Alarm fatigue in the UAE

Alarm fatigue occurs when a person becomes desensitised to an alarm, due to repeated false alarms and therefore fail to react appropriately in an emergency. It is not uncommon for public buildings across the UAE to be evacuated because of a false alarm. 

As recommended in BS 5839-1:2017 manual call points can be fitted with a protective cover to prevent false fire alarms, and halt alarm fatigue:

“All MCPs should be fitted with a protective cover, which is moved to gain access to the frangible elements,” explains Safety Technology International (STI).

A British Standard with global reach, BS 5839-1 has been used on high profile construction projects across the Middle East - including Dubai.

Safety Technology International supply a range of protective covers, from integral covers to sounder models; there are variations to suit all applications. These covers are specifically designed to prevent false alarms.