Industrial Insights
Industrial Insights
- Details
- Louise Waters
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 13 May 2025
- Year: 2025
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a highly toxic gas found in various industrial settings, and understanding the difference between low and high concentrations is crucial, says MSA Safety
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a colorless, highly toxic gas with a characteristic rotten egg smell at low concentrations. It is commonly found in industries such as oil and gas, wastewater treatment, and mining. Exposure to H2S poses serious health risks, ranging from mild irritation to fatal poisoning, depending on concentration levels. To ensure worker safety, it is essential to understand the differences between low and high concentrations and implement effective detection and protection strategies.
Low vs. high concentrations of H2S
At low concentrations (0.01–10 ppm), H2S emits a strong odor, which can serve as an initial warning. However, prolonged exposure, even at these levels, can cause eye irritation, headaches, and dizziness. Between 10–50 ppm, symptoms become more pronounced, including nausea and respiratory discomfort.
At higher concentrations, the risks increase dramatically:
- 50–100 ppm: Severe eye and respiratory irritation, with potential lung damage.
- 100–500 ppm: Loss of smell (olfactory fatigue), making the gas even more dangerous.
- 500–1000 ppm: Immediate collapse, unconsciousness, and life-threatening respiratory failure.
- 1000+ ppm: Rapid death within minutes due to respiratory paralysis.
Given these dangers, relying on the human sense of smell is ineffective. Instead, advanced gas detection technologies are critical for early warning and safety.
Enhancing safety with connected gas detection
MSA Safety’s ALTAIR io4 gas detector, part of the Connected Work Platform, provides real-time monitoring and instant alerts when H2S levels reach dangerous thresholds. Designed for harsh environments, the ALTAIR io4 enhances worker protection with features like:
- Automated Compliance: Ensuring devices remain properly calibrated and tested.
- Real-Time Alerts: Immediate notifications for exposure risks.
- Cloud-Based Data Management: Providing insights to improve workplace safety protocols.
Enter your details to watch the video to see how the ALTAIR io4 can protect your team.
Additional protection with MSA+ Services
Beyond detection, maintaining reliable equipment is key to ensuring continuous safety. MSA+ offers two essential services to optimize device performance:
- MSA+ Device Protection: Coverage for accidental damage and extended maintenance.
- MSA+ Autofill: Automated replacement of calibration gas and sensors to keep devices ready for use.
These services reduce downtime and operational costs while ensuring workers remain protected at all times.
Learn more about MSA+ Device Protection and MSA+ Autofill to keep your gas detection equipment in top condition.
Conclusion
Understanding the risks associated with H2S exposure and implementing reliable gas detection solutions are essential for workplace safety. The ALTAIR io4, combined with MSA+ services, provides a comprehensive approach to hazard detection and equipment maintenance. Prioritise safety by equipping your team with the right tools.
Enter your details to watch the video to see MSA Safety’s solutions in action.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Industrial
- Date: 12 May 2025
- Year: 2025
Honeywell has launched a new gas detector assembly line at the Masdar Innovation Center in Abu Dhabi, in alignment with the UAE’s industrialisation and localisation objectives
This will focus on the assembly of Honeywell’s RAEGuard 3 Series – fixed toxic and flammable gas detectors using advanced sensor technology – along with the BW Clip Series of portable, single-gas detectors. Designed to protect industrial workers operating in potentially hazardous environments, these gas detectors will serve local and regional customers.
The new assembly line supports the ‘Make it in the Emirates’ campaign by expanding local manufacturing capabilities, creating jobs, upskilling local talent and accelerating technology transfer, strengthening the UAE’s position as a hub for advanced industrial technology. It will also support Operation 300Bn, the UAE’s strategic initiative to grow the industrial sector’s contribution to GDP from AED 133 billion to AED 300 billion by 2031.
“Honeywell has been a longstanding partner of the UAE, committed to empowering local industry and enabling economic diversification,” said George Bou Mitri, president, Honeywell Industrial Automation, Middle East, Turkey, Africa, Central Asia. “The launch of our new gas detector assembly line represents more than an expansion of our manufacturing footprint – it’s a step forward in shaping a smarter, safer, and more sustainable industrial future for the UAE.”
