ABU DHABI // Fire safety inspections will continue at all construction sites in the emirate.
Col Mohammed Al Nuaimi, the acting general director of Civil Defence, said inspections have increased in an effort to fight any chance of a fire breaking out.
Several violations have already been recorded. Sites with repeated violations have been made to pause projects until security and safety requirements are met.
Col Al Nuaimi said several contractors have attempted to provide temporary fire safety precautions that were not in line with UAE requirements or international standards.
For instance, Lt Col Sami Al Naqbi, the director of civil protection and safety, said through inspections, Civil Defence found that many construction sites provided a "hose reel" water hose, instead of the required 2.5-inch hose.
A hose reel is not powerful enough to fight big fires, he said.
In addition, with that sort of hose, the line would need to be extendable to each floor in order to adhere to requirements.
Civil Defence said fire extinguishers must be available every 15 metres on every floor, and be maintained continuously.
Contractors must form emergency plans and coordinate with Civil Defence centres to ensure that everyone is ready and able to fight a fire when need be, they said.
