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Fire-secure malls

Oriental City Mall in Durban chooses Chubb Fire and Security.

Chubb Fire and Security Durban has been awarded a contract to design and install an automatic fire sprinkler system for the Oriental City Mall, situated in the centre of Durban, Kwa Zulu-Natal.

Owned by Western Ocean Investments, Oriental City Mall is an expansive 2000-square-metre wholesale shopping precinct designed to meet the requirements of an upmarket retail mall. It is home to more than 70 shops in a variety of sectors, including fashion, décor, lifestyle, supermarkets, furniture, electronic appliances and hardware,” said Rose Luo of Western Ocean Investments.

“Like any other retail space, it is a requirement for the building to be compliant with the Automatic Sprinkler Inspection Bureau (ASIB) rules for insurance purposes. All equipment has been designed and installed in accordance with internationally recognised standards and criteria and the equipment has to be maintained and inspected according to these standards,” said Corne Momberg, regional sales manager, Chubb Fire and Security, KwaZulu-Natal.

There are numerous benefits to installing an automatic fire sprinkler system. Should a fire break out on the premises of the shopping mall, the system installed should help contain the spread of damage once the fire has been detected. In addition the system can significantly reduce the risk of burnt out structures or property. Thirdly and probably most importantly, effective use of the sprinkler system can allow occupants time to safely evacuate and escape from a burning structure.

Momberg said it was frightening how many buildings in South Africa were not actually fire compliant and said most employers did not know that it was their legal obligation to assure the safety of their employees and anyone visiting their premises.

He further added that if a member of staff or a visitor is injured or killed in a fire while on the company premises or in the shopping mall, the owner of the mall or MD of the company could be personally liable in the form of hefty fines or even prison sentences if it is non compliant.

“This sobering thought makes the installation of an automatic fire sprinkler system an absolute requirement,” said Momberg.

He therefore suggests implementing a fire prevention strategy and says minimising the risk of fire breaking out is the number one priority. Good housekeeping, including some simple steps such as banning smoking and training staff, can have a positive impact on reducing the risk of fire.

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