Industrial Insights
Industrial Insights
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Industrial Insights
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Europe
- Date: 7 August 2025
- Year: 2025
RoSPA is inviting applications for the next Women in Safety Leadership Programme, taking place on 30 October 2025
Sponsored by L’Oréal and certified by the Institute of Leadership, this free, one-day virtual training course is designed to help women in health and safety explore their leadership potential, strengthen their influence, and lead with authenticity.
It provides a safe, collaborative space where women from diverse industries can explore their leadership potential and develop their ability to influence across organisations.
The course is delivered online via Zoom, making it accessible to participants around the world (time zones permitting) and easy to fit into busy schedules. The interactive sessions include group discussions, breakout activities, and plenty of opportunities to ask questions, share experiences, and learn from peers in a supportive environment.
Approved by the Institute of Leadership, this programme focuses not just on health and safety, but on authentic leadership – helping women lead in ways that reflect their values and strengths.
This programme is ideal for:
• Women business owners, directors and senior executives
• Women with leadership responsibilities in any sector or organisation
• Health and safety professionals seeking to progress to more senior or strategic roles
RosPA particularly welcome applications from women who are underrepresented in health and safety leadership.
Following the training, each participant will be matched with a personal mentor to support their continued leadership journey.
“With women still making up fewer than 30% of professionals in occupational safety and health, our mentoring programme is designed to help close the gap and build lasting confidence,” says Rospa. “It’s not just about skills – it’s about belief.”
For further information, see the website here
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Industrial Insights
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 6 August 2025
- Year: 2025
Aqil Abdul Ali Bu Hussain, Assistant Undersecretary for Labor Relations at Bahrain’s Ministry of Labor, has confirmed 99.96% compliance to date with the midday work ban
In common with its Gulf neighbours, Bahrain prohibits outdoor work at the hottest time of day in the summer months – in Bahrain’s case from 12 to 4pm from 15 June to 15 September – to protect workers from the dangers of heat stress. Violators are subject to imprisonment for up to three months and fines ranging from BD500 to BD1,000, or either penalty. The ministry has also opened a hotline for members of the public to report any violations observed during the midday work ban period.
The Assistant Undersecretary attributed the high level of compliance to the effective partnership between the Ministry and employers in ensuring a safe and healthy work environment, and embodies the Kingdom of Bahrain's commitment to international labour standards ensuring the rights and safety of workers. Prior to the ban taking effect, the Ministry held awareness workshops with occupational safety officers and supervisors from private sector establishments, and published educational materials through its online platforms to inform workers about the risks of heat stress and midday sun exposure.
The Assistant Undersecretary said that the Ministry’s inspection team identified just six violations during the two months following the midday work ban taking effect, affecting 12 workers, after the team carried out 17,605 inspection visits. He praised the level of awareness among employers and workers of the importance of adhering to the decision, which contributes to protecting workers from summer risks and diseases, and raising work efficiency and productivity. He also stressed that the Ministry continues to enhance its advice through its electronic platforms regarding the danger of heat stress and exposure to direct sunlight at noon, to improve occupational health and safety in workplaces.
The Assistant Undersecretary pointed out that the Kingdom of Bahrain continues to implement best practices and occupational health and safety requirements to protect workers from occupational injuries during this time of high temperatures and humidity.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 6 August, 2025
- Year: 2025
Cold chain logistics is among the world’s fastest-growing industries, expected to exceed US$420bn this year.
This rapid expansion is driven by increased demand for faster delivery, product availability, and gear capable of handling extreme conditions.
Ergodyne is stepping up to meet that demand with a growing range of cold storage solutions. The worksite safety innovator has just released its warmest freezer jacket yet, along with new thermal impact gloves and merino blend socks, completing a comprehensive head-to-toe PPE system for cold storage and sub-zero work environments.
