Industrial Insights
Industrial Insights
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial
- Topic: Industrial
- Date: 26 November, 2024
- Year: 2024
Cannon Artes is constructing an advanced wastewater treatment and water reuse plant within one of the largest petrochemical complexes in the Middle East.
The facility, designed to support the water recovery requirements of a major polyolefin plant in Qatar, will process up to 25,000 cubic metres of effluent and cooling-tower-blow-down water daily. With a recovery capacity of 780 cubic metres per hour, the plant significantly reduces discharge rates, achieving nearly 80% water reuse.
This far exceeds regulatory standards. The facility is part of a nearly US$2bn project to establish a new polyethylene plant. The plant, designed with two polymerisation units and an annual capacity of nearly 2 million tons, incorporates advanced membrane technologies to manage industrial wastewater and cooling water blowdown.
Industrial effluents are treated using Cannon Artes’ proprietary EmbioArt Membrane BioReactor (MBR), while cooling water blowdown is processed with ultrafiltration (UF) and reverse osmosis (RO) technologies. The facility has a total treatment capacity of approximately 1,000 cubic metres per hour.
The project also includes a 600 cubic metre-per-hour remineralisation plant, equipped with six advanced calcite filters. This system increases pH and reduces the corrosivity of recovered water, setting a new benchmark for industrial remineralisation technology.
Sustainable operations
The Qatar project highlights Cannon Artes’ capability to execute large-scale, complex contracts. The company handled every aspect, from process design to procurement, manufacturing, assembly, testing, and delivery. All components were customised to meet client specifications, integrating cutting-edge technologies like EmbioArt MBR, UF, and RO for maximum efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Construction commenced in August 2024, with infrastructure expected to be completed within six months by early 2025. Full mechanical completion is slated for Q4 2025, demonstrating an impressive timeline given the project's complexity.
With projects delivered in more than 80 countries, the company has provided customised solutions to industries including oil and gas, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and food and beverage, solidifying its reputation for excellence in industrial water management.
“Cannon Artes was chosen as the supplier of choice earlier this year, due to our proven ability to deliver large-scale and complex industrial wastewater treatment solutions that meet the highest environmental and efficiency standards,” said Alessio Liati, sales director at Cannon Artes. “To give an idea of the project’s scale, the water treatment plant alone spans an area comparable to three football fields, with more than 1,600 reverse osmosis membranes, 360 ultrafiltration modules, and over 17,000 sqm of active MBR membrane surface.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 25 November, 2024
- Year: 2024
Ryan Mitchell, Farnek's head of Quality, Health, Safety, Excellence, and Wellbeing (QHSEW), spoke on day two of the annual HSE MENA Forum, held at Le Meridien Hotel & Conference Centre, Dubai, on 13 November.
Farnek, a leading UAE-based smart and green facilities management company, shared insights on leveraging technology to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
The forum, which focuses on advancing health, safety, and environmental practices in critical industries like oil and gas, construction, and infrastructure, featured five sessions addressing compliance, risk management, corporate culture, and sustainability.
Mitchell’s session, ‘Fast-tracking Technology Through Revolutionising Safety and Efficiency’, highlighted the role of artificial intelligence and predictive tools in improving workplace safety and productivity. He discussed how embracing digital solutions could transform key HSE processes, driving compliance and risk reduction across industries.
The event provided a platform for industry leaders to explore emerging technologies and strategies, aligning HSE practices with sustainability and efficiency goals in an evolving industrial landscape.
“Incorporating digital HSE solutions offers a route to a safer workplace, augmented compliance, fewer incidents, and heightened operational efficiency. However, prudent planning and implementation, grounded in a profound understanding of organisational requirements and challenges, are vital prerequisites for success,” said Mitchell.
One such solution SAFETEK, which has been developed in-house by Farnek group company HITEK, is a digital safety management tool with the power of automation, which supports organisations that are trying to move from reactive to a more predictive approach.