Honeywell opened the dedicated Masdar Innovation Center in Abu Dhabi’s Masdar City in 2019 to focus on local assembly, integration, and testing of advanced automation technologies. It enables faster delivery, local customisation, and technical support for customers across the UAE and wider Middle East, achieving full marks last year in the UAE’s Industrial Technology Transformation Index (ITTI), a national benchmark for digitalisation and sustainability excellence.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Training
- Topic: Training
- Date: 7 May, 2025
- Year: 2025
With construction continuing to rank among the most dangerous industries in the UK, NEBOSH has refreshed its Health and Safety Management for Construction qualification to better equip professionals tackling the sector’s evolving risks.
Between 2023 and 2024 alone, the industry accounted for 51 work-related fatalities in Great Britain, accounting for nearly 40% of all workplace deaths that year.
To strengthen its relevance, NEBOSH has updated the course content for 2025, incorporating feedback from past learners and input from a panel of industry experts.
New topics include managing fatigue and understanding the powers of inspectors, and the challenges increasingly faced on modern sites.
Designed for both UK and international learners, the UK version is aligned with Construction (Design and Management) Regulations, while the international pathway follows ILO guidance.
The course aims to help learners identify and control construction hazards, develop safe systems of work, contribute to incident investigations, and advise on legal responsibilities under construction legislation.
It also focuses on fostering a strong health and safety culture, improving contractor management, and giving learners the confidence to challenge unsafe behaviours.
Survey data indicates the qualification is well-received: 96% of UK respondents and 100% of international participants said they would recommend the course.
A similar majority reported improved skills in recognising risks and hazards in the construction environment. The Level 7 UK qualification remains recognised by the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS), with holders eligible to apply for the Academically Qualified Person (AQP) card.
Michael Smith, response supervisor - Housing Repairs for South Holland District Council, said, “I found the whole course extremely interesting; the study and work-based scenarios were good and worthwhile. I thought the content of the course was pitched correctly, and the syllabus covered it [the topic] in great depth. Having gained the qualification, I am now in a position where I feel that I can make a positive impact within the workplace.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- News
- Topic: Events
- Date: 7 February, 2025
- Year: 2025
Time is running out! Don’t miss your chance to attend the SafeStart Trainer Certification Level 1 Course in Dubai, UAE, on 18–19 February 2025.
This immersive two-day programme is your opportunity to:
✅ Enhance workplace safety and reduce incidents
✅ Gain expert insights into human factors and critical errors
✅ Become a certified SafeStart trainer and lead safety transformations in your organisation
Location: Media Rotana, Hessa Street, Dubai, UAE
⏰ Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
What past global participants had to say:
“My perspective on safety has completely changed!”
– L.V., Guadalajara, Mexico
“SafeStart concepts have taken my safety awareness to the highest level. More importantly, they’ve made me realise that safety is for life, not just for the workplace.” – B.S., São Paulo, Brazil
SafeStart is a globally recognised safety awareness process that helps organisations create a lasting culture of safety excellence. This course will provide you with practical tools and strategies to drive real change.
Limited seats available – register now!
https://events.offsnet.com/SafeStartTrainerCertificationWorkshop#/
Looking forward to seeing you in Dubai!
Larry Wilson
SafeStart Author and CEO
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 5 February, 2025
- Year: 2025
A record number of exhibitors representing 61 countries have participated in the 26th edition of Intersec, the largest business event in the world that maps the future of security, safety, and fire protection.
The largest edition of the event took up 61,000 sq m of space at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), a 20% increase from the previous year.
Under the auspices of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the event, which ended last month, drew 47,300 visitors from 142 countries and featured state-of-the-art technologies and vital solutions in five major areas: Homeland Security & Policing, Cyber Security, Safety & Health, Fire & Rescue, and Commercial & Perimeter Security. The show's theme was "Mapping the Future of Security, Safety, and Fire Protection."
