Abu Dhabi Boosts Gas Network Safety Measures

In the UAE, the security of gas networks is treated with high priority, and as such, rigorous inspections are conducted nationwide. According to the latest report by the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE), more than 11,000 facilities have been examined, and unfortunately, numerous deficiencies were found in the adherence to safety regulations related to cooking gas.

Among the most common issues were the use of poor-quality hoses and gas appliances, acquisition of unauthorized gas cylinders, and storage of gas bottles without permission. Such irregularities pose significant safety hazards as they increase the risk of gas leaks and explosions.

The inspections particularly highlighted that many residential users, including household workers and laborers, as well as operators of restaurants and cafés, do not adequately comply with safety regulations. Employers are required to ensure that their employees receive proper training, and recruitment companies also have a responsibility to ensure that workers perform their tasks prepared.

However, the DoE does not only conduct inspections but also actively works to improve safety. Recently, more than 450 central gas tanks and control panels were replaced, and over 10,000 gas leak detectors were installed in various buildings. In addition, outdated or duplicate systems were eliminated, thereby reducing risks.

To further enhance security, the DoE has introduced several regulations, including the prohibition of gas cylinder use in buildings with a central gas network, mandatory proper ventilation and emergency exits in commercial kitchens, and regular maintenance with authorized service providers. Furthermore, all gas leaks must be reported immediately to the emergency number 997.

The DoE also emphasizes that commercial establishments are obliged to maintain up-to-date documentation, including the Certificate of Conformity, No Objection Certificate, Project Completion Certificate, Annual Maintenance Contract, and the Civil Defense Safety and Prevention Compliance Certificate. Failure to comply can result in severe legal consequences, potentially leading to the closure of the business.

The public and restaurants are particularly encouraged to implement preventive safety measures. For instance, it is recommended to install gas leak detectors, work only with authorized gas service providers, and regularly check the condition of appliances. A simple yet effective inspection method is using soapy water on gas pipelines; if bubbles are seen, it may indicate a leak.

If someone smells gas, DoE experts advise immediately turning off the main valve, ventilating the premises, avoiding switching on electrical devices or lighting a fire, and promptly calling the emergency services or the gas service provider.

The ministry continues to disseminate information with a large-scale campaign, communicating on digital platforms in multiple languages, sending SMS notifications, and distributing multilingual informational materials to hospitality units. Additionally, they organize interactive workshops and virtual reality-based educational programs for vulnerable groups, including workers and kitchen staff.

Thanks to such comprehensive measures, Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen the safety of gas networks, ensuring risk-free everyday life for residents and businesses.

(Source of the article: Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE) announcement.)