Bridging Gap Between Demand and Quality Supply

In an interview with REM TIMES, Muhammad Ajmal Saeed, Founder and CEO, EHTS, discusses the emerging trends in fire safety technology

As per studies, the global fire protection system market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 6.6% from 2023 to 2030 to reach USD 130.37 billion by 2030. Even in the UAE, the industry has immense potential although there is a gap between demand and quality supply.

With over a decade of experience providing technical services in fire safety & MEP in the UAE market, Emerging Horizons Technical Services (EHTS) strives to bridge this gap and has, over the years, emerged as one of the leaders in offering end-to-end solutions to its clients. In an interview with REM TIMES, Muhammad Ajmal Saeed, Founder and CEO, EHTS, discusses the emerging trends in fire safety technology and the steps taken by the organisation to engage proactively with the community.

Q1. Could you provide insights into three key advancements and emerging trends in fire safety technology? 

Fire safety technology is galloping by leaps and bounds with several news trends emerging in it.

Some of these fire safety trends include:

• Smart Fire Detection Systems: These systems use advanced sensors and artificial intelligence to detect fires at an early stage and reduce false alarms. They can also integrate with building automation systems to provide real-time information on potential fire hazards.
• Advanced Fire Suppression Technologies: Newer fire suppression technologies, such as clean agent systems and water mist systems, are becoming more prevalent due to their effectiveness in extinguishing fires while minimizing damage to property and the environment.
• Integration of Internet of Things (IoT): IoT-enabled devices allow for better monitoring and control of fire safety systems. These devices can provide real-time data on fire hazards, equipment status, and occupant location, improving overall fire safety management. 

These advancements and trends are driving the evolution of fire safety technology, making buildings safer and more resilient to fire-related risks.

Q2. Given the rapid evolution of fire safety technology, how does your organisation proactively integrate these advancements into your services?

The rapid advancement of fire safety technology presents both opportunities and challenges for companies, necessitating adaptation and integration to enhance capabilities, operational efficiency, and client protection.

We, as an organisation, are integrating these advancements by the adoption of advanced fire detection and monitoring systems, implementation of enhanced fire suppression and control measures, provision of smart fire safety solutions and consultancy, development of comprehensive fire risk assessment and management capabilities, embracing training and education on advanced fire safety technologies, collaboration with technology providers and research institutions.

Q3. Considering the distinct characteristics of the UAE, what do you identify as the most significant challenges in the realm of fire safety? How can these be tackled?

The UAE presents a unique set of challenges in the realm of fire safety due to its distinctive characteristics, which include rapid urbanisation, diverse architectural landscapes, extreme weather conditions, and a vibrant economy.

However, these can be solved by -

• The integration of advanced fire safety technologies and smart solutions like IoT-enabled fire detection systems, AI for fire risk assessment, and advanced fire suppression systems.
• The adaptation of these technologies to UAE's unique environment and high-temperature and high-humidity settings requires expertise
• A multi-faceted approach integrating advanced technologies, specialized expertise, comprehensive risk assessments, and stakeholder collaboration is essential.
• Continuous education, training, and public awareness campaigns to enhance fire safety culture and preparedness

Q4. Building a resilient and fire-safe community involves proactive engagement. What specific steps does your organisation take to engage with the local community regarding fire safety awareness and preparedness?

Building a resilient and fire-safe community requires sustained commitment, collaboration, and a shared sense of responsibility among all stakeholders involved. However, by implementing certain proactive engagement strategies, organisations can effectively mobilise the local community and empower individuals to take an active role in prioritising fire safety awareness and preparedness.

Some of the steps that we take to engage the local community are –

• Educational workshops and training programme
• Community outreach events
• Distribution of educational materials
• Collaboration with schools and educational institutions
• Multi-lingual communication
• Community risk assessments
• Demonstrations and simulations
• Engagement through social media and digital platforms
• Partnerships with local businesses and organisations
• Continuous feedback mechanisms