“We’ve built this collection directly with the folks who do it, day in and day out,” said Ergodyne product manager, Claudia Weber. Weber credits the swift uptake by major cold chain operators to her team’s close collaboration with end users. “I think it’s resonating because they know it was not only made for them (the workers), but with them, too.”
Ergodyne’s design process is shaped by field testing, feedback loops, and on-site observations. Small but significant design details, such as exterior sizing labels on jackets, are direct results of this approach—making gear selection faster and more efficient for workers.
Keeping PPE in good condition
“Seems like not a huge deal,” said Weber. “But to the workers sifting through the gear every day to find the right size, it is.”
Yet, as demand for cold storage PPE grows, so does uncertainty around a key issue: what temperature ratings really mean.
"There's a lot of misinformation—and even more misunderstanding—about what temperature ratings truly represent," said Ergodyne president, Greg Schrab. “We’re committed to educating our users and helping them make informed decisions based on the best information available, not assumptions.”
In response, Ergodyne has released a new guide clarifying the science behind temperature ratings, how they’re tested, what they indicate, and how factors such as physical activity and exposure time must be considered alongside the ratings themselves.
“Just like any PPE, cold storage crews need the proper information about their thermal gear to make the right choice for their application,” Schrab continued. “That’s why we’ve always been as serious about education as we are about innovation.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 5 August, 2025
- Year: 2025
The Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre - Abu Dhabi (ADCMC) has activated its Coordination and Monitoring Centre in Al Ain region to bolster the emirate’s emergency preparedness and response capabilities, while strengthening coordination with strategic partners and various stakeholders.
The activation of Al Ain Centre forms a key pillar of ADCMC’s strategic growth plan to expand its geographic reach and field coordination capabilities.
As a critical supporting infrastructure to the main operations centre in Abu Dhabi, the new centre will enable faster response times and more effective, localised decision-making during emergencies.
H.E. Dr. Abdulla Hamarain Al Dhaheri, Executive Director of the Response and Recovery Sector, ADCMC, said, “The launch of the Coordination and Monitoring Centre in Al Ain region marks a key strategic milestone in reinforcing the emirate’s crisis preparedness framework. It aligns with the Abu Dhabi government’s vision of developing an integrated, advanced and effective emergency management system. Our approach is proactive, built on close collaboration with key stakeholders to ensure the highest levels of field coordination and readiness for all possible scenarios.”
H.E. noted that Al Ain Coordination Centre is a key component of a wider strategy to enhance institutional resilience and accelerate response capabilities, emphasising that effective field coordination is the cornerstone of any successful emergency management system.
“The new centre will enhance field capabilities in Al Ain and ensure round-the-clock readiness for any emergency,” H.H. Al Dhaheri added.
ADCMC continues to play a pivotal role in reinforcing the emirate’s preparedness for all forms of emergencies, crises and disasters.
It is responsible for developing and overseeing the implementation of comprehensive emergency management policies, strategies, and plans, in close collaboration with local authorities and strategic partners.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 4 August 2025
- Year: 2025
Intersec Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom’s leading platform for security, safety, and fire protection, is set to host a landmark collaboration with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) as part of its Fire Protection and Technology Summit.
Established in 1896, the NFPA is a global nonprofit committed to reducing fire-related fatalities, injuries, and economic loss.
It develops over 300 widely adopted codes and standards and plays a key role in fire safety education, training, and research.
On 30 September, the association will take centre stage with a dedicated “NFPA Day”, offering in-depth technical sessions under themes such as ‘Protecting GIGA Developments and Large-Scale Events in the Kingdom’, ‘Building Human Capital in Fire Protection’, and ‘Navigating New Fire Safety Regulations and Compliance’.
The sessions, curated by NFPA and chaired by Zahi Daher, country manager for international business development in Saudi Arabia, will convene government officials, industry leaders, and stakeholders to discuss the evolving fire protection landscape in the Kingdom.
