Industrial Insights
Industrial Insights
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Year: 2026
In the high stakes world of industrial operations, the "post-mortem" has long been our most reliable teacher. We have become experts at forensic analysis, mapping out exactly how we failed.
Despite this forensic prowess, global workplace fatality rates have plateaued. We are getting better at explaining accidents, but not at preventing them.
Thus, we need to shift our focus from investigating the past to managing the present in real-time. We are moving into the era of the "pre-mortem." Through this, we can use AI to imagine a future failure so we can dismantle the causes today.
But achieving this shift requires more than just purchasing the latest technology.
It demands a clear-eyed understanding that AI is not a magic wand. Its performance depends entirely on two things: the quality of its fuel and the wisdom of its operator. The real drivers of AI in HSE are contextual data and human experience.
Current realities
Right now, most safety programmes rely on periodic audits, morning inspections, or static risk assessments. We assume our controls are working because they were checked last Tuesday.
But the reality on the ground is fluid. A physical guard might be removed ten minutes after an inspection; a sensor might drift; a crew might be exhausted by mid-afternoon.
This lag time between a control failing and us finding out about it is the "grey zone" where incidents are born. Currently, our risk management is often a document sitting in a drawer while the environment it describes changes every hour. We are essentially managing safety in the rearview mirror, waiting for a deviation to become a disaster before we react.
Why data is the driver
AI is a high-performance engine, and engines need fuel. That fuel is contextual data.
Generic industry statistics won't help you catch a "weak signal" in your specific plant. To be effective, AI needs the messy, internal details of how your site runs, how your machinery behaves in your local humidity, and the specific language your teams use in their reports. However, we must be realistic: building this data foundation is a marathon, not a sprint. The challenges of cleaning fragmented records and accurately labeling historical data are significant. It requires a long-term commitment to digital systems that collect and collate information consistently before the AI can even begin to "learn."
Non-negotiable human homework
Furthermore, you cannot deploy AI to monitor controls if you haven't done the human homework first. A comprehensive Risk Assessment (RA), driven by the collective intelligence of people who have "been there and done that," is the mandatory starting point. Humans must define the controls and classify them. This is the only way to tell the AI what "good" actually looks like. This human wisdom is not a step we can skip. It is the bedrock upon which any effective AI system must be built.
Unlike a human inspector who assesses a control at a single point in time, an AI system continuously evaluates four critical dimensions of control health.
Presence: Is the shield actually there and active right now?
A control that is approved on paper is useless if it is not physically in place. AI evaluates presence by aggregating data from multiple sources. For example, a machine guard fitted with a limit switch sends a continuous signal to the AI platform; if the guard is removed, the signal stops, and the AI instantly flags a failure. Cameras equipped with computer vision can visually verify that required equipment is in place, such as confirming a ventilation fan is positioned at a confined space entry before a permit is finalised. In a refinery, a pressure relief valve is monitored not just by its own signal, but by confirming its isolation valves are in the correct open position, ensuring the relief path is always available.
Suitability: Is this still the right control given today's specific variables?
A control might be present, but that doesn't mean it is the right tool for the job at this moment. AI evaluates suitability by pulling in contextual data from weather APIs, maintenance schedules, and production plans. Consider a planned hot work activity requiring a fire watch. The AI checks the weather forecast and sees wind speeds are predicted to gust above the limit specified in the company's procedure. It determines that the standard "fire watch with one extinguisher" control is no longer suitable and automatically recommends upgrading the control or postponing the work.
Effectiveness: Is it performing to its design specification at this very second?
A control can be present and suitable, but is it actually working? AI compares live output against engineered design parameters. For example, a local exhaust ventilation system for welding fumes was designed to maintain a specific airflow velocity. The AI, connected to a pressure sensor in the ducting, notices the airflow has dropped below the design spec. It hasn't failed entirely, but it is no longer performing effectively. The AI alerts the maintenance team to a partial blockage or fan degradation, allowing them to restore full protection before worker exposure increases.
Reliability: Based on historical patterns and current degradation, when is this control likely to fail?
