec offers its Crewsaver Endurance immersion suit for a six-year rental period, with exchanges taking place every three years.

The enhanced SuitXChange+ program offers the premium Hansen Protection SeaEco+ immersion suit, certified for use without a lifejacket.

Both offer fully tested, certified, and SOLAS-compliant immersion suits for a fixed annual rental fee. It is a mandatory requirement under SOLAS regulation III/32 (as amended by resolution MSC.152(78) that all persons on board merchant ships have an immersion suit regularly serviced and certified to prolong the in-water life of each crew member following ship abandonment ship.

“We offer a straightforward administration approach with a key account manager backed up by an experienced global customer service team. We facilitate all the preparation and logistics of the immersion suit exchange, delivering peace of mind.

“We have the largest, most comprehensive service network worldwide, so we can guarantee that immersion suits are replaced with newly serviced, fully certified suits of the same type at all the major maritime hubs,” said Yohannes.

Fireworks ban implemented by Otago LAC in high-risk areas

by Featured NewsSafety

Ban on private fireworks in Otago high-risk areas

As reported by Fire and Emergency New Zealand, a ban on the private use of fireworks in several high-risk areas across Otago has been enacted.

The decision was influenced by the Otago Local Advisory Committee (LAC), formed four years ago to guide Fire and Emergency New Zealand on community risks.

The restrictions were introduced in late 2022 following concerns from residents about the dangers posed by fireworks in areas such as the Queenstown Red Zone, Mount Iron, and Albert Town Recreation Reserve.

Otago LAC chair Megan McPherson explained: “Basically, the social licence was running out with fireworks.”

She added that the Committee’s input played a key role in the decision, stating: “We pushed for this ban and Fire and Emergency took it seriously. It shows we have influence.”

Committee’s focus on ongoing community risks

Beyond fireworks, the Otago LAC continues to address other important community safety issues.

The Committee is currently drafting its latest Insights Report, which is expected to focus on sustainable volunteerism and the impacts of climate change.

These topics were highlighted in their previous report and remain a priority for the Committee.

“We have the networks into our communities,” said deputy chair Helen Algar.

She emphasised the Committee’s role in identifying specific vulnerabilities, particularly in culturally diverse, isolated, and climate-vulnerable communities.

The LAC aims to support the Fire and Emergency District team while maintaining a clear focus on its role.

Collaboration with Fire and Emergency New Zealand

The Otago LAC values its strong relationship with Fire and Emergency New Zealand, especially with the Community Risk Management team.

Cross-agency collaboration has been vital in enabling the Committee to contribute meaningfully to community safety efforts.

Algar noted: “Fire and Emergency has provided us with quite a unique mechanism to provide influence and insights back to the Board.”

She added that the effectiveness of this collaboration depends on how the Committee chooses to exercise its influence.

The future of the Otago LAC

The Otago LAC continues to evolve, with plans to further explore community risks and provide insights into emerging challenges.

Their partnership with Fire and Emergency New Zealand remains a key part of their strategy, ensuring that community concerns are addressed and that risks are managed effectively.

“The LAC aims to support the District team by identifying trends and key insights while keeping in our lane,” Algar said.

Fireworks ban implemented by Otago LAC in high-risk areas: summary

The Otago Local Advisory Committee (LAC) played a key role in enacting a ban on private fireworks in high-risk areas of Otago, including the Queenstown Red Zone and Mount Iron.

This decision, implemented in late 2022, was influenced by community concerns and supported by Fire and Emergency New Zealand.

The Committee is now focusing on other key risks such as sustainable volunteerism and climate change, continuing its collaboration with Fire and Emergency.

The Otago LAC aims to provide valuable insights on community vulnerabilities and remains dedicated to supporting the safety of the region’s residents.

UK construction sector faces challenges over non-certified PIR board use on ductwork says TICA

by ConstructionFeatured NewsPassiveSafety

Concerns over non-certified PIR board usage

Members of the Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA) have raised concerns over the ongoing use of non-certified polyisocyanurate (PIR) board on ductwork in the UK, seven years after the Grenfell Tower tragedy and two years following the introduction of the Building Safety Act 2022.

TICA had initially highlighted issues with the use of non-certified PIR on internally located ductwork in November 2022.

However, the trade body is now also bringing attention to the growing problem of non-certified PIR boards being used on externally located ductwork.

TICA members report that they are losing contracts to competitors using these cheaper alternatives, which is exacerbated by the fragmented nature of the construction sector, making it challenging to maintain a consistent “golden thread” of safety data.

The role of manufacturers in ensuring product certification

Chris Ridge, TICA’s Technical Director, has emphasised the critical role manufacturers play in ensuring the correct application of PIR products.