“The NFPA Day at Intersec Saudi Arabia is more than just a series of sessions - it's a dynamic platform for exchanging knowledge, building local expertise, and fostering meaningful collaboration between industry leaders, government authorities, and safety professionals. Our goal is to elevate fire protection standards across the Kingdom, laying the foundation for safer communities today and for generations to come,” said Daher.
NFPA Day will place strong emphasis on the importance of fire codes and standards in supporting safety innovation, regulatory compliance, and cross-sector collaboration.
Attendees will gain practical insights into how NFPA’s training and certification programmes can be aligned with Saudi Arabia’s unique needs.
The day will conclude with a networking session, fostering connections and partnerships to advance fire and life safety across the Kingdom.
Key topics
Running from 29 September - 1 October at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre (RICEC), Intersec Saudi Arabia will also explore the broader future of emergency response.
Topics include smart firefighting in urban environments, HAZMAT response, high-rise rescues, and cross-border disaster management.
Opening day highlights include a panel on the use of artificial intelligence and IoT in fire detection and prevention, as well as a session examining fire safety strategies for mega events such as the Hajj.
The summit will also present advanced fire safety systems being developed for Saudi Arabia’s space and aerospace sectors.
On the last day, it will spotlight women transforming the fire safety sector and focus on capacity-building for the next generation of professionals.
Jim Pauley, president and CEO of NFPA, said, “As Saudi Arabia undergoes rapid transformation aligned with Vision 2030, integrating internationally recognised fire and life safety standards is more vital than ever. NFPA is pleased to support the Kingdom by providing the knowledge, resources, and global expertise needed to safeguard lives, property, and infrastructure. We are honoured to be part of Intersec Saudi Arabia, where we can engage directly with local stakeholders and help drive meaningful progress in fire safety.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 1 August 2025
- Year: 2025
Dubai Municipality has been awarded United Arab Emirates Country Winner title at the 2025 International Safety Awards, hosted by the British Safety Council.
Widely regarded as one of the highest global honours in occupational health and safety, the award recognises outstanding organisations that prioritise safe, healthy, and sustainable work environments.
Selected from hundreds of entries worldwide (including institutions across the UK, Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East) Dubai Municipality stands among just 10 organisations globally to receive the coveted Country Winner designation this year. The recognition cements its status as a regional leader in health and safety excellence.
The award reflects Dubai Municipality’s comprehensive and proactive approach to managing occupational health and safety risks. The organisation was praised for its implementation of internationally recognised management systems, progressive workplace policies, and sustained efforts to protect employee wellbeing. Judges highlighted its strategic focus on minimising risks and continuously improving safety outcomes across its diverse operations.
Training and other programmes
Key to the Municipality’s success was its integration of safety into all levels of decision-making. Its approach includes a strong emphasis on innovation, with investments in smart technologies that monitor and manage workplace hazards in real time. This includes predictive analytics for risk prevention, digital tools for inspection and reporting, and continuous employee engagement through interactive safety platforms.
In addition to reducing incidents and injuries, the Municipality has worked to foster a strong safety culture throughout its workforce. Education and training programmes, supported by leadership at all levels, have played a central role in embedding a mindset of shared responsibility. The Council also recognised the organisation’s initiatives to promote mental health and wellbeing, making it a holistic model for occupational safety management.
This latest recognition aligns with Dubai’s broader vision to set global benchmarks in urban excellence. As the city continues to invest in sustainable growth and high-performance public services, the safety and wellbeing of its workforce remains a top priority. Dubai Municipality’s achievement offers a clear example of how forward-thinking governance, strategic investment, and technology can combine to create world-class standards in health and safety.