This is the most predictive dimension. AI uses machine learning to analyse historical maintenance records and real-time sensor data, mapping the current state of equipment onto a predictive degradation curve. For a critical crane, the AI might learn that load cells in the overload system begin to drift hundreds of hours before they fail completely. When it detects minor drift in the live data, it cross-references the historical model and issues an alert: "Overload protection system showing early signs of degradation. Recommend inspection within 14 days to prevent unplanned failure."
The real power lies in AI's ability to act as a scenario generator. Humans are naturally limited in how many variables we can correlate at once. We might see a vibrating pump, a delayed maintenance schedule, and a tired crew as three separate, manageable issues. AI, however, doesn't see them in isolation.
Consider this scenario: In a chemical processing plant, an operator notes a slight, 2% variance in a reactor's temperature. It is well within limits, so it is logged and forgotten. Meanwhile, the maintenance system flags a pump's vibration is up 5%, and the shift roster shows the relief operator called in sick, meaning the current crew is working its fourth double-shift in a week.
This may be a non-issue for humans, but the AI synthesises these weak signals. Its scenario generation models a "path to failure." Fatigued operators are slower to notice the creeping temperature variance, which is being exacerbated by the degrading pump. It issues an alert: "High probability of temperature excursion in Unit 3 within the next 4 hours. Recommended action: Re-assign operator for break and inspect pump."
Guarding the human element
Despite this potential, we must design these systems carefully. I am not a fan of the "point-and-click" safety approach where you take a photo and an app finds the hazard. Safety isn't just about spotting a trip hazard; it's about the thought process behind it. When we offload hazard identification entirely to an app, we stop thinking. We stop engaging our brains.
This is precisely why a good safety programme needs to start with the human-led Risk Assessment as the basis. We are not using AI to find a box left in an aisle. We are using it to monitor the complex interplay of controls designed by humans. This focus on control integrity rather than personal compliance is the key to avoiding the "Big Brother" trap.
When the system is designed to ask, "Is the guard in place?" rather than "Is Steve wearing his gloves?", it shifts the culture. The workforce sees the AI as a silent guardian of their equipment's health and their own safety and not a warden watching their every move.
This article was penned by JC Sekar, co-founder and CEO of AcuiZen Technologies, a Singapore-based company specialising in the digital transformation of operational workflows to enhance risk management, safety, operational efficiency and sustainability. HSE Review has edited the article for brevity.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Year: 2026
ADNOC Logistics & Services has highlighted strong safety performance alongside operational resilience, as shareholders approved key resolutions at its annual general meeting, including a final dividend payout.
While the company reported robust financial results, its focus on health, safety and environment (HSE) performance stood out as a central pillar of its operations. ADNOC L&S confirmed that recent regional developments have not disrupted its global activities, with all divisions continuing to operate safely and efficiently.
The company noted that it remains in close coordination with authorities and stakeholders to safeguard personnel and ensure uninterrupted operations. This approach is supported by established contingency planning and business continuity frameworks designed to mitigate risk across its logistics network.
A key indicator of its safety progress is the significant improvement in its total recordable incident rate (TRIR), which declined to 0.09 per million manhours worked by the end of 2025. This represents a 50% year-on-year improvement, achieved despite a substantial rise in overall workforce activity. The performance places ADNOC L&S among the leading companies in its sector for safety standards.
Leadership emphasised that maintaining a strong safety culture is integral to operational excellence. The company continues to embed HSE practices across all activities, supported by training, monitoring and the adoption of advanced technologies.
Digital innovation is playing an increasing role in enhancing safety outcomes. ADNOC L&S has integrated artificial intelligence and data-driven systems into its operations, enabling faster decision-making and improved risk management. Its Smart Port Solution, for example, has streamlined vessel handling processes while reducing operational exposure, contributing to safer and more efficient port activities.
In parallel, the company is investing in modern, energy-efficient vessels, including LNG and ethane carriers, which are designed to meet higher safety and environmental standards. These assets support both operational reliability and the company’s longer-term decarbonisation goals.
