As Saudi Arabia embarks on an ambitious construction spree with over 5,200 projects valued at more than US$819 billion, the urgency for comprehensive fire safety strategies in the built environment is paramount. This critical issue will be addressed at the upcoming Intersec Saudi Arabia, taking place from October 1-3 at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center (RICEC).
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Expert Insights on Fire Management
Neil Odin, Chief Fire Officer from the UK National Fire Chiefs Council, is set to share his expertise at the Fire Protection and Technology Summit. With over three decades of experience in the UK fire service, Odin will lead a panel discussion titled “Crisis to Recovery: Strategies for Effective Fire Post-Incident Management.” This session, scheduled for the exhibition’s opening day, will focus on the unique challenges faced by the Middle East in fire safety.
Recent research from Mordor Intelligence highlights the scale of ongoing construction in Saudi Arabia, which spans various sectors including residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure. This expansive growth underscores the necessity for an effective Fire Safe Design strategy.
Odin emphasizes the interconnectedness of fire response strategies with fire-safe building designs: “A response strategy cannot stand alone; it must be intricately linked with fire-safe building designs and comprehensive prevention strategies. Understanding the root causes of fire disasters and sharing this knowledge is key to innovating effective solutions.” He believes that Saudi Arabia has the potential to become a leader in global fire management through proactive risk management in new developments.
Focus on Post-Incident Recovery
The panel will delve into the essential phases that follow a fire incident, sharing best practices and innovative approaches aimed at restoring normalcy for affected communities, buildings, and emergency responders. Joining Odin on the panel is Jamal Al Ghamdi, Corporate Process Safety Director at Sadara Chemical Company.
Additional sessions on the opening day will address critical topics such as community education on fire safety awareness, fire safety hazards related to electric vehicles, and lessons learned from past disasters to bolster emergency preparedness.
Comprehensive Agenda for Fire Safety
The second day of the Summit will cover a wide range of topics, including the integration of IoT and AI in fire safety systems, advancements in robotics for firefighting, safeguarding fire safety infrastructure against emerging threats, and the challenges posed by climate change.
Riham Sedik, Show Manager for Intersec Saudi Arabia, highlighted the exhibition’s vital role: “Intersec Saudi Arabia provides a platform for the greatest minds and most experienced individuals to discuss critical challenges, opportunities, standards, policies, and technology relating to fire safety. Our packed agenda ensures that Intersec Saudi Arabia remains a key date for all concerned in this field.”
Exhibition Growth and Participation
Alongside the Fire Protection and Technology Summit, the Future Security and Safety Summit will also take place, emphasizing the convergence of security thought leadership and global expertise. Both summits are part of Intersec Saudi Arabia’s CPD-certified content and conference program.
This year, the exhibition has experienced unprecedented demand, resulting in a sold-out show two months before the opening. To accommodate this surge, the exhibition space has increased by 34% compared to 2023, covering a total area of 23,000 sqm across five halls, along with a dedicated outdoor space.
Intersec Saudi Arabia is organized by 1st Arabia and licensed by Messe Frankfurt, in collaboration with The High Commission for Industrial Security and The General Directorate of Saudi Civil Defense. This sixth edition promises to be a pivotal event for safety, security, and fire professionals, running from October 1-3, 2024.
Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO and Founder of 1st Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences, expressed enthusiasm for the caliber of experts participating: “I’m delighted to see such a high calibre of experts who will be able to share insights from their many years of experience. This secures our position as a must-attend exhibition.”
About Intersec Saudi Arabia
Intersec Saudi Arabia is the premier event for emergency services, security, and safety, taking place from October 1-3, 2024, at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center. As the leading exhibition dedicated to the safety, security, and fire industry in the Kingdom, it continues to serve as a vital platform for industry professionals and stakeholders.
