ac-webcam-c

Latest News


  • The importance of hydrogen safety systems

    Andrew Dennant, general manager for HIMA Middle East FZE highlights the need for advanced systems to be integrated into the hydrogen value chain to ensure the successful and secure adoption of hydrogen in line with the UAE's sustainability goals

    As the global energy landscape transitions toward sustainability, hydrogen has emerged as a promising resource, particularly for nations such as the UAE, where clean energy and sustainability are central to national priorities. While hydrogen offers substantial potential as an energy source and reduces carbon emissions, its safe use requires advanced functional safety solutions, especially in large-scale industrial applications.

    The role of hydrogen in a sustainable future

    Hydrogen is gaining increasing attention as a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Currently, most hydrogen used in industrial processes is derived from natural gas, commonly called grey hydrogen. However, green hydrogen, produced from water using renewable energy sources such as wind or solar power, is becoming increasingly significant. This process enables a substantial reduction in carbon emissions, positioning green hydrogen as a key component in the transition to a global zero-emission energy system.

    In the UAE, green hydrogen is expected to play a crucial role in decarbonising various sectors, including power generation, transportation and heavy industry. While hydrogen’s adoption remains limited, its use is anticipated to grow significantly as both technology and infrastructure continue to evolve.

    Safe use of hydrogen in industrial applications

    Hydrogen is already widely utilised in industrial processes, such as ammonia production for fertilisers and in high-temperature manufacturing processes. Despite its advantages, hydrogen poses unique safety challenges due to its highly flammable nature. Leaks or uncontained releases of hydrogen can result in significant safety hazards. Therefore, hydrogen must be handled with the utmost care during production, storage and transportation.

    Ensuring the safe use of hydrogen in industrial settings requires the deployment of advanced safety solutions. These systems must be designed to mitigate the specific application risks if hydrogen is to be used safely throughout their entire lifecycle.

    Functional safety solutions for hydrogen

    In large-scale operations, such as power plants or industrial facilities, advanced safety systems are essential for managing the inherent risks of hydrogen. A key example is the hydrogen production process, which involves the use of electrolysers to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. These systems require comprehensive safety functions to monitor and safeguard critical factors such as pressure and temperature. As the scale of hydrogen production increases, the complexity and sophistication of safety systems must evolve to match the rising risks associated with large-scale operations.

    Transportation and storage: the key challenges

    Transportation and storage of hydrogen present additional safety challenges. Due to hydrogen’s molecular properties, it is a highly permeable gas that can leak through even the smallest of cracks in pipelines, posing significant risks. To prevent leaks, advanced leak detection systems are essential. These systems monitor pipelines and storage tanks, providing early warnings and enabling swift corrective action in the event of a leak. Hydrogen storage also requires specialised safety measures. Safety protocols must ensure that storage facilities are equipped with fail-safe systems to mitigate potential risks.

    Hydrogen in public transportation: safe and clean

    In the UAE, hydrogen is being explored as an alternative fuel for public transportation. Hydrogen-powered buses, trains and other vehicles offer a cleaner alternative to conventional fossil fuel-powered transportation, especially in urban areas where reducing emissions is a priority. However, the integration of hydrogen into public transportation systems requires careful planning and implementation of advanced safety measures.

    Safety systems must be developed to manage the use of electricity or hydrogen, depending on the infrastructure. In areas without such infrastructure, hydrogen may serve as the primary energy source. This hybrid approach ensures the safe and efficient operation of hydrogen-powered transportation.

    Smart security for safe hydrogen use

    As the use of digital technologies and automation in hydrogen systems increases, cybersecurity becomes an increasingly critical aspect of functional safety. The potential for cyberattacks on hydrogen production, storage and transportation systems presents a significant risk to safe and reliable operations. Therefore, it is essential to implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect these systems from malicious threats.

    As the UAE continues to innovate in hydrogen technology, safeguarding these systems from cyber threats will be as crucial as the physical safety protocols in place to protect against other risks.

    Looking ahead

    The UAE is well-positioned to become a global leader in hydrogen production, particularly with its strong commitment to clean energy. However, to fully realise the potential of hydrogen as a key component of the UAE’s energy strategy, advanced safety solutions must be integrated across the entire hydrogen value chain. From production and storage to transportation and end use, these safety systems must evolve in tandem with technological advancements to mitigate risks and ensure the safe and efficient use of hydrogen.

    By prioritising functional safety solutions, the UAE can lead by example in demonstrating how hydrogen can be safely and effectively harnessed as a clean energy source, further supporting the nation’s ambitious energy goals and contributing to global efforts toward a sustainable, zero-emission future.

     


Last month, Dubai Municipality hosted an event at Canadian University Dubai, themed “Artificial Intelligence Trends in Shaping the Future of Occupational Health and Safety,” coinciding with the International Labour Organization’s World Day for Safety and Health at Work.

As we reflect on this three weeks later, Dubai’s pioneering use of AI in workplace safety continues to set a global benchmark, aligning with the UAE’s vision for innovation and sustainability.

The event, attended by H.E. Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Acting Director General of Dubai Municipality, H.E. Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation, and H.E. Buti Saeed Al Ghandi, Chancellor of Canadian University Dubai, alongside experts and academics, explored how AI is redefining workplace safety.

Discussions highlighted next-generation technologies such as predictive analytics, AI-powered wearable sensors, and automated compliance systems that enhance well-being, sustainability, and operational efficiency.

These tools are critical to preventing occupational accidents and diseases, a global priority emphasised by the ILO.

