The recent spate of fire incidents in Dubai's industrial neighbourhood may be linked to
poor adherence of basic protocol for electrical fault prevention including earthing, said a safety expert.

Duval Messien, a leader in the field of lightning protection, has urged companies to follow stringent electrical maintenance protocols even for earthing, like in the EU where enforcement of maintenance protocols is stringently followed.

"The recent fire at Al Quoz in Dubai, which engulfed more than 70 warehouses and caused a staggering Dh600 million ($163 million) in damage, is but a shocking reminder of the destructive powers of fire and the way we are ignoring to safeguard from it," said Sonjib Banerjee, technical director, Duval Messien.

Citing media reports, he said the Al Qouz area has had a history of fire-related incidents, with eight fires since 2003.

"Reuters in another report had stated that the world's largest artificial islands ‘the palm’ also experienced similar devastation last year, wounding three people and charring two unfinished buildings due to an apparent electrical fault."

“With soaring temperatures and hi-rise buildings in Dubai, these incidents can increase manifold if corrective measures are not taken fast, Banerjee pointed out

He said the company was ensuring maximum electrical safety through its quality products and by increasing awareness on electrical safety issues in the region.

Inspite of all technological safeguards, it becomes important to equip oneself against such causalities. There need to be safety measures, which are in built in the system, he noted.

“The issue of electrical safety impacts the community at large including the environment. The intelligent community needs to be more aware of each component of safety, options available, and how electrical faults are filtered, collected, transmitted and dissipated," he added.-TradeArabia News Service