Dr Naseem Mohammed Rafee, CEO of the Environment, Health, and Safety Agency at Dubai Municipality, said, “This achievement reflects Dubai Municipality’s unwavering commitment to fostering a sustainable preventive culture and managing risk in line with international best practices. It supports our vision of making Dubai a global benchmark for liveability, with a world-class health and food safety ecosystem. The award affirms our ongoing efforts to apply occupational safety models that reflect the highest global standards.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 31 July 2025
- Year: 2025
Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba), the world’s largest aluminium smelter on a single site, has reached a significant safety milestone by recording 38 million safe working hours without a Lost Time Injury (LTI) as of 31 July 2025.
This achievement reaffirms Alba’s status as a regional and global benchmark for industrial safety and highlights its strong safety culture and proactive risk management framework.
The company’s comprehensive health and safety initiatives are designed not only to prevent incidents but also to promote a culture of accountability and continuous improvement among employees and contractors alike.
As temperatures peak this summer, Alba is doubling down on its efforts to protect its workforce from heat-related risks. The company is on track to complete its 9th consecutive summer season without a single heat-related illness or injury. According to a statement, this achievement is a testament to its robust awareness campaigns, hydration programmes, and continuous monitoring of working conditions.
Through consistent performance and forward-looking safety strategies, Alba continues to set a high standard for occupational health and safety across the region’s heavy industries.
Ali Al Baqali, chief executive officer of Alba, said, “This tremendous achievement of 38 million safe working hours without LTI is a testament to the exceptional commitment of every Albawee at Alba. It demonstrates the strength of our 'Safety First' culture and our pursuit of zero harm.
The safety of our people is non-negotiable, and this milestone reinforces our dedication to protecting our workforce, the true champions of our safety journey.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 30 July 2025
- Year: 2025
NEBOSH has been named a finalist in three categories at the 2025 FAB Qualifications and Assessment Excellence Awards, a recognition of its growing influence on global education and skills development in occupational health and safety.
The awards, organised by the Federation of Awarding Bodies (FAB), celebrate exceptional contributions across the UK's qualifications and assessment sector. NEBOSH’s nominations span individual and organisational achievements, highlighting its impact both locally and internationally.
In the Learner of the Year – Champion of Qualifications & Assessment category, Partington Oswald Mtatabikwa has been shortlisted. A survivor of a severe mining accident, Partington holds two NEBOSH qualifications and has used his personal experience to drive change in workplace safety. Since beginning his NEBOSH journey in 2022, he has inspired tens of thousands across South Africa and beyond, using storytelling and advocacy to encourage others to pursue formal safety training and embrace a culture of responsibility.
“This gesture is priceless and has challenged me to continue learning even more. I have realised that life never limits us, but we limit ourselves,” said Mtatabikwa. “We can keep on growing as long as we still want to, but if we stop growing, we start dying. I wish I had known this secret when I was much younger. However, there is no better time to start than the present, as long as we don't procrastinate.
“Above all, my nomination and shortlisting serve as a testament that disability is not inability, and I hope my journey inspires others to continue pushing despite all odds. Don't let anyone define your limits; define them yourself.”
NEBOSH Chief Quality Officer Dee Arp is a finalist for the Special Recognition Award, which honours individuals who have had a lasting impact within their organisation and the wider education and skills sector. With over 20 years of leadership at NEBOSH, Dee has helped shape the international landscape of health and safety education. As President of the International Network of Safety and Health Practitioner Organisations (INSHPO), she continues to influence policy and champion accessible, high-quality learning opportunities across the industry.
“I am honoured to be a finalist in the Special Recognition category of the FAB Awards. My journey has only been possible because of the amazing people that have shared it, from whom I have learnt and continue to learn from, and who share my passion for lifelong learning and empowering people to be their best self,” said Arp.
NEBOSH itself has been shortlisted for the International Export of Qualifications Award, recognising its success in delivering UK qualifications globally. Today, 75% of NEBOSH learners are based outside the UK. The organisation has built a robust international network, working with Learning Partners in more than 50 countries, and forging strategic relationships with industry bodies. Tailored qualifications such as the International General Certificate have contributed to strong uptake in key markets including India, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia.