Growing use of digitalisation

Dubai Municipality showcased its digital transformation strides, including advanced robots that measure air pollutants in real time, a smart interactive map of the emirate with AI-driven geographic data for rapid alert responses, and virtual reality-based training programs for employees. 

As 2025 progresses, Dubai’s April vision remains a call to action.

Global AI adoption in workplace safety is projected to grow significantly, potentially reducing incidents by 25% by 2026, per industry trends.

Dubai Municipality urges companies to integrate AI into their operations.

Its smart monitoring platforms and applications, built on a foundation of 3D printing and other innovative technologies, offer a model for scalable safety solutions that benefit organisations of all sizes.

This forward-thinking approach supports the UAE’s Vision 2031, which prioritises innovation and societal well-being. By fostering collaboration and welcoming new ideas, Dubai Municipality continues to lead the charge in creating healthier, safer work environments worldwide.

In the future, businesses are encouraged to adopt AI-driven tools and partner with local authorities to align with Dubai’s standards.

 

A growing body of research indicates that young people are increasingly dissatisfied at work. In a recent episode of the ILO’s Global Challenges, Global Solutions podcast, economist Professor David Blanchflower explored the rising levels of unhappiness among youth and the urgent need for action.

Blanchflower highlighted a major shift since 2013. “What we’ve seen is a big increase in the unhappiness levels of the young.” Originally noticed in the US, the trend has spread globally, particularly in developed nations like the UK, Canada, Australia, and Northern Europe. He notes that this rising unhappiness is linked to poor mental health, academic struggles, and difficulty transitioning from school to work.

“Young people who are having problems with their mental health—their test scores, their reading test scores are being negatively impacted,” he said, adding that the problem is evident at university level and beyond, with many young people “moving from college to out of the labour force.”

Internet access and smartphone usage are key contributors. “Places that have had the biggest growth in access to the internet, in general, are the ones that look the worst,” Blanchflower explained. He pointed out that in regions like sub-Saharan Africa, where smartphone penetration is lower, the mental health of young people appears more stable. “It’s about the amount of time they’re spending on their phones,” he added, warning that screen time is replacing real-world experiences vital for development.

A gender imbalance

Gender differences are also striking. “The mental health of young women appears to be much worse than young men,” Blanchflower said. In the US, “about 11% of young women between the ages of 18 and 24 say that every day of their lives is a bad mental health day.” This is accompanied by a rise in suicide attempts and hospitalisations, particularly among young women.

When it comes to solutions, Blanchflower called for better support during the transition from school to work and more structured social engagement for youth. “They’re not joining clubs as they did… They’re not participating in the ways that they did before.” However, he admitted, “We don’t really know what to do.”

He is organising a major conference with the UN to develop global strategies. “Countries around the world are going to have to start to think about what to do, as they did in the 1980s.” The goal is to identify practical measures that governments and international bodies can adapt to local contexts.

“This is like a spreading pandemic,” Blanchflower said. While the challenges are clear, he stresses the need for collective, global action before the damage becomes irreversible.


What makes us different?

Connecting Innovation, Expertise, and Collaboration for a Safe and Sustainable Future.

icon

Our Mission

We create products that transform how people and industries deliver their HSE function. Whether delivering cutting edge content, fostering collaboration, or building connections, we thrive at the intersection of government, industry, and innovation.

icon

Our Approach

As a leader in global HSE strategy and communication, we tap into our international network of experts to address key challenges. Through research and collaboration, we provide insights that help businesses navigate a rapidly evolving market.

icon

Our Purpose

We act as independent influencers, championing innovation, collaboration, and evolving industry HSE standards. By fostering dialogue and partnerships, we contribute to the safe, efficient, and sustainable growth of Health, Safety and Environmental Sustainability.

Upcoming Events

RECOMMENDED VIDEOS

 
Safestart Webinar
 
Brady Webinar
 
SafeStart Event
 
Zero Incident Framework Panel: Oman HSE Forum
 
Environmental Footprint Keynote: Oman HSE Forum

Join Our Community

Logo
Logo
Logo
Logo
Logo
Logo
Logo
Logo
Logo
Logo
Logo
Logo

INSIGHTS FROM INDUSTRY LEADERS ON HSE

Testi Logo

"Attending HSE MENA was invaluable, offering a platform to advance HSE standards in offshore sectors through insights and best practices."

Senior Executive of Health and Safety
Testi Logo

"A very well-organized and professionally managed event with great insights and discussions that will benefit the industry."

Director HSSE Department
Testi Logo

"We gained valuable knowledge that will enhance our business and operations, with key takeaways that can help save lives and improve safety standards."

QHSE Manager
Testi Logo

"Highly informative and well-organized, featuring engaging speakers and insightful discussions. The topics covered were highly relevant, making it a truly great experience."

SHEQ Manager
Testi Logo

"Thanks for the opportunity to present at this event. It was well-organized with great discussions and networking—a pleasure to be part of it."

Associate Director HSE
Testi Logo

"Strong audience-presenter communication, structured topics, and AI in HSE were key in helping organizations enhance safety and efficiency."

HSES
Testi Logo

"A great event with excellent presenters and strong engagement from attendees. The sessions were insightful and well-structured, making it a truly valuable experience."

Director of Health, Safety and Welfare
Testi Logo

"A great experience with insightful presentations, meaningful discussions, and excellent networking opportunities. Already looking forward to next year’s edition!"

Snr Manager - Project HSE