Industrial Insights
Industrial Insights
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 9 December, 2024
- Year: 2024
Parsons Corporation has announced the official launch of the Riyadh Metro, marking a significant milestone in the transformation of the Saudi capital's urban transport network.
The inauguration, held on 27 November 2024, celebrates the culmination of years of collaborative effort under the Royal Commission for Riyadh City (RCRC).
By August 2024, the Riyadh Metro Transit Consultants (RMTC) achieved over 7 million work hours without a lost-time injury, reflecting the rigorous health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards maintained throughout the project. This milestone was supported by more than 450,000 HSE inductions and over 13,000 targeted HSE campaigns, underscoring the project's strong commitment to workplace safety and operational excellence.
Parsons played a pivotal role as the lead partner in the Riyadh Metro Transit Consultants (RMTC), a joint venture with Egis and SYSTRA. The consortium was tasked with project and construction management for two major contracts within the metro's development. With the successful delivery of these projects, Parsons has reaffirmed its reputation as a leader in managing complex infrastructure initiatives.
“From its inception, the Riyadh Metro was conceived as a transformative project to reshape urban mobility and dramatically improve the lives of residents and visitors alike. On behalf of Parsons, a long-term partner of the RCRC, and the lead consultant for the delivery of this world-class system, I would like to congratulate His Majesty King Salman and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohamed Bin Salman on its first day of operations,” said Pierre Santoni, president, infrastructure EMEA at Parsons. “We look forward to supporting the city of Riyadh and the Kingdom in the successful completion of subsequent stages of the metro and the wider Saudi Vision 2030, by using global experience and deep local expertise to deliver excellence on every project.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 6 December, 2024
- Year: 2024
Larry Wilson, Author and CEO, SafeStart, emphasises the critical importance of identifying "when" we're most vulnerable to complacency and critical errors. Read on:
As we keep exploring the series Paradigm Shifts in Safety, we’re excited for you to check out the eighth article in this 12-part series.
Lots of ground covered so far: hazardous energy and movement, three sources of unexpected events (over 95% in the Self-Area), the counter-intuitive nature of dangerous activities vs. actual outcomes and then why: because when both our eyes and mind are not on task, for that moment, we are defenseless.
So as mentioned in an earlier article, it’s not that we are totally defenseless, it’s that from time to time, we are “momentarily defenseless”. which is why you hear so many people talking about car wrecks or serious injuries, saying that I really wasn’t doing anything wrong, I wasn’t really speeding or rushing. Okay, I was a bit tired and I was thinking about a problem at work, or home, or whatever… and then (car wreck, bad fall, serious cut, blown knee, concussion, etc.).
So, figuring out “when”, becomes the crux of the matter. Unless we know when those moments will happen, knowing why we get hurt badly (eyes and mind not on task/no reflex) won’t help to prevent the next one. So, figuring out the “when” part is the key. And unfortunately, for so many years, the focus has been on “what” the people were doing and how much hazardous energy they were dealing with (which is important) but not, which is the main paradigm shift here, not nearly as important as figuring out when.
When will you or me or the next guy in line— when will we be most likely to make both critical errors at the same time—where there is also a significant amount of hazardous energy involved?
Well… it will likely be doing something that you have been doing for a while, because at the beginning of any activity where there is a fair bit of hazardous energy and the potential for injury – “awareness“ or “eyes and mind on task” – is very high (see Figure #1).
During this first period with an activity or skill it is possible and normally quite natural to self-trigger or to be able to self-trigger on the amount of hazardous energy. And as a result, it’s easy to stay focused. It may even seem, at least when you first start out, that it would be impossible to become complacent.
However, as we all know, the initial fear rarely lasts forever. And over a period of time, depending on the activity or skill required, we come to the first stage of complacency. This is where the fear or skill is no longer pre-occupying.
And as mentioned in previous articles, we don’t give our minds permission to wander. It happens without our permission or without making a decision to think about something else (Figure #1). So even if you don’t have anything else you need to think about or want to think about, your mind can still drift away.
But if you’re rushing, chances are it’s for a reason. It might be because you want to get there early. More likely, it’s because you don’t want to be late. Either way, that’s what most people think about when they’re rushing—not what is the risk in the moment – right now (driving really fast on a city street). And if the consequences for being late are going to be really bad (late for meeting at work)…
Click here for the full article and to learn why understanding when moments of vulnerability occur is key to prevention, not just focusing on what we’re doing. Discover how to shift your perspective and enhance your safety strategies: https://ae.safestart.com/paradigm-shifts/8-the-complacency-continuum-and-when-vs-what/
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 5 December, 2024
- Year: 2024
The Global Manufacturing and Industrialisation Summit (GMIS2024) will convene on 5 December during Abu Dhabi Business Week, uniting global leaders from government, industry, and international organisations to advance industrial safety standards and innovations.
The summit will explore critical safety challenges posed by interconnected systems and AI-driven technologies while promoting opportunities to standardise practices across borders. Discussions will emphasise sustainable growth, worker safety, and operational resilience.
Collaborating with Abu Dhabi Civil Defence and the Global Initiative for Industrial Safety (GIFIS), GMIS2024 will follow the "Manifesto for Global Industrial Safety" to propose actionable strategies for enhancing safety and resilience across industries.
The summit will feature insights from high-ranking officials, including H.E. Osama Amir Mohamed Fadhel from the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), H.E. Brigadier General Salem Abdullah Bin Barak AlDhaheri of Abu Dhabi Civil Defence, and H.E. Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, the UAE’s cybersecurity chief.