Beyond safety, ADNOC L&S delivered strong financial growth in 2025, supported by market demand and strategic expansion. However, the company reiterated that safe and reliable operations remain the foundation of its performance and future growth.
Looking ahead, ADNOC L&S confirmed it will continue prioritising workforce safety, operational integrity and risk management as it expands its global footprint, ensuring that safety remains embedded at every stage of its logistics value chain.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Year: 2026
Orange Jordan has strengthened its commitment to workplace safety through a large-scale occupational health and safety (OHS) training initiative, bringing together employees from across the country for both practical and classroom-based learning.
The programme, led by the company’s Health, Safety and Environment unit within the human resources function, engaged around 180 participants, including engineers, technicians, supervisors and support staff. Designed to enhance on-the-ground safety awareness, the sessions combined theoretical instruction with hands-on exercises to reinforce best practice.
Key focus areas included working at height, road safety awareness, fire protection systems and structured approaches to identifying and managing workplace risks. Participants were also trained in hazard control strategies, enabling them to apply preventative measures in daily operations.
Orange Jordan stated that the initiative forms part of a broader strategy to embed health and safety into its organisational culture. The company continues to prioritise employee wellbeing by aligning its practices with recognised international standards and regulatory frameworks.
The training programme also reflects compliance with national labour requirements in Jordan, while supporting the company’s long-term objective of maintaining a safe and sustainable working environment.
In addition to training efforts, Orange Jordan has reinforced its safety credentials by renewing its ISO 45001:2018 certification for occupational health and safety management systems for the third consecutive year in 2025. The certification highlights the company’s consistent approach to risk management, incident prevention and continuous improvement since first achieving the standard in 2019.
By combining structured training with recognised certification frameworks, the company aims to enhance workforce competence, reduce operational risks and ensure that safety remains a core component of its business operations.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Year: 2026
Bapco Energies has confirmed that a fire broke out at one of its storage facilities on 5 April following what authorities described as a hostile drone incident.
The blaze, which affected a storage tank, has since been extinguished, with the site now reported to be stable and secure.
According to the Bahrain News Agency, no injuries were recorded.
Assessment teams have been deployed to evaluate the extent of the damage, while operations remain under close monitoring.
Emergency crews responded rapidly to the situation, coordinating efforts with Civil Defence and other relevant authorities to contain the fire and prevent further escalation.
The company reiterated that protecting personnel and ensuring operational safety remain its foremost priorities.
In a separate development, Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company reported that several of its operational units were impacted by drone activity in the early hours of the same day.
The incident led to multiple fires within affected areas of the facility.
All fires at the GPIC site have now been brought under control, with no casualties reported.
Response teams acted swiftly to manage the situation, working alongside emergency services and government bodies to secure the site and mitigate risks.
Damage assessments are ongoing at both locations to determine the full operational impact.
Authorities have not yet disclosed further details regarding the scale of disruption or timelines for recovery.
The incidents highlight the vulnerability of critical energy infrastructure to external threats, as operators across the region continue to reinforce emergency preparedness and response capabilities.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 3rd April 2026
- Year: 2026
Kuwait Petroleum Corporation has confirmed that its Mina al-Ahmadi refinery was struck by drones early on Friday, triggering fires in operational units, according to Kuwait News Agency.
The company said emergency protocols were immediately activated, with firefighting and response teams deployed to contain the blaze and prevent escalation across the facility.
No injuries were reported, and authorities confirmed that personnel safety measures were swiftly implemented following the incident.
Kuwait Petroleum Corporation added that precautionary actions were taken to secure the site and minimise potential risks, while efforts continue to ensure the stability of operations at the refinery.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 2nd April 2026
- Year: 2026
Dubai Municipality has confirmed it successfully mitigated the impact of the recent “Azm” low-pressure weather system through a coordinated emergency response, ensuring public safety and maintaining essential services across the emirate.
Authorities activated an integrated operational framework as adverse weather conditions developed, deploying approximately 3,500 personnel, including engineers, supervisors, field teams and specialised rescue units. The response was supported by a fleet of more than 1,200 vehicles and machines, ranging from water tankers and pumps to cranes and heavy-duty equipment, enabling swift intervention across affected areas.
