SCIM Field visit: Express Avenue-Chennai

                      As part of our PG Diploma program in Security and Corporate Intelligence Management, my classmates and I had the opportunity to visit Express Avenue Mall in Chennai. This mall is a vibrant shopping and entertainment hub known for its diverse range of stores, restaurants, and a multiplex. It’s also highly regarded for its excellent security measures, which include 24/7 CCTV monitoring, a well-trained security team, metal detectors, and detailed safety protocols. Our visit began with an engaging session led by Mr. Poovarasan, the mall assistant manager. He walked us through the mall's infrastructure and the systems in place to ensure safety and security. He explained the building’s design, active and passive fire safety systems, and how these systems include fire alarms, smoke ventilation, and facilities for individuals with disabilities. He also shed light on how the control room operates, the role of the emergency response team, and how fire safety is managed in public areas. His explanation of the four stages of fire and effective extinguishing techniques was particularly insightful. He also stressed the importance of regular maintenance and testing to keep all these systems functioning efficiently. After this informative session, we toured the mall to see these safety and security measures. We observed the fire alarm and LPG control panels in the control room. The fire control room showcased models of firefighting equipment, and we learned about the mock drills conducted every six months. In the fire pump room, we gained an understanding of the different types of pumps, including jockey pumps, main pumps, and diesel-driven pumps. Visiting the diesel generator room showed us how power backups are managed. We also explored the mall’s crowd management, surveillance systems, and advanced features like pressurization systems, air curtains, and fire dampers integrated into the HVAC system. A standout moment of the tour was seeing how seamlessly the teams coordinated during routine checks and addressed emergencies efficiently.

              The visit concluded with an insightful discussion with Mr. Parathasarathi, the General Manager for Fire and Safety. He delved deeper into the mall’s safety and security protocols and highlighted teamwork's critical role in maintaining a safe environment. He shared examples of real-life situations where the team’s preparedness and coordination were instrumental in resolving issues effectively. His stories provided a real-world perspective on the importance of proactive measures and collaboration. Overall, this visit to Express Avenue Mall was an eye-opening and educational experience. It gave us hands-on exposure to a large commercial complex's safety and security systems. Observing these systems in operation and interacting with experienced professionals allowed us to better understand how safety measures protect visitors and staff alike. This experience reinforced what we have learned in our studies and underscored the importance of integrating technology and providing continuous training for security personnel to stay ahead of evolving challenges.