Among the new features this year was the successful opening of the two-day Intersec Policing Conference, which brought together more than fifty knowledgeable speakers. Discussions covered a wide range of subjects, including the future of road safety, proactive and productive policing, strategic automation in policing, drone operations, and quantum-led crime. Senior law enforcement officials from the Abu Dhabi Police, INTERPOL, the Metropolitan Police, and the UAE Financial Intelligence Unit were among them.
The top Chief Information Security Officers (CISO) in the area were also invited to the CISO Business Briefing, which was successfully launched while examining the main information security trends, threats, and opportunities. The opening keynote speaker was H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity, UAE Government.
The annual awards
The exhibition's ground-breaking collaboration with Ignyte, which resulted in the opening of the Intersec Startup Arena, was another first. It gave startups a chance to present their innovative ideas and solutions to a group of government officials, business executives, and elite investors, opening doors for them to secure investment, mentorship, and strategic alliances.
ASIS International, Firestop Contractors International Association (FCIA), Gallagher, Sharjah Civil Defence, NAFFCO, Abu Dhabi Civil Defence, Nordon, Saudi Sicli, and UXE Security Solutions were among the companies that signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) during the three-day event held by Intersec 2025.
Several industry leaders were honoured at the 4th annual Intersec Awards, which honour people, groups, and organisations for establishing new benchmarks for excellence in vital sectors.
Winners on the evening included Dubai Civil Defense, NAFFCO, Dubai Municipality, Ministry of Interior, Emirates Safety Laboratory LLC, and the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA).
Wajahat Hussain, show manager, Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said, “The team and I are thrilled to have welcomed an unprecedented gathering of industry professionals from around the world. Intersec has once again proven to be the premier platform where global leaders, innovators, and experts converge to exchange knowledge, forge partnerships, and explore cutting-edge advancements that are shaping the future of safety, security, and fire protection.
“Surpassing previous exhibitor records is a testament to Intersec’s growing influence and its pivotal role in driving forward-thinking solutions for a safer, more secure world. This milestone underscores our commitment to fostering collaboration, showcasing pioneering technologies, and setting new benchmarks for excellence in this critically important industry.”
Intersec 2026 will take place from 12 – 14 January 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
- Details
- Madhuri Ramesh
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 29 January, 2025
- Year: 2025
With Storm Éowyn passing through the country, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has been urging the immediate clean-up operation be left with the emergency services and professional operators who have the necessary competence to undertake the work safely
Chainsaw risks
The HSA strongly prefers only trained and competent operators equipped with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) to handle chainsaws, the primary equipment required to remove fallen trees and branches. Some of the key recommendations for using chainsaws include:
- Only experienced personnel who have the necessary training should be allowed to handle a chainsaw.
- Conducting a risk assessment is necessary prior to starting any chainsaw work.
- Wearing the necessary protective gear such as helmets, eye protection, specialist chainsaw gloves and leg protection, and steel-toe boots are mandatory while taking part in clean-up operations.
- Chainsaws need to be appropriately maintained and include functioning chain brakes and sharp blades.
- Operations must be carried out in groups rather than individually.
Kickback is one of the more common causes of serious chainsaw injury. The kickback zone is at the top tip of the chainsaw bar and may occur when the moving chain at the nose or tip of the bar touches an object such as a branch or a log. If this happens, it can cause a rapid upward motion of the bar back towards the operator who may suffer a very serious or fatal injury.
Recommendations for safe use
For the safe use of chainsaw, appropriate training is necessary. Chainsaw courses with various levels of training are available. For example, a basic chainsaw course covering the felling of small trees will be five days in duration. Shorter courses (two days) which only cover chainsaw maintenance and cross cutting of felled timber are also available. However, these do not effectively demonstrate the techniques required for felling trees safely. Therfore, prior to undertaking any trainings, particular training requirements need to be discussed with an accredited chainsaw training provider.
