DSS, working with officials of Nakheel, and other Palm Deira stakeholders conducted successful rescue operations as part of the drill, which simulated real-life action scenario of an emergency situation at the site.

Mr. Mahmood Amin, chief executive officer of DSS, said that the procedure was aimed at familiarising people on the possible course of action in case of an accident. "DSS is totally committed to providing comprehensive security coverage to the various facilities of Dubai World companies. We do not leave anything to chance that could jeopardise the safety and security of people as well as the facility. The drill is a precautionary measure to pre-empt any potential hazard. It covers all aspects of an emergency," he added.

Mr. Adnan Al Naqi, managing director of Palm Deira, expressed the importance of the emergency drill as the Palm Deira project is fast progressing. "The security drill is part of our efforts to ensure the safety of residents and visitors of Palm Deira. Safety is a priority for Nakheel and emergency preparedness is an integral part of a well-functioning community. We appreciate the contribution of DSS and our other partners in maintaining high safety standards for our projects."

Mr. Saeed Khamis, security manager, Palm Deira, emphasised that "The security drill is part of our efforts to ensure 360 degree protection to Palm Deira and its people. We want everyone to be fully prepared for an emergency. The DSS officials as well as the volunteers who are taking part in the drill have enacted a real-life action situation, so that the preparedness is total. In addition, the valuable footage captured allows all stakeholders to review performance and enhance response plans, plus it feeds into the training program of the expanding manpower base with DSS."

Similar drills are a regular part of DSS's operations. The company provides manpower as well as engineering services to the entire Dubai World group from risk management and consultancy, to security command and control centre design, engineering and operations.

The DSS has an operational security network that covers port, marine, industrial, building, commercial, technical, patrolling, events, logistics and intelligence. It uses cutting edge technology in providing modern security solutions.

DSS's commitment to improvement of service quality was recently rewarded with the presentation of ISO 9001:2000 certificate.