During the event, the municipality handled over 15,000 calls and thousands of digital interactions via its smart systems, while resolving more than 4,000 field reports. These included incidents such as water pooling, blocked drainage systems, fallen trees and road clean-up operations, reflecting the scale and complexity of the response effort.
Dubai’s drainage infrastructure played a central role in managing the situation, handling more than 12 million cubic metres of rainwater. Pumping stations accounted for the majority of the volume, supported by deep drainage tunnels and mobile tanker operations. The emirate’s network, comprising tens of thousands of drainage points and an extensive pipeline system, enabled the efficient removal of the vast majority of stormwater.
Officials said the response followed a structured, phased approach. Initial preparations focused on readiness, including equipment deployment and system checks. This was followed by the activation of emergency protocols to address immediate challenges and ensure continuity of municipal services. A final recovery phase facilitated the return to normal conditions across the city.
Eng. Adel Mohammed Al Marzouqi, CEO of the Waste and Sewerage Agency, said, “Dubai’s response to the recent weather conditions demonstrates the strength of an integrated operational model built on preparedness, coordination, and advanced infrastructure. Our priority remains the safety, wellbeing, and quality of life of the community, supported by proactive planning and rapid response capabilities that enable us to manage challenges efficiently under all conditions.”
He added, “We remain committed to continuously advancing stormwater and wastewater infrastructure to ensure it meets the highest standards of resilience, sustainability, and future readiness.”
Public facilities, including beaches and parks, were managed under strict safety protocols, with temporary closures implemented where necessary. Around 1,000 personnel were deployed to oversee these areas, supported by advanced technologies such as drones, marine rescue systems and automated monitoring tools.
Recovery efforts were completed swiftly, with beaches reopening within six hours and parks within 24 hours. Clean-up operations included clearing debris, removing fallen trees and draining residual water to restore safe conditions.
The municipality said uninterrupted wastewater and drainage operations were maintained throughout, ensuring road safety and minimising disruption despite the challenging weather conditions.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 1st April 2026
- Year: 2026
The Public Authority for Roads in Saudi Arabia is intensifying efforts to raise occupational health and safety standards across major infrastructure projects as the Kingdom prepares for an ambitious 2026 programme of works.
According to SaudiAuto.com, Engineer Badr bin Abdullah Al-Dalami, CEO of the Public Authority for Roads, led discussions that focussed on practical steps to strengthen workplace safety protocols at construction sites.
The gathering emphasised the transition to a new generation of performance contracts, which place greater emphasis on operational efficiency, risk reduction, and compliance with modern health and safety requirements.
These changes form part of a broader drive to ensure that road development keeps pace with Saudi Vision 2030 objectives, delivering safer infrastructure while protecting the workforce.
A key outcome of the authority’s recent initiatives is the strategic memorandum of understanding signed in November 2025 with the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health.
This partnership establishes a formal framework for joint cooperation, including awareness campaigns, training programmes, and the adoption of international best practices tailored to local conditions.
By aligning regulatory oversight with contractor delivery, the agreement aims to create a culture of proactive safety management rather than reactive compliance.
Industry observers note that the road sector remains one of the most labour-intensive areas of Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure expansion.
With thousands of workers involved in projects spanning remote regions, the potential for incidents is significant unless robust controls are in place.
The authority’s approach recognises that investing in safety is not only an ethical obligation but also a strategic necessity that can reduce project delays, lower insurance costs, and enhance contractor performance ratings.
Contractors attending the meeting welcomed the clarity provided by the revised contracts, which outline clearer mechanisms for monitoring safety indicators and reporting near-miss incidents.
The updated agreements also encourage the localisation of expertise, ensuring that Saudi nationals benefit from advanced training in hazard identification, emergency response, and sustainable construction methods.
Looking ahead, these measures are expected to contribute to measurable improvements in occupational health outcomes across the sector.
By embedding safety requirements into contractual obligations from the outset, the Public Authority for Roads is signalling a shift towards zero-harm ambitions that mirror global leaders in infrastructure delivery.
