Dubai updates standards for concrete blocks

Dubai Municipality's (DM) Dubai Central Laboratory has updated the standard specifications for concrete blocks used in building and construction through its Research and Standardisation Management office.

This comes from the municipality's vision in following the international standards and practices for the preservation of the environment, public health and safety. The specification consisting of various parts focuses on different types of blocks, and the update included the following parts and types: the first part focused on natural weight concrete blocks; the second part on lightweight concrete blocks and the third part is related to paving concrete blocks.

Hwa Abdullah Bastaki, Head of Dubai Central Laboratory, said the update is in line with the laboratory's vision to use best products available at the global level. This is also an integral part of the municipality's vision, keeping it always in pace with global developments. The update specifications was essential in order to apply the best international standards for products traded in the domestic market in accordance with prevailing local conditions in the country, she said.

"In addition the municipality has taken into account the observations that we have already received through regular meetings held with the owners of factories and laboratories of those specifications currently used according to the local memo No. 44:1990," she added.

Arif Al Marzouqi, Acting Head of Research and Standardization Management Office said: "The municipality currently has a list of 23 different products' specifications intended for circulation in the local market, which is based on the practices and international standards, and these specifications are continuously reviewed to keep pace with the global developments. We are updating them accordingly."

The first draft of the updated concrete blocks specifications will be circulated among brick factories, consultants and practitioners in order to take their views and comments on the updated specifications prior to the adoption of the final update, he said.

The municipality believes in involving all stakeholders in all issues affecting them and their lives and their work, he added.

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