Reflecting on the Tragic Fire Incident in Mosul, Iraq
Firas Naji
Senior Building Surveyor - Fire Safety (Grade A1 Unrestricted All Classes of Building) @ Campbelltown City Council | Town Planner & Building Code (BCA) Consultant @ Silver End Pty Ltd
I am deeply saddened by the recent tragic incident that unfolded in the northern city of Mosul, Iraq, where around 100 lives were lost in a devastating fire that occurred during a wedding celebration in Qaraqosh, Nineveh province. It is a somber reminder of the critical importance of safety measures and the consequences of neglecting them.
The accounts of witnesses and civil defense officials suggest that the fire was ignited by fireworks during the joyous wedding festivities. However, it was the presence of highly flammable metal and plastic composite panels covering the banqueting hall that allowed the fire to rapidly escalate, leading to the tragic loss of lives.
Preliminary investigations have revealed a glaring lack of adherence to safety and security standards. The hall lacked the necessary safety specifications, there were no clear indications of fire exits, and the existing ones did not meet adequate width and distance standards. Shockingly, there were no firefighting equipment or sprinkler systems to suppress the fire or extracts the smoke out of the building. This tragic incident underscores a significant gap in education and awareness about evacuation routes and a lack of accountability.
One aspect that requires our attention is the improper use of building materials that are not permitted. The illegal highly flammable metal composite panels, which collapse quickly and release toxic gases when burned, should have never been used in the construction of the hall. Furthermore, it is evident that there were no regular inspections by authorities to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Another critical factor contributing to such incidents is the unnoticed incorporation of non-compliant building products during later renovations and refurbishments. This oversight can have terrible consequences, as seemingly minor internal works may unknowingly utilize hazardous materials.
It is essential to engage with fire safety experts and local authorities before embarking on any construction, renovation, or refurbishment projects, even if they appear to be minor or internal. Safety should never be compromised for convenience or cost-saving measures.
In light of this tragic event, let us come together as a community to raise awareness about the importance of adhering to safety regulations and building standards. We must ensure that our buildings are constructed and maintained with the highest regard for safety, and that regular inspections are conducted to identify and rectify potential hazards.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families affected by this heartbreaking incident. May their loved ones rest in peace, and may we all commit ourselves to preventing such tragedies in the future.
For more information on minor internal building works, visit the link below for Subdivision 26 Minor building alterations (internal) of the Codes SEPP 2008.
Regards
Firas Naji