Persons undergoing chainsaw training must be adequately supervised. They should also be closely supervised post training until such time as they are experienced and fully competent. They should always complete a pre-task risk assessment. Similarly, farmers who wish to use a chainsaw for such tasks as clearing fallen branches and pruning trees to maintain clearance for machines on their land should complete full certified chainsaw training. Before attempting even small tasks, farmers must complete a risk assessment to ensure appropriate control measures are put in place.
In case of fallen or storm-damaged trees, the HSA advises personnel to follow certain a code of conduct. These include:
- Approaching fallen trees with caution, particularly those that are entangled with power lines.
- In case of doubt, assume all cables are lve and report to ESB Networks.
If required to work from roofs or elevated structures, HSA urges workers to adhere to the following guidelines:
- Working during extreme weather conditions should be strictly avoided for safety reasons.
- Using proper fall protection equipment, including harnesses and lanyards.
- Ensuring ladders and equipment are secure and placed on stable surfaces.
- Avoiding overreaching or overloading ladders, and having a spotter present whenever possible.
- Engaging qualified professionals for tasks involving complex or hazardous heights.
“If you don’t have the proper training or equipment to safely use a chainsaw, don’t take the risk and instead engage with emergency and professional services," said chief Inspector with the HSA, Mark Cullen. "Farmers in particular may be tempted to deal with fallen trees on their land or on adjoining roads. Personal safety must be the main priority and I strongly urge only those with the necessary skills to undertake work with chainsaws”.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Technology
- Topic: Technology
- Date: 27 January, 2025
- Year: 2025
Florian Combacau, portfolio alignment director at Axis Communications, speakes to Health, Safety and Environment Review about the company’s latest offerings and industry analysis.
Speaking about artificial intelligence and how it can transform the security industry, Combacau said, “Deep learning technologies are the bread and butter of most analytics solutions within the security sector, while newer generative AI technologies are rapidly maturing. There is still a lot of hype in certain areas but real applications of generative AI in the security sector are becoming available. Each step of evolution brings with it a new set of opportunities, but also ethical, legal, and corporate considerations."
More importantly, Combacau is confident that there will be improvement from an ethical perspective.
“Eventually this will enable generative models to be, at least partly, run on cameras with high-quality results. At the same time the models are improving in quality with regards to ethical aspects, bias, hallucinations, and the risk of making the wrong decisions.
Combacau also added that Axis body-worn cameras are designed for versatility, durability, and ease of use, making them ideal for police forces and critical sectors. Key features include seamless integration via an open API, live video streaming, and military-grade hardware for demanding environments. With advanced cybersecurity measures, cost-effective end-to-end solutions, and user-friendly functionality, Axis cameras ensure high-quality performance and secure data management without proprietary lock-ins or recurring fees.
2025 trends
When speaking of key trends and growth opportunities for the security industry in 2025, Combacau said, “Some of the trends we can expect are really just evolutions of those we’ve seen in previous years. An obvious one is the continued interest in how AI will be applied in our sector, and we’ve highlighted some of the new considerations that will need to be addressed moving forwards.
“Regulation is another area of focus for the industry this year. National and regional legislators will once again try to keep pace with technological innovation. AI, cybersecurity, privacy, the need for resilience in critical entities; all these (and more) will be the focus of proposed and new regulation. We haven’t highlighted this as a specific trend, but it’s no less a priority and something every organisation will need to respond to.
“Advances in analytics and AI mean that a higher resolution image will inevitably lead to a better result, whatever the use case. Object recognition will be more accurate and more detailed data (and metadata) created. The drive towards even better image quality has been reignited.
“With this has come opportunities for efficiency as well as effectiveness. A single camera producing much higher image quality can cover as large an area as multiple cameras would have been needed for previously. Higher resolution images also support analytics, for instance in large crowds, busy traffic intersections, or fast-moving production lines."
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 17 December, 2024
- Year: 2024
Farnek, a prominent smart and green facilities management (FM) company based in the UAE, was recently awarded at the "Better Together Awards," where it was given the headline prize for its outstanding health and safety initiatives.
