HSE regulators and experts may suggest that comprehensive HSE strategies and regulation is critical regardless of region or breadth of operation. It is doubtless, however, that Saudi Arabia's political, business and societal landscape pose unique challenges that deserve due consideration by operators in the region.
A unique climate posing unique challenges
One might not expect a global superpower in the industrial and tourism spheres to emerge from the harsh desert environment of Saudi Arabia. The fact that one has, however, has earned it widespread criticism around worker safety, perhaps with little surprise given its extreme heat, sandstorms and dehydration risk.
Heat stress management and hydration/temperature policies demand rigorous implementation and monitoring to assuage some of that criticism and limit heat-related incidents.
Rising to the challenge of oil & gas reliance
Saudi Arabia's historic reliance on the oil & gas industry carries risk. The industry has unfortunately been ridden with high-profile incidents of compromised safety and, given the international standards of operation, neglecting or breaching policy jeopardises not only safety but reputation and project feasibility.
Staying one step ahead of shifting regulation
While KSA has made significant strides in HSE regulations, compliance remains an ongoing challenge due to rapidly-changing standards. Saudi Vision 2030 initiative aims to improve workplace safety and environmental sustainability, but carries with it near-constant shifting policies. Companies must stay updated with new regulations and ensure proper implementation.
Overcoming language barriers
Saudi Arabia's multinational workforce means language and communication barriers can hinder the efficacy of HSE training. Ensuring that safety regulations are both understood and carried out across various languages and cultures is essential for accident prevention.
Four unique HSE challenges faced by operators in Saudi Arabia