Representatives from key Abu Dhabi entities, including ADIO and Abu Dhabi's Department of Economic Development, will also participate, reinforcing the emirate’s role as a leader in industrial innovation and safety.
Discussing safety
Key sessions at GMIS2024 will spotlight critical advancements in industrial ecosystems and safety. “Make It In The Emirates: A Future Ready Ecosystem” will showcase the UAE as a global model for industrial innovation, while “Emergency Response 2.0: Reshaping the Future of Crisis Management & Fire Safety” will delve into cutting-edge technologies revolutionising crisis response.
The event will also introduce “The Manifesto for Global Safety: A Call to Action for Resilient and Safe Industries”, advocating for worker safety and seamless technological integration. Industry leaders such as the Institute for Manufacturing at the University of Cambridge and Axial Global Advisors will enrich discussions, reflecting the diversity of expertise across the industrial ecosystem.
H.E. Osama Amir Mohamed Fadhel, said, "Industrial safety is a cornerstone for sustainable growth and resilience in an era of rapid technological evolution. The Global Manufacturing and Industrialisation Summit serves as a vital platform to unify efforts, share best practices, and implement innovative industrial safety frameworks that protect workers, enhance operational efficiency & productivity, and foster global collaboration."
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Fire Safety
- Topic: Fire Safety
- Date: 3 December, 2024
- Year: 2024
A Survitec white paper highlighting maritime fire safety risks has won the Safety in Maritime (Marine) award at the IBJ Awards
The paper, titled "Why Are the Fires Not Going Out? Unveiling the True Cost of Inadequate Fire Safety Inspections," exposes the widespread failures in fire safety practices that have led to an alarming increase in shipboard fire incidents worldwide.
Drawing on data and testimonies from Survitec’s certified service technicians, the white paper uncovers troubling lapses in fire safety practices. According to the paper, some ship operators are relying on untrained crews for fire safety maintenance due to post-COVID cost-cutting measures. These practices have led to avoidable system failures, such as the use of incorrect or counterfeit parts, poorly fitted equipment, and contamination of essential firefighting systems. Survitec also highlights instances of substandard inspections and approvals where safety certifications were granted despite glaring deficiencies.
Metkel Yohannes, director of Service & Rental Solutions at Survitec, said, “Shipboard fires have risen by 17% year-on-year, becoming one of the leading causes of maritime losses and the most expensive source of marine insurance claims, accounting for over 20% of total losses.
“While advancements in fire detection and protection technologies have been made, the industry is still seeing alarming levels of fire safety deficiencies, with thousands of incidents reported each year by international inspection authorities. This highlights an urgent need for improved oversight and maintenance practices across the sector.”
One example highlighted a vessel that experienced an engine room fire. While the crew successfully extinguished the flames, they discovered a fault in their high-expansion foam firefighting system, caused by a protective cap left inside the system after the installation of a new foam pump.
In another instance, a fire broke out aboard a bulk carrier in early 2024 after more than half the recently inspected and certified CO2 cylinders failed to activate.
The study also raises concerns about the growing risks of alternative fuels and lithium-ion batteries, which require specialised detection and firefighting systems. Survitec argues for more stringent oversight of service providers, urging the maritime industry to adopt higher quality control benchmarks and ensure that all fire safety inspections meet rigorous international standards.
Yohannes added, “Shipowners and operators need accredited partners with the expertise to ensure their safety systems perform under the most demanding conditions. Anything less is not only a false economy but a threat to crew safety and vessel integrity.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial
- Topic: Industrial
- Date: 27 November, 2024
- Year: 2024
Celeros Flow Technology (Celeros FT) and Carbon Clean signed a partnership agreement at ADIPEC to accelerate the deployment of carbon capture technology in hard-to-abate industries
Under the partnership agreement, both companies will collaborate to develop industrial-scale carbon capture solutions. It will see Celeros FT combining its application knowledge and technical engineering pedigree with Carbon Clean’s specialist expertise in carbon capture solutions, specifically Carbon Clean’s patented Cyclone CC technology, which is columnless, compact and modular, delivering high performance while significantly reducing the cost of carbon capture compared to conventional solutions.
Celeros FT, which provides engineering and fabrication services based on more than 140 years of experience, will leverage its extensive sales and aftermarket support network to support the decarbonisation goals of existing and new customers.
The agreement represents further progress towards Celeros FT’s ambition to become a full chain supplier to the Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) sector and adds industrial carbon capture technology to its portfolio of specialist CO2 transportation pumps and injection pumps for storage.
Jose Larios, CEO & president, Celeros FT said, “Celeros Flow Technology recognises the challenges that the energy transition raises for customers. This partnership further underlines our commitment to developing fully customised lifecycle solutions that respond to the diverse process challenges of transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable resources. We are excited by the prospect of working collaboratively with Carbon Clean to deliver modular, compact, and scalable solutions for carbon capture across our chosen markets.”
Aniruddha Sharma, chair and CEO, Carbon Clean, commented, “Our fully modular, columnless technology will transform the industrial carbon capture sector – solving the longstanding cost and space barriers. The Carbon Clean team have delivered a breakthrough and we are excited to partner with Celeros Flow Technology for manufacturing and fabrication. This partnership will play a significant role in accelerating the number of deployed units, enabling CycloneCC technology to be fully commercialised and rolled out at scale.”
- 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
- 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.