The Expo City Dubai-organised awards honour exceptional individual and group accomplishments in worker welfare (WW) and health and safety (H&S), honouring its employees and contractors who help create a safer and healthier work environment at Expo City Dubai.
Farnek received the flagship honour, the "Better Together Award," which is granted to an organisation that has the finest initiative to promote cooperation and engagement with Expo City Dubai in 2024, demonstrating real-world implementation and measurable outcomes.
“This award recognises Farnek’s longstanding commitment, dedication and consistency, advancing the company’s H&S and WW strategy, which aligns closely with Expo City Dubai’s core values of care, integrity and excellence,” said Ryan Mitchell, Farnek’s head of quality, health, safety, excellence and wellbeing (QHSEW).
In order to increase the calibre and effectiveness of HSE reporting, Mitchell oversaw the Expo City HSE teams and used SAFETEK, a digital safety management technology. In order to create a safer atmosphere for renters and guests, he was able to reduce safety incidents by 21% and increase reporting observations by 38%.
At the awards ceremony, Farnek's Worker Welfare Officer, Mary Grace Besabella, was also acknowledged. She was given the Worker Welfare Impact Award for raising employment, housing, and transportation standards at Expo City Dubai in order to improve worker welfare.
Besabella supported a safe, friendly, and healthy workplace by attending to the needs and expectations of every employee. In order to initiate the reform of the operational structure, she also organised events and promoted health programmes.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial
- Topic: Industrial
- Date: 16 December, 2024
- Year: 2024
In an effort to spur expansion throughout the continent, Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection (Teledyne GFD) has appointed a new vice president of sales and marketing for the Americas.
Gerald V. Sims will assist Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection in further growing its market share in this significant geographic market thanks to his extensive experience in gas utilities and his proven track record of sales leadership.
Over many years, Teledyne GFD has been expanding throughout the Americas. Teledyne Detcon, the company's US manufacturing facility in Cypress, Texas, has been offering industrial-grade gas detectors, control systems, analysers, and wireless technologies to the gas detection market for more than 40 years.
“Gerald will use his expertise and deep industry knowledge to play a pivotal role in maximising our growth potential and enhancing the presence of our product brands across the Americas,” said Thibault Fourlegnie, vice president and general manager, Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection. “We’re excited to see the gains that Gerald can provide, not just for Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection, but also for our customers. After all, an even stronger Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection is beneficial for stakeholders up and down the supply chain, including distributors and end users.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 12 December, 2024
- Year: 2024
The Oman Oil Marketing Company (OOMCO) launched its annual Health, Safety, Environment, and Quality (HSEQ) Week from 8-12 December.
Through important initiatives, awareness workshops, and strategic partnerships, OOMCO engaged employees, stakeholders, and the broader community in a five-day event that showcased the company's commitment to fostering a culture of health and safety.
Brigadier General Engineer Ali bin Saif Al Maqbali, Chief of the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA), presided over a distinguished Kick-Off Ceremony to start the week.
Notable stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Labour, Oman Energy Association (OPAL), and Civil Defence, attended the HSEQ Contractor Forum. This event promoted cooperation in health and safety management, promoted the exchange of ideas, and highlighted best practices.
OOMCO's leadership team travelled to key partners during HSEQ Week in order to coordinate health and safety goals, gather critical input, and strengthen collaborations.
Employees at OOMCO took part in a variety of events aimed at raising awareness and promoting healthy lifestyle choices. These included medical examinations, blood drives, educational campaigns on important subjects including diabetes prevention and breast cancer, and a daily safety quiz. The session "No to Amputation for Diabetic Foot Patients," which focused on the value of early intervention and preventative care for diabetic patients, was one of the most noteworthy efforts.
To increase the influence of its health and safety initiatives outside of the workplace, OOMCO partnered with institutions like the Cancer Association, Oman International Hospital, and the Blood Bank.
