Dubai Police is collaborating with UL, a global safety science firm, to outline the risks and potential criminality posed by 3D printing and to ensure that this emerging technology is safely adopted in the GCC.In a two-day workshop experts estimated that 40% of the global manufacturing industry didn’t know what 3D printing is in any detail.
The global 3D printing market – or additive manufacturing as it is also known – is expected to reach $21 billion by 2020 with safety equipment, toys, construction and manufacturing products among a range of goods that are expected to be provided locally through the world altering technology, as per Wohlers Associates. However, alongside the many potential benefits there are also very serious potential dangers and risks, including the possibility of criminality in terms of counterfeit and untested goods.
“3D printing, or additive manufacturing, will change the world in the years to come offering huge steps forward in manufacturing, construction, medical care and many other sectors. However, as with all new technology it must be understood to be implemented safely,” said Hamid Syed, Vice President & GM, UL Middle East.
“By understanding why the necessary training is important and what type of training individuals need, we can safely move this innovative technology in the right direction as it is applied across different industries and applications. It’s fantastic to see forward thinking authorities such as Dubai Police not only embracing this exciting technology, but doing so in such a controlled and well thought out manner,” continued Hamid.
Colonel Badran Al Shamsi, Deputy Director of the General Department of Training at Dubai Police said: “3D printing technology is advancing rapidly across the world and Dubai Police are committed to being forerunners in the 3D generation by highlighting the world’s best practices adopted in the public safety industry.”
Dr Khalid Rafi, Lead Development Engineer at UL’s Global Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence in Singapore believes that another concern is the number of people in key industries throughout the world who don’t understand the technology.
Dr Rafi stated, “We estimate that 40% of the global manufacturing industry don’t know what 3D printing is in any detail. All stakeholders involved in this technology should have some basic understanding of it in order for it to progress and grow, which is why we came up with a workshop that helps to go some way in teaching the basic principles of the technology.”
Earlier this year, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid UAE Vice-President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai ruler of Dubai announced that by 2030 25% of all of Dubai’s construction will be 3D printed.