“Our cloud and mobility-based solution has been built specifically to digitalise reporting, to work towards a safer workplace. SAFETEK improves reporting times and data analysis to provide insights for preventative action,” said Mitchell.
“This reduces downtime and ensures business continuity, which can lead to cost savings for organisations through reduced incidents, better resource allocation, improved efficiency and ultimately, a safer working environment,” added Mitchell.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial
- Topic: Industrial
- Date: 22 November, 2024
- Year: 2024
Following the launch of the Oil & Gas Decarbonization Charter (OGDC) at COP28, oil and gas companies are accelerating efforts to track, monitor and control their methane emissions
Eni has been awarded “Gold Standard reporting” of the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0) for its commitment to reporting emissions at the highest data quality levels. OGMP 2.0 is an initiative of the United Nations Environment Programme’s International Methane Emissions Observatory, aimed at setting the global standard for methane accountability and transparency in the oil and gas sector as a necessary step to effectively track and target mitigation with measurement-based data. Eni has been awarded “Gold Standard reporting” for having effectively reached highest data quality levels.
Eni has set itself the goal to reach near zero methane emissions by 2030, in line with the OGDC objectives, and has more than halved methane emissions between 2018 and 2023. Eni’s Upstream methane intensity of 0.06% in 2023 places the company among the leaders in the sector. A founding member of the UNEP Oil & Gas Methane Partnership (OGMP), the Oil and Gas Climate Initiative (OGCI) and Methane Guiding Principles (MGP), the company is signatory to the OGDC as well as the Global Flaring and Methane Reduction trust fund (GFMR), an initiative launched by the World Bank to support governments and operators in developing countries to eliminate routine flaring and reduce methane emissions from the O&G sector to near zero by 2030. Eni has also signed collaboration agreements with National Oil Companies (NOCs) aimed at sharing its industry-leading experience in methane management to enable methane reduction across the sector.
Meanwhile TotalEnergies, which is also aiming for near-zero methane emissions by 2030, has announced that the company is going a step further in the monitoring and reduction of its methane emissions with the deployment of continuous, real-time detection equipment at all of its operated Upstream sites, enabling real-time identification of methane emissions, both fugitive and stationary, and immediate corrective actions to stop them. This continuous detection plan will be fully implemented by end-2025 and will use existing and proven technologies such as loT2 sensors, InfraRed cameras, flowmeters and Predictive Emissions Monitoring Systems on combustion sources.
The company will meet as soon as this year its target to reduce emissions by 50% compared to 2020, a year ahead of plan as a result of numerous initiatives, including the successful deployment of its AUSEA drone campaigns.
“Slashing methane emissions is a short-term priority to contribute to the fight against climate change. Continuous, real-time detection will enable our operators to act in an even more decisive manner in order to reduce our methane emissions and to repair leaks to achieve our near-zero methane emissions ambition. As a champion of the Oil & Gas Decarbonization Charter (OGDC), I am proud that TotalEnergies is leading the way in deploying such equipment at large scale and we will continue to work with the industry to share best practices in measuring and fighting methane emissions”, said Patrick Pouyanné, chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies.
See also https://oilreviewmiddleeast.com/energy-transition/positive-progress-towards-ogdc-goals
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- News
- Topic: Events
- Date: 21 November, 2024
- Year: 2024
The International Code Council (ICC) is participating in Big 5 Global, held from 26–29 November, showcasing its innovative solutions for building safety, sustainability, and resilience.
The organisation is contributing to critical industry conversations through its participation in a panel discussion titled "The Path to Zero: Energy Efficiency in HVAC Systems and Sustainable Construction.”
Representing ICC, Mohamed Amer, regional director of operations for the MENA region, will provide insights into achieving net-zero energy goals by integrating modern building codes with advanced technologies.
The session will explore cutting-edge HVAC innovations and strategies to enhance energy efficiency, aligning with regional sustainability objectives.
Attendees will have the opportunity to explore ICC’s suite of services, including code development, product testing, certification, training, and consulting. These solutions are designed to help stakeholders improve compliance and safety standards, fostering long-term benefits for the construction sector.
