Construction sites to become more hygienic

Dubai: Authorities have implemented stringent measures against work sites to eradicate rodents and mosquitoes that may lurk in buildings under construction, Dubai Municipality has announced.

In a circular issued on Sunday, the Buildings Department at the municipality announced that construction firms should adhere to the new regulations before the deadline of March 1.

“To protect the public’s health, all sites under construction should first spray insecticide before carrying out any type of work. In this manner, we intend to prevent the problem of mosquitoes, flies and rodents in construction sites before they happen,” said Khalid Mohammad Saleh, director of the department.

Speaking to Gulf News, Elmahi Al Tilib Gubran, specialist at the Public Health Services Department, said that although there has not been an increase in the number of pests at construction sites, such areas act as a breeding ground for insects that can then make their way into neighbouring homes.

“Rodents need food, water and shelter, and construction sites provide all of that. The construction materials act as the shelter, and the tankers used to mix the supplies provides the water, which can turn into a breeding ground for mosquitoes. And as the workers bring their own food, the sites demand attention from the public health department,” he said.

Gubran explained that homes located near areas of construction are required to have their homes sprayed by with licensed pest control companies, and should not leave their rubbish outside the garbage chute, or on the ground.

“All buildings have their own procedure when it comes to pest control, and residents should ensure that the management carries them out on a regular basis,” he said.

The new rules also extend to beefing up security measures to protect the safety of workers.

In an interview with Gulf News, Abdullah Al Shizawi, head of the supervision section at the buildings department, said that the circular further states the installation of at least four surveillance cameras in the premises of four-storey buildings or higher.

“The CCTVs will be connected to the municipality’s control room, which allows us to monitor if any violations are taking place. As the site will be watched round the clock, an inspector will be able to fine the construction company on the spot,” he said. The cameras should be installed either on cranes or in any high place overlooking the site.

The surveillance cameras will also enable officials to monitor the progress of projects, and check whether they meet all the requirements in providing a safe environment for workers.

According to the circular, firms will be required to install fences made of aluminium or PVC plastic sheets at a minimum of two metres high, and under the supervision of an engineer. All floors should be equipped with a chute for debris to be thrown into a covered rubbish container.