Tarik Mohammed Al Junaidi, CEO of OOMCO, said, “Our Annual Health and Safety Week exemplifies our unwavering dedication to safeguarding the health and welfare of our employees, partners, and the community. We strive to exemplify health and safety as essential elements of our operations through such programmes, while cultivating a culture that emphasizes the well-being of all those we serve.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Technology
- Topic: Technology
- Date: 11 December, 2024
- Year: 2024
The IATA Air Cargo Device Assessment Programme was started by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to verify that air cargo tracking devices, data recorders, and sensor-equipped equipment adhere to strict industry safety regulations.
IATA's Recommended Practice 1693, which offers crucial safety guidelines for battery safety and electromagnetic compatibility, is validated by the IATA Air Cargo Device Assessment. Validation data will be available through ONE Source, which gives stakeholders looking for authorised tracking devices a single point of access.
The first product approved by the Air Cargo Device Assessment Programme is THE BOX, a reusable packaging solution made by LivingPackets Group.
Advantages for the entire supply chain
Device manufacturers benefit from increased visibility in the worldwide market, faster access to airline contacts for device authorisation, and a reduction in the need for repetitive documentation, all of which speed up the validation process.
Simplified internal approval procedures, a centralised repository of authorised devices, and safer operations with fewer undeclared gadgets are all advantages for airlines. Better route and carrier selection planning is made possible by the centralised access to authorised device information provided to shippers and forwarders.
Additionally, the programme's overall performance will result in more efficient delivery of shipments that are sensitive to temperature and time, cutting waste and maintaining cargo integrity.
“The fastest-growing segments of air cargo are pharmaceuticals, perishables, electronics, and high-value goods. Shippers rely on various battery-powered electronic devices to monitor these sensitive shipments to ensure their integrity. The IATA Air Cargo Device Assessment will confirm that these devices comply with strict industry safety standards,” said Brendan Sullivan, IATA’s global head of cargo.
"IATA validation is crucial for THE BOX because our customers want to know that our product complies with global standards. Having IATA validate compliance with its strict safety standards makes our product universally acceptable for use across the air cargo industry. That is particularly important for an innovation like THE BOX as it is the first smart reusable packing for use in air cargo. The Air Cargo Device Assessment gives it instant global recognition,” said Denis Mourrain, LivingPackets group COO.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Technology
- Topic: Technology
- Date: 10 December, 2024
- Year: 2024
Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Corporation have introduced the "X-ble Shoulder," a wearable robot designed to enhance efficiency and reduce musculoskeletal strain in industrial settings.
Debuting at Wearable Robot Tech Day in Goyang, South Korea, the X-ble Shoulder is part of a broader initiative to integrate advanced robotics into various industries, including construction, shipbuilding, aviation, and agriculture.
The X-ble Shoulder operates without the need for batteries, utilising a non-powered torque generation system that reduces shoulder load by up to 60% and muscle activity by 30%. Made from lightweight, impact-resistant materials, it prioritises user safety and comfort, featuring modular components, a washable vest, and adjustability for various tasks.
The device can perform up to 700,000 repetitive actions annually, making it ideal for demanding industrial environments.
Two versions are available: a basic model for dynamic tasks and an adjustable version tailored to repetitive work, offering assistive forces of up to 2.9 kgf and 3.7 kgf, respectively. Following extensive trials with 300 workers, Hyundai and Kia incorporated user feedback to refine the product.
Commercialisation plans include initial applications in Hyundai and Kia facilities, with global market expansion to industries such as construction and agriculture by 2026.
Interested businesses can access consulting services through Hyundai’s Robotics LAB to evaluate the X-ble Shoulder’s suitability for their operations.
Production is slated to begin in 2025, with the Robotics LAB also focusing on developing a comprehensive robotics solution for seamless human-robot collaboration.
“The X-ble Shoulder is a wearable robot that leverages the technical capabilities of the Robotics LAB and implements feedback from actual users,” said Dong Jin Hyun, vice president and head of Robotics LAB at Hyundai Motor and Kia. “Going forward, we aim to expand the availability of wearable robots, creating products that work naturally with users to enhance their daily lives. By pushing technological boundaries, we will make these beneficial products accessible to more people.”