Growing awareness over fire safety has ensured interest in fire resistance products has grown over the last year, according to Promat UK, which specialises in passive fire protection products.
According to Santosh Naya, technical services advisor, Middle East, Promat, there has been a noticeable increase in interest for such services. “We have noticed over the last 12 months, people are taking more interest in the various technologies we offer,” he said.
However, the issue is clouded as Naya explains that there are currently no clear specifications for Dubai or the Middle East region. Instead all materials, which conform to British or North American standards, are allowed to be used regardless of the varying performance or relevance to the region. “There are no official fire regulations for materials,” he said.
However, according to Chris Miles, business and technical development manager, Bodycote Warringtonfire, Dubai Civil Defence Authority is now working with the company to tighten up and establish a testing facility to service the region. “We are working with DCD to provide them with advice on fire safety,” said Miles.
The facility, set to open in early 2008, will deliver internationally accredited laboratory testing services. It will be managed and operated by Bodycote and will offer fire testing of products, building materials and assemblies to the latest international and European standards.
The company is currently involved with projects such as Dubai Mall, Palm Jumeirah and the expanding Abu Dhabi airport. The company is also looking to work with Dubai Metro in the coming months. Its passive fire protection products include Supalux, a non-combustible, moisture resistant building board that offers 240 minutes of fire protection. Promatect-H is a non-combustible calcium silicate board reinforced with selected fibres and fillers.
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