The organisation is also strengthening collaborations across the MENA region, partnering with architects, consultants, and regulatory authorities to promote sustainable, resilient, and energy-efficient construction.
Amer said, “Big 5 Global offers a critical platform to showcase our services and contribute directly to the evolution of sustainable building practices in the MENA region. Through our service offerings, we help our partners build safer and more energy-efficient structures that align with the regional sustainability goals.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 20 November, 2024
- Year: 2024
Abu Dhabi-based AIQ, a pioneer in artificial intelligence solutions for the energy industry, has entered into a strategic partnership with Kent, a global leader in engineering and digital services.
The collaboration, unveiled at ADIPEC 2024, aims to push the boundaries of engineering optimisation and digital transformation in the energy sector.
This partnership combines AIQ’s AI technology with Kent’s expertise in digital engineering and project execution to deliver innovative, efficient, and sustainable solutions.
Key areas of focus include the development of an AI-powered platform to optimise Front-End Engineering and Design (FEED), enhancing the productivity and capabilities of engineering teams.
The agreement also prioritises the exploration of autonomous operations, digital twin technologies for advanced asset management, and applications aimed at improving health, safety, and environmental standards.
Magzhan Kenesbai, acting managing director of AIQ, commented, “AIQ is at a pivotal stage in its development as we seek to expand our capabilities and geographies of operation. Collaborating with an established engineering and solutions provider like Kent will allow us to accelerate the scale and delivery of our transformational AI solutions as we progress autonomous and intelligent systems across the entire energy value chain.”
Tush Doshi, chief operating officer at Kent, said, “Working with AIQ allows us to combine our engineering and project management expertise with cutting-edge AI technology to address some of the most pressing challenges in the energy sector. We are committed to delivering solutions that not only meet today’s demands but also pave the way for a more resilient, sustainable, and digitally driven future. Together, we can create innovative solutions that make a real impact for our clients and the industry.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Fire Safety
- Topic: Fire Safety
- Date: 19 November, 2024
- Year: 2024
The third edition of SIBEC, powered by SIBCA, a leading provider of fire, life safety, and ICT solutions, successfully concluded in Abu Dhabi from 13–15 November 2024.
This year’s event, themed ‘Innovation That Keeps You Safe,’ highlighted the critical role of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies in advancing fire and life safety across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
Drawing a record number of participants, the two-day event convened regional and global experts to explore emerging trends in sectors such as building management systems (BMS), extra-low voltage (ELV), audiovisual (AV), HVAC, lighting, and ICT.
A standout announcement during SIBEC was SIBCA’s launch of the Trainovation Fire and Safety Training Academy in Abu Dhabi.
Approved under the NFPA Network, the academy is set to offer professional training on fire protection, building safety, electrical hazards, and industrial safety.
Courses will be delivered by certified instructors, providing practitioners with up-to-date knowledge of NFPA codes and standards to enhance safety practices in the region.
“We would like to thank everyone involved in making the third edition of SIBEC a resounding success. More than just a conference, SIBEC provides attendees with an unparalleled chance to forge connections, pave the way for meaningful partnerships, and directly experience the latest high-quality products and services on the market, all in the interest of improving fire and life safety,” said Ibrahim Lari, Chairman & CEO of SIBCA.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- ESG
- Topic: ESG
- Date: 18 November, 2024
- Year: 2024
Blackline Safety, a provider of connected safety technology, has published a whitepaper titled Navigating Radiation Risks: Key Concepts for Protecting Workers and Responders.
The document helps fire-hazmat teams and first responders better understand and mitigate radiation exposure, ensuring the safety of workers, the public, and the environment.
It outlines critical concepts about radiation, starting with its classification into four main categories: alpha, beta, neutrons, and electromagnetic waves (gamma rays). It also distinguishes between non-ionizing radiation, which is generally less harmful, and ionising (nuclear) radiation, which poses greater health risks. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effective risk response.