Now in its tenth year, the FAB Awards will announce winners at a ceremony in Milton Keynes on 27 November 2025.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 29 July 2025
- Year: 2025
The global eye protection equipment market is projected to grow from an estimated US$1.57bn in 2024 to US$2.66bn by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 6.1% between 2025 and 2033.
These predictions, made by Grand View Research, show that the growth is largely fuelled by increasing awareness of workplace safety and the enforcement of stricter occupational health regulations across sectors.
A surge in demand from construction, manufacturing, and oil & gas industries is significantly contributing to market expansion. The growing need to prevent eye injuries in hazardous environments has led to the widespread use of safety glasses and goggles. Technological improvements in design and comfort are also encouraging wider adoption.
Emerging markets are playing a vital role in shaping the future of this industry. Industrialisation and stronger safety compliance in developing countries are creating new growth avenues. Additionally, rising investments in healthcare and pharmaceuticals are driving demand for specialised protective eyewear. The trend towards product customisation and the integration of smart features is further expanding the market's potential, supported by greater accessibility through e-commerce platforms.
However, high costs associated with advanced protective eyewear may limit uptake, especially among small and medium enterprises. In some regions, a lack of awareness or weak enforcement of safety standards can hinder adoption. Other challenges include resistance to wearing protective gear and the proliferation of low-quality counterfeit products.
Product segmentation
Safety glasses held the largest market share at 64.1% in 2024, thanks to their affordability, comfort, and compliance with safety standards. Commonly used in sectors such as construction, transportation, and manufacturing, they protect against impact, dust, and debris. Prescription and anti-fog variants are increasingly popular due to their practicality.
Goggles, meanwhile, are expected to register the fastest growth during the forecast period. Their sealed design offers superior protection in high-risk environments, including laboratories, healthcare facilities, and chemical handling sites. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated their adoption in medical and research applications, and improvements in comfort and ventilation are helping drive continued usage.
UAE leads the way
The manufacturing sector led global demand in 2024, accounting for a 22% revenue share. This is attributed to the high incidence of eye injuries in metalworking, welding, and manual assembly processes. Safety glasses and goggles remain essential for workers exposed to sparks, flying particles, and chemicals.
In the Middle East and Africa, the eye protection market is expanding steadily, driven by large-scale oil & gas projects, industrialisation, and ongoing construction activity. Governments are investing in infrastructure development and introducing new safety regulations, especially in countries like the UAE and South Africa.
In the UAE, demand for protective eyewear is growing as the country pushes forward with major construction and energy projects. Strong occupational health and safety mandates are enforcing compliance across sectors. The presence of international PPE brands and regional distributors is also helping improve product availability and market penetration.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 28 July 2025
- Year: 2025
In a groundbreaking initiative, the International Labour Organization (ILO) brought together youth voices to champion occupational safety and health (OSH) at EXPO 2025 in Osaka, Kansai, Japan.
The inaugural "Youth Congress" pitch contest, held on 17 July 2025, featured eight student teams from across the globe presenting innovative ideas to improve workplace safety. Among the special guests were Japanese celebrities Yoko Oginome and Aki Mukai, who joined to support the cause.
Mahidol University of Thailand took home the top prize for its app designed to safeguard the rights and safety of delivery drivers. Brigham Young University (USA) and the University of Occupational and Environmental Health Japan were also recognised for their creative contributions to OSH.
The winning concepts are set to be implemented by companies, underscoring the real-world impact of youth-driven ideas. The pitch contest concluded a three-year journey involving more than 200 students from 25 institutions across eight countries. Beginning in 2024, participants attended seminars and mentoring sessions on workplace safety, culminating in the selection of eight finalists whose Calls to Action were presented in Osaka.