He stated: “There are several manufacturers of PIR board operating in the UK and TICA is aware of only one PIR product that is certified for specific use with externally located ductwork.

“We have witnessed the use of many different PIR brands and clearly many of these have not been certified for the required application.”

Ridge further stressed the importance of clarity from manufacturers regarding the appropriate use of their products: “Manufacturers need to be clear and unambiguous about where their product can and can’t be used.

The one manufacturer that has certified their PIR product for use with ductwork is very clear about the fact that its product is only suitable for externally located ductwork.”

Ambiguity in product certification

The ambiguity surrounding product certification is creating a risk that non-certified PIR products might be improperly used in applications for which they are not suited, such as internally located ductwork.

Ridge highlighted this issue, noting that the lack of clarity in product certification increases the chances of incorrect usage, which could have serious safety implications.

He emphasised the need for all parties in the supply chain, including manufacturers, distributors, and installers, to take responsibility for ensuring the correct products are used.

This includes clients who must ensure they hire competent specialists to insulate ductwork.

Responsibility within the supply chain

Ridge’s comments underscore the collective responsibility within the construction industry to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

He urged all stakeholders to be vigilant in their use of certified materials and to maintain transparency in their application: “Everyone in the supply chain must ensure that the correct products are being used.

“Manufacturers, distributors, and installers all have a responsibility.”

The continued use of non-certified PIR boards on ductwork, despite the risks and regulations in place, points to the need for stricter enforcement and clearer guidelines within the construction sector to prevent unsafe practices.

UK construction sector faces challenges over non-certified PIR board use on ductwork: Summary

The Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA) has reported ongoing issues with the use of non-certified polyisocyanurate (PIR) boards on ductwork in the UK.

This concern follows the Grenfell Tower tragedy and the introduction of the Building Safety Act 2022.

Despite regulations, non-certified PIR boards are still being used, particularly on externally located ductwork, due to competitive pressures and a fragmented construction sector.

TICA’s Technical Director, Chris Ridge, highlighted the importance of manufacturers clearly specifying the correct applications for their products and urged all supply chain members to ensure the use of certified materials to prevent safety risks.

South Korea considers new fire safety measures after EV explosion incident

by Featured NewsSafety

South Korea reacts to EV explosion incident

Management teams in office buildings and apartment complexes across South Korea are considering measures to address fire risks following an electric vehicle (EV) explosion.

As reported by The Business Times, the incident led to the evacuation of over 200 families.

An unplugged electric Mercedes-Benz sedan caught fire last Thursday (Aug 1) in an underground carpark at an apartment complex in Incheon, west of Seoul.

According to fire authorities, more than 700 residents were evacuated due to water and power outages, and the blaze damaged around 140 cars.

The Incheon Metropolitan City government reported that twenty-three people were hospitalised.

Several office buildings have now banned EVs from entering and parking, according to notices on social media.

Some apartment management committees are advising EV owners to exercise caution when charging their cars.

Public concerns and reactions

The incident has shaken the public in South Korea at a time when global EV sales growth is slowing.

Despite the higher frequency of combustion engine car fires, concerns about EV battery safety are rising.

Issues such as higher upfront costs and unreliable charging infrastructure further contribute to consumer hesitation.

Wayne Moon, a 37-year-old resident of Gyeonggi, expressed his concerns: “Honestly it’s quite frightening and this will surely be discussed during our regular resident meeting this month.

There’s a need for the country to overhaul everything from fire safety standards, legislation, and charging infrastructure to address the risk of EV fires.”

Mercedes-Benz Korea has stated that it will fully cooperate with authorities to investigate the cause of the fire but has declined to comment further.

Impact on EV purchases and social media response

Social media in Korea is abuzz with discussions about the safety of EV batteries, leading some individuals to reconsider their car purchases.

Users of a Tesla online community chat debated whether to cancel their orders.

One EV owner complained that a shipping company refused to transport his car to Jeju Island, while another reported that his office building had suspended the use of EV chargers.

According to a 2023 report from Korea’s National Fire Agency, the number of car fires has increased annually for both internal combustion engine vehicles and EVs since at least 2017.

EV fires are more challenging to extinguish due to the intense and prolonged burning of lithium-ion batteries.

Legislative response and proposed safety measures

Most South Koreans live in high-density apartments, with many charging stations located in underground garages.

Newly constructed apartments and buildings of a certain size are legally required to install EV chargers.

Following the recent incident, Song Eonseog, a lawmaker from the ruling party, has proposed revisions to the country’s Parking Lot Act to enhance safety and limit EV battery fires.