Radiation sources are categorised into two types: naturally occurring radioactive materials, present in the air, food, and water, and artificial sources, such as medical imaging, nuclear energy, and weapons. Each source has different effects on the body, making tailored responses essential. Additionally, the paper highlights how radiation is measured differently across regions.
In the U.S., it is expressed in millirems (mrem) per year, while internationally, millisieverts (mSv) are used. Familiarity with these units is vital for accurately assessing health impacts.
Robust safety protocols
Gamma radiation presents unique challenges as it is undetectable by human senses. Detection technologies are essential to identify its presence and implement appropriate safety measures. Blackline Safety emphasises that gamma radiation, while present in small natural doses in the environment, becomes a severe health hazard at higher exposure levels. Effective radiation safety plans must prioritise three core principles: time, distance, and shielding.
Advanced technologies, such as Blackline Safety’s EXO 8 Gamma area monitor, play a pivotal role in implementing these principles. The EXO 8 Gamma can detect up to eight gases alongside gamma radiation and connects directly to the cloud, offering enhanced real-time monitoring and response capabilities.
“For those on the front line, such as first responders, hazmat teams, and workers in industrial fields like mining and oil and gas, there’s an increased risk of accidental exposure to dangerous levels of radiation,” said Christine Gillies, chief product and marketing officer at Blackline Safety. “Quick thinking and robust emergency protocols are essential to ensure worker and community safety.”
“This whitepaper responds to a growing industry need to educate workers on the different types of radiation, early detection strategies, and approaches to address the broad spectrum of radiation risks, faster and smarter,” she said.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 15 November, 2024
- Year: 2024
The HSE MENA 2024 conference, held on 12-13 November, convened health, safety, and environment professionals in Dubai for a forward-thinking exploration of sustainability, organisational safety, and technological advancements in HSE.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dubai, UAE: The two-day event, held at Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, brought together industry leaders, experts, and innovators to share insights and strategies aimed at enhancing workplace safety, resilience, and sustainability across the Middle East.
The conference opened with a presentation on leadership in sustainability by Dr. Rashed Mohammed Karkain, sustainable development expert at the Sustainable Development Research and Training Institute, who highlighted the necessity of environmental sustainability and global equity in driving organisational and societal progress.
Sessions on the first day focused on proactive safety governance, with insights from Thomas Meier, Executive Consultant at Krause Bell Group, who highlighted how organisations can develop stronger Serious Injury and Fatality (SIF) prevention strategies. Delegates were introduced to cutting-edge strategies for incident prevention through AI and data insights by Hussain Suliman Rasul, senior solutions consultant at Enablon, showcasing how digital tools empower proactive safety practices.
Using AI for hazard identification
Day two expanded on themes of resilience and innovation, featuring sessions on emergency preparedness and leveraging AI in health surveillance.
A standout panel explored the integration of advanced technologies into personal protective equipment and predictive analytics for transforming incident management and operational optimisation. Lt Cdr Mahendra Hakde, founder and managing director of CUDE Analyser, and Ryan Mitchell, head of QHSEW at Farnek Services, provided insights into applying smart infrastructure and digital tools for proactive hazard identification and cost efficiency.
Key discussions also examined managing psychosocial hazards, with Sultan Karrani, senior engineer at ADNOC, addressing the mitigation of fatigue and stress to enhance workforce well-being and productivity.
Closing sessions delved into fostering a strong safety culture and driving social sustainability through comprehensive assessments and governance frameworks, led by Maged Elkassaby, IOSH chartered member and business assurance representative.
Networking breaks and interactive panel discussions enabled delegates to connect with peers, share best practices, and explore the latest HSE technologies in the exhibit hall.
HSE MENA 2024 stood out for its focus on innovation and collaboration, offering a platform to shape the future of HSE management in the region. Participants left equipped with knowledge and tools to drive safety and sustainability across their organisations.
-ENDS-
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Fire Safety
- Topic: Fire Safety
- Date: 14 November, 2024
- Year: 2024
From 13-14 November 2024, the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort in Abu Dhabi hosted SIBEC 2024, an event bringing together fire and life safety experts from around the world.