The Youth Congress was a key feature of the EXPO 2025 Days on Safety, Health & Well-being for All, hosted under the Global Initiative for Safety, Health and Well-being (GISHW). Inspired by the ILO’s 2022 resolution recognising a safe and healthy working environment as a Fundamental Principle and Right at Work, the event called on young people, who often face heightened OSH risks, to shape safer, more inclusive workplaces in the digital age.
Mahidol University team members Nahataichanok Pathomrojsakul and Sunita Songjaroen expressed the motivation behind their proposal stating, "We chose this theme because delivery drivers face high risks to accidents and health problems under the overwhelming pressure from customer reviews. They often lack insurance and protective measures."
"The creativity of proposals and level of commitment by all the young people taking part has been outstanding," said Yuka Ujita, ILO senior specialist for occupational safety and health. "Their ideas bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to today’s workplace challenges, especially in the context of digital transformation, climate change and the demographic transition. These young voices have to much to offer and must be heard."
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 25 July 2025
- Year: 2025
Honeywell has acquired the Li-ion Tamer business from Nexceris, strengthening its fire and life safety portfolio with a proven off-gas detection technology that identifies early signs of thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries.
The acquisition, built on a five-year partnership with Nexceris, enhances Honeywell’s Building Automation segment and is expected to be immediately accretive.
As global demand for lithium-ion batteries surges, projected to exceed US$400bn by 2030, safety solutions like Li-ion Tamer are increasingly vital.
The technology detects off-gassing up to 30 minutes before thermal runaway, giving operators time to prevent fires and limit system damage. It is already trusted by major battery OEMs worldwide.
The acquisition brings more than 30 global patents into Honeywell’s ecosystem and will integrate with the company’s existing safety offerings, including VESDA early smoke detection and Connected Life Safety Services on the Honeywell Forge IoT platform.
This move complements Honeywell’s broader strategy of focused growth, portfolio simplification, and recent acquisitions totalling US$13.5bn.
"As lithium-ion battery use grows rapidly across data centers, EV infrastructure, and grid-scale energy storage, the risk of fire is increasing in parallel," said Billal Hammoud, president and CEO of Honeywell's Building Automation segment.
"Li-ion Tamer's early warning technology has been revolutionary for our customers and partners over the last five years. Building on our legacy partnership, the acquisition of this product suite will position Honeywell as a leader in early gas detection and battery fire prevention. We expect this tuck-in acquisition to further bolster growth of our fire detection business."
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 24 July 2025
- Year: 2025
EHC Investment, through its safety-focused subsidiary Emirates International Firefighting (EIFF), has acquired 100% of Tamouh Fire and Safety (Tamouh), a leading fire protection solutions provider based in Abu Dhabi.
The acquisition reinforces EHC’s commitment to enhancing the UAE’s safety infrastructure and expanding its footprint in the fire and life-safety sector. It also supports the company’s long-term vision to integrate essential services under one umbrella, combining gas distribution, smart technologies, and fire protection systems.
Tamouh brings a robust track record in designing, installing and maintaining fire protection systems, along with emergency response services. Its adherence to international safety standards and use of advanced technologies have earned it the trust of residential, commercial and government clients across Abu Dhabi.
The deal complements EHC’s existing services, which already cater to more than 100,000 clients, particularly in the gas distribution space. With Tamouh now part of its portfolio, EHC aims to offer fully integrated safety and infrastructure solutions for both residential and industrial customers.
This move aligns with EHC’s broader strategy to invest in critical service providers that strengthen national resilience, support economic diversification, and contribute to the UAE’s long-term development goals. The acquisition will also enable both entities to scale their offerings across the region, while positioning the UAE as a leader in fire safety infrastructure.
Ali Al Gebely, managing director of EHC, commented, “Our acquisition of Tamouh demonstrates EHC’s unwavering commitment to the UAE’s development agenda. We aim to support the nation’s rapid growth by elevating industry benchmarks, modernizing safety infrastructure, and delivering dependable fire protection services tailored to community needs.”