A key factor in the choice of the Cerberus Pro system was the patented ASA (Advanced Signal Analysis) technology in the detectors through which Siemens offers a no-false-alarm guarantee. This led to Hamat looking at alternatives and working closely with ETECHS, Siemens, the main contractor and the consultant to develop a value engineered solution for Riyadh Park. We also had issues with false alarms as the detectors were too sensitive.’ He comments: ‘We had a big issue controlling the sounders, with it taking too long to silence them and requiring a complete reset of the system to do so. A fire system installed at another retail complex operated by Hamat was causing problems. Ghazi H Alruways works for Hamat and is the Facility Manager responsible for the safety and security maintenance at Riyadh Park. Both are inherently disruptive given the number of people attending such sites, highlighted by the 50,000 to 70,000 visitors to Riyadh Park on a typical day and the site’s parking which can accommodate 2,000 cars.
Two of the main issues in fire safety, particularly in public spaces such as shopping complexes, are false alarms and maintenance. It’s the whole experience that matters in meeting the expectations of consultants and end users.’Īvoiding disruption to business continuity He recognizes the importance of the whole package in establishing and maintaining a successful partnership: ‘The technology and the products themselves are obviously crucial but it is also about other factors such as after-sales service, spare parts, availability and responsiveness. Commenting on the relationship with Siemens, which has been in place for some 13 years, he said: ‘We chose Siemens because everybody wants to partner with the best and, to put it in a nutshell, Siemens has a comprehensive, reliable range of products and a strong presence and activity in Saudi.’ Talal Al Ohali is the CEO of ETECHS and has worked for the 500-employee business since 2008. Protecting such a prestigious site from the threat of fire is obviously a vital consideration and ETECHS CO, a Solution Partner of Siemens, was appointed to undertake the project for the fire alarm and suppression at Riyadh Park. In terms of retail, the site hosts many of the world’s most famous brands, alongside its 70 restaurants and cafés, Saudi Arabia’s first cinema with an iMAX screen, attractions for children at Magic Planet and its visual, sensory and educational experience in the Museum of Illusions. Riyadh Park is a 132,000m 2 complex owned by Hamat Property Services and located in the heart of the city, offering a unique shopping and entertainment experience. The UL-approved Cerberus PRO fire system from Siemens is providing protection for the largest retail complex in Saudi Arabia’s capital city.