Organised by SIBCA, a leading provider of fire, life safety, and ICT solutions in the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, the two-day event focused on fostering collaboration and advancing safety and sustainability across the MENA region.
Themed ‘Innovation that Keeps You Safe,’ the 2024 edition spotlighted advancements in fire and life safety technologies, including building management systems (BMS), extra-low voltage (ELV) systems, audiovisual solutions, HVAC, lighting, and ICT. The event highlighted the transformative role of AI and IoT in smart building systems, along with the application of data analytics to enhance risk management and proactive safety measures.
SIBEC 2024 featured key industry players, supported by 30 major partners, including NFPA, UL Solutions, Johnson Controls, Honeywell, Huawei, ABB, and Pelco by Motorola. Attendees engaged in presentations, panel discussions, and exhibitions that showcased innovative safety solutions. The event also offered training sessions and workshops for technical professionals, addressing the latest market trends and industry standards.
SIBEC 2024 marked the launch of the Trainovation Fire and Safety Academy Center in Abu Dhabi. Established in collaboration with the NFPA, the academy will offer NFPA-certified training programs to equip fire and life safety professionals with essential skills to protect lives and property, further strengthening the region's safety and sustainability framework.
“As the UAE and the GCC continue to expand vital infrastructure to accommodate the region’s rapidly developing economic and demographic trends, it is vital that the industry embraces the role of connectivity in driving innovation for a safer and more sustainable future. SIBEC provides a critical platform for industry leaders and stakeholders to come together to shape the future of safety and technology in the built environment,” said Ibrahim Lari, chairman of SIBCA and founder of SIBEC.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- News
- Topic: Events
- Date: 13 November, 2024
- Year: 2024
Intersec 2025, taking place from 14-16 January 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), will address road safety as a critical challenge, bringing together experts to discuss strategies for managing road-related risks and advancing the goals of the Global Plan for the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021–2030.
Developed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations, the Global Plan aims to halve road traffic deaths and injuries by 2030. With 92% of global road fatalities occurring in low- and middle-income countries, despite these regions holding only 60% of the world’s vehicles, the issue poses a significant social and economic challenge.
Dubai has made notable progress in road safety, reducing traffic fatalities by 93% between 2007 and 2023, reaching a record low of 1.6 deaths per 100,000 people last year. This achievement has been attributed to improved traffic enforcement and enhanced infrastructure. Local initiatives like the Roads & Transport Authority’s "Golden Rules for Generational Safety" campaign, which educates school children on traffic rules, have also played a role.
Advancing safety
The Intersec 2025 Safety & Health Conference will offer safety professionals a platform to explore advancements in workplace and road safety. Curated by the National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH), the second day of the conference (15 January) will focus on strategies for improving workplace safety across industries.
Running parallel to the conference, Intersec 2025 will feature a dedicated Safety & Health exhibition zone with 180 exhibitors from 30 countries, including prominent UAE-based companies such as MSA Safety, Woodland, and Palletco. The event will also showcase solutions across other sectors, including Commercial & Perimeter Security, Fire & Rescue, Cyber Security, and Homeland Security & Policing.
The 26th edition of Intersec will bring together 1,200 exhibitors from over 60 countries and is expected to attract more than 42,000 trade visitors. With the theme "Mapping the future in safety, security & fire protection," the event aims to provide actionable insights and solutions to advance safety and security on a global scale.
Dr Karen McDonnell, head of global relations at The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), said, “This data highlights a critical social sustainability issue. By adopting a ‘safe systems’ approach that incorporates strong policies, innovative technology, and public-private partnerships, organisations in the UAE and across the region can take ownership of road safety issues, and we can make a measurable impact on reducing road-related fatalities and injuries.”
Eugene Mayne, founder and CEO of UAE-based Tristar Group, shared how his company has embraced road safety in its operations, “Tristar has achieved a remarkable record of over 500 million kilometres driven without a single fatality across its fleet. Our success can be attributed to our ‘visible and felt leadership’ and the use of cutting-edge technology, such as our patented fatigue detection system, which alerts drivers and control room operators to potential risks in real-time.”
