DUBAI Silicon Oasis (DSO), the integrated free zone technology park, organised a fire and evacuation drill in collaboration with Dubai Civil Defence at its headquarters to strengthen emergency plans and ensure a smooth and safe evacuation in the eventuality of fire.

Over 2,000 individuals working at the DSO Authority headquarters took part in the fire emergency exercise that has been held annually since 2010 in a bid to ensure best fire safety preparedness at the high-tech park.

A simulated fire incident scenario complete with fire trucks and ambulances from Dubai Police and Dubai Ambulance Services was enacted to support the evacuation process and make the drill a realistic experience. The entire exercise continued for one hour.

Engineer Khalil Odeh Shalan, vice president, operations and facilities at Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority (DSOA), said: “Health, safety and environment are key pillars of DSO’s three-pronged corporate social responsibility strategy that also focuses on human capital and the community. We follow stringent international safety guidelines and rules to avoid fire incidents at DSO. We are confident that conducting a fire drill at least once a year is the best way to support our safety guidelines and rules in order to ensure the safety and well-being of the entire DSO community. “

He added: “We organise yearly trainings for our staff as well as the staff working with companies operating within the high-tech park to ensure the preparedness of certified fire wardens that can assist and lead their colleagues in case of emergencies. Moreover, it is critical to educate the employees at DSO about the significance of following emergency plans and adhering to safety and security measures that can save lives. The initiative also helps Dubai Civil Defence and Dubai Police guarantee that the emergency teams are quick and responsive.”

Dubai Silicon Oasis is a wholly-owned entity of the Government of Dubai and operates as a free zone for semiconductor, microelectronic and other high technology-based companies looking to set up their regional headquarters and research and development (R&D) facilities in the Middle East and North Africa region.