Fire-Hazard Cladding Removed from First Sharjah Building in Dh100m Safety Drive

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In a significant step towards enhancing safety & fire prevention in the emirate of Sharjah, the removal of fire-hazard cladding from high-risk buildings has commenced as part of a Dh100 million safety initiative.

The campaign aims to replace combustible building materials with fire-resistant alternatives, mitigating the rapid spread of fires and allowing more time for emergency response. This crucial project is being carried out under the leadership of Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, with the ultimate goal of reducing building fires and safeguarding public safety.

In April, authorities identified 203 high-risk buildings, including both residential towers and commercial structures, whether privately or government-owned. The first building in this extensive safety drive has seen the removal of flammable cladding, and replaced with fire-resistant materials approved by the Sharjah Civil Defence Authority. This initial phase is part of a broader effort to secure a total of 40 high-priority buildings in the first instance, with upgrades for the remaining 163 structures scheduled to follow.

The entire project is financially supported by the Sharjah government, and they aim to complete all the required improvements by the second quarter of 2024. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Sharjah Municipality, Sharjah Civil Defence Authority, and the Department of Planning and Survey, ensuring that the highest levels of safety and security are provided for both residents and commercial establishments.

The project involves close cooperation with building owners to ensure the successful implementation of safety upgrades. Before any work commences, building owners submit final designs for each structure, ensuring that the improvements meet the necessary safety standards.

Notably, the use of aluminium composite-panel cladding was prohibited in the United Arab Emirates following the introduction of the Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice in January 2017, with subsequent updates in the following year.