Andy Shenstone, CEO, NEBOSH, commented, “NEBOSH is delighted to curate content for Intersec for the third consecutive year. More than eight thousand people from the UAE took a NEBOSH qualification in the past 12 months, so this event is a great opportunity for us to give back to the professional community here. We have assembled some of health and safety's leading voices to share their expertise with Intersec delegates, helping them to improve practice in their own organisations."
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Fire Safety
- Topic: Fire Safety
- Date: 12 November, 2024
- Year: 2024
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recently participated in the 4th International Fire Operations Conference (IFOC), held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 3-7 November.
The conference explored emerging trends and technologies in fire prevention, safety protocols, emergency response, and crisis management.
Bringing together thought leaders, practitioners, and innovators from around the globe, the event provided participants with cutting-edge insights, strategies, and best practices to address current challenges in fire operations.
With 130 years of expertise in fire safety, encompassing wildfire preparedness, electrical safety, hazardous materials management, community risk reduction, and public safety, NFPA played a pivotal role as a technical partner. Collaborating with its IFOC committee members, NFPA helped shape the conference theme, agenda, and speaker lineup.
NFPA representatives, including Dana Kamal, actively contributed to the event through workshops and panel discussions on critical topics such as “NFPA Codes & Standards: How to Use Them Effectively,” “Critical Issue of Fires in Buildings Under Construction,” and “Future of Safety: AR & VR Interactive Workshop.” Attendees also benefited from insights on preparing for the Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) Certification using the new Fire Protection Handbook (FPH).
NFPA’s participation in the 4th IFOC underscored its commitment to advancing fire and life safety standards in the Middle East. By fostering collaboration with regional leaders and innovators, NFPA continues to champion global best practices, paving the way for safer communities and more resilient infrastructure across Saudi Arabia and beyond.
“With over 300 codes and standards, and recognised globally for our innovative research, professional training, public education, outreach, and advocacy, NFPA is honoured to share its expertise in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the 4th International Fire Operations Conference. We aspire to collaborate with leaders across the health and safety sectors to uphold the highest standards and create a future where everyone is safe, both at home and in the workplace,” said Dana Kamal, director of international business development, MENA at NFPA.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial
- Topic: Industrial
- Date: 11 November, 2024
- Year: 2024
Niftylift has unveiled ClipOn, a retrofittable safety device that offers access platform operators clear visual and audible cues to connect their harnesses before operating machinery.
Designed for Niftylift’s entire HeightRider range, ClipOn activates as soon as the key switch is turned on, alerting operators if they attempt to operate without securing their harness.
Red LED lights above connection points indicate an unfastened harness, and an alarm will sound if the operator tries to move the machine without proper attachment. Once the harness is secured, the LEDs turn green and the alarm ceases, ensuring a clear signal of safety compliance.
Reducing injuries
ClipOn’s visibility extends to ground teams with under-basket LEDs, signalling whether the operator is harnessed correctly, reinforcing safety protocols on-site.
The system integrates seamlessly into both new and existing Niftylift fleets and instals with ease using only three components—the control box, harness sensor, and light array. Its operation is intuitive, similar to seat belt alert systems in vehicles, making adoption straightforward for operators.
Effective safety protocols are essential, especially in high-risk sectors like working at height, where falls are a leading cause of workplace injuries.
Systems like ClipOn, with its simple yet powerful reminders, provide critical assurance for operators, managers, and site owners. ClipOn not only enhances safety but also simplifies inspection and compliance checks, offering a streamlined and unobtrusive safety solution that sets a new standard in access platform safety.
“Working at height inevitably involves risks, with falls being one of the most frequent causes of workplace injuries. That’s why ClipOn is crucial. Safety shouldn’t be complicated, and by ensuring every operator is securely harnessed before operating the machine, we’re making a simple but significant move towards eliminating the risk of falls from height,” said John Keely, managing director at Niftylift.