13 Feb Kuwait Fire Force warn of cladding danger
Kuwait Fire Force’s chief has been warning of the danger of external cladding that some buildings use. Lieutenant General Khaled Al-Mekrad, explained that in some cases the external cladding does not meet the safety requirements that have been set out by the force.
The fire chief was speaking at a recent symposium organised by the force which was focused on the risks and challenges of cladding. He underlined that preventative seminars such as this were essential for highlighting the issue of cladding and its safety. While cladding is used externally to change the façade of a building and improve its appearance, it is vital that it follows the security and safety requirements that are set out by the fire department.
These requirements demand classified and high-quality materials to be used as they can resist heat and cold conduction and offer protection from weather factors. The cladding needs to be able to resist both mechanical pressures and chemical factors.
At last month’s Intersec exhibition, Head of Drawing and Projects at Dubai Civil Defence noted the difficulties in obtaining compliance to the Dubai Fire and Life Safety Code of Practice for existing building facades.