South Korea considers new fire safety measures after EV incident: Summary

Management teams in South Korea are exploring measures to mitigate fire risks after an EV explosion in Incheon led to the evacuation of over 200 families.

The incident, involving an unplugged electric Mercedes-Benz sedan, resulted in significant property damage and hospitalised twenty-three people.

Public concern about EV safety is rising, with social media debates and potential impacts on car purchases.

Legislative responses include proposed revisions to the Parking Lot Act to improve fire safety standards.

Dubai Civil Defense and PCFC sign memorandum to enhance safety protocols

by Breaking NewsMiddle East - Breaking News

Memorandum of understanding signed to boost cooperation in Dubai

The General Directorate of Dubai Civil Defence and the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation (PCFC) have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen safety norms and protocols in Dubai.

The MoU aims to boost cooperation, promote the exchange of expertise, and strengthen integration between government entities, Gulf News reported.

The agreement was signed by Major General Jamal bin Aded Al Muhairi, assistant director-general for resources and support services, and Nasser Al Neyadi, CEO of PCFC.

This collaboration is part of ongoing efforts to safeguard lives and property, bolster fire prevention and response, and enhance the safety and security of Dubai’s residents.

It aligns with the strategic goal of making Dubai one of the safest cities in the world.

Focus on enhancing safety and prevention measures

The MoU is expected to greatly enhance the roles of both parties in fostering beneficial partnerships and ensuring the provision of cutting-edge safety, protection, and prevention solutions in Dubai.

Maj Gen Al Muhairi emphasised that the agreement reflects the commitment of both the General Directorate of Civil Defence and the Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation to establish productive partnerships with strategic stakeholders in Dubai.

He noted: “This is a crucial step towards improving the quality of life for all residents and providing the latest safety solutions.”

Strategic initiatives for special economic zones

Al Neyadi highlighted that the MoU is essential for achieving the highest safety standards in the special economic zones and ports under the PCFC’s supervision.

This will further solidify Dubai’s status as one of the safest cities globally.

He said: “The Ports, Customs, and Free Zone Corporation, in collaboration with the General Directorate of Civil Defence in Dubai, aims to elevate safety levels in the emirate by engaging strategic partners to implement best practices and the latest technologies for a safer and more sustainable future.”

Commitment to innovation and collaboration

Both entities are confident that the partnership will lead to the development of innovative solutions. “We are confident that more innovative solutions can be developed together,” said Maj Gen Al Muhairi.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to leveraging the latest technologies and best practices in safety and prevention, ensuring that Dubai continues to lead in safety standards and quality of life.

NFPA and Saudi Electricity Company sign memorandum to promote fire and life safety

by Associations and OrganisationsFeatured NewsMiddle East - Breaking News

Saudi Electricity Company: Agreement to boost fire and life safety standards

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing fire and life safety standards across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The signing ceremony, held at SEC’s headquarters in Riyadh, was attended by key representatives from both organisations.

The MoU signifies a shared commitment to reducing the impact of fires and hazards through the exchange of information and knowledge, supported by awareness forums and conferences.

Focus on safety protocols and training

Engr. Saeed Al-Qahtani, Acting Executive Director, Fire Prevention & Fighting Sector at SEC, stated: “Partnering with NFPA allows us to align our safety protocols with global best practices.

“This agreement signifies our commitment to continuous improvement in fire and life safety, ensuring that we remain at the forefront of safety excellence in the energy sector and beyond.”

The initiative will use the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem as a model, aiming to establish extensive training and certification programs, fire research, and education for the public at the community level.

NFPA will provide comprehensive training programs and technical support to SEC personnel.

Commitment to safety in the GCC region

Eng. Dana Kamal, Director, International Business Development MENA at NFPA, commented: “NFPA is delighted to partner with Saudi Electricity Company in this important initiative to advance fire and electrical safety.

“Being aligned with the largest producer, transmitter, and distributor of electrical energy in the Middle East and North Africa highlights NFPA’s commitment to furthering safety in the Kingdom as well as the GCC region.

“We look forward to developing comprehensive plans based on the use of our codes and standards, trainings, certifications, and technical expertise.”

This partnership underscores NFPA’s dedication to improving safety measures and operational efficacy within Saudi Arabia’s electrical sector.

Support for SEC personnel

In addition to establishing training programs, NFPA will offer technical support to ensure SEC personnel are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills.

This collaborative effort aims to uphold the highest safety standards within the Kingdom’s electrical sector, contributing to the overall safety of the community.

The MoU is a testament to both organisations’ dedication to enhancing fire and life safety through rigorous standards and continuous improvement.