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.