The initiatives also support wider national goals of reducing road-related risks, both for workers and the travelling public.
As the Kingdom continues its massive transport modernisation drive, sustained collaboration between government bodies, private contractors, and safety regulators will be essential to maintaining momentum.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 31st March 2026
- Year: 2026
A new systematic review has raised concerns over the growing burden of occupational noise-induced hearing loss (ONIHL) in Saudi Arabia, highlighting significant gaps in awareness and preventive practices across high-risk sectors.
The study, which analysed seven cross-sectional investigations conducted between 2016 and 2023, found that hearing loss linked to workplace noise exposure varies dramatically depending on occupation and diagnostic methods. Prevalence rates ranged from as low as 2% to as high as 71.6%, with the most severe cases reported among military personnel.
Researchers reviewed data from 1,481 participants across multiple regions, covering professions such as dental practitioners, technicians, medical students and armed forces personnel. The findings suggest that prolonged exposure to high noise levels, combined with insufficient protective measures, remains a major occupational health challenge.
Military environments were identified as particularly vulnerable, with studies showing that more than half of personnel lacked awareness of the risks associated with sustained noise exposure. Notably, none of the participants in one study reported consistent use of hearing protection, while only a minority had undergone regular hearing assessments.
In comparison, dental professionals demonstrated lower reported prevalence rates, although researchers caution that this may reflect underdiagnosis rather than reduced risk. Dental clinics are known to generate significant noise through equipment such as drills, compressors and polishing tools, which can expose workers to potentially harmful decibel levels over extended periods.
Across all occupational groups, the review identified a recurring pattern of limited knowledge and weak adoption of preventive measures. Even among medical and dental students, awareness levels were inconsistent, with just under 60% demonstrating adequate understanding of noise-related hearing risks.
The study also highlights key risk factors associated with ONIHL, including age, years of professional experience and duration of exposure to noisy environments. These findings reinforce the link between cumulative noise exposure and irreversible hearing damage, which can significantly affect communication, productivity and overall quality of life.
Beyond auditory impairment, the report notes broader health implications. Hearing loss has been associated with increased risks of social isolation, mental health challenges and even cardiovascular conditions, placing an additional burden on healthcare systems.
Despite these risks, the condition remains largely preventable. The authors emphasise the importance of implementing comprehensive hearing conservation programmes, including routine audiometric testing, stricter enforcement of workplace noise limits and mandatory use of personal protective equipment such as earplugs and earmuffs.
Education and awareness campaigns are also seen as critical to improving outcomes. Embedding occupational health training into medical and technical curricula could help bridge the gap between knowledge and practice, particularly in sectors where noise exposure is unavoidable.
The researchers conclude that addressing ONIHL will require coordinated efforts from policymakers, employers and healthcare professionals. With Saudi Arabia undergoing rapid industrial and economic expansion, proactive strategies will be essential to safeguard workforce health and mitigate long-term socio-economic impacts.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Year: 2026
Fire-resistant glazing specialist Pyroguard has strengthened its regional scope through a new manufacturing partnership with South Glass, aimed at meeting rising demand for fire safety solutions across India and the Middle East.
The collaboration amounts to a major step in Pyroguard’s expansion strategy, establishing a dedicated production base in Hyderabad.
The company said that this move could improve supply chain efficiency, reduce delivery times, and enhance technical support for clients operating in fast-growing construction markets.
Industry demand for fire-rated glazing has increased in recent years, driven by rapid urban development and stricter building safety regulations. Pyroguard said its local manufacturing capability will allow it to respond more effectively to these requirements while continuing to comply with Indian standards and its own international performance benchmarks.
The new facility will produce a range of fire-resistant glass products for use in doors, partitions, façades and curtain walling systems. By manufacturing locally, the company works more closely with architects, developers and contractors to supply customised solutions suited to regional specifications and project needs.
According to the company, the expansion also supports improved safety outcomes by assuring consistent access to certified fire protection materials. Fire-rated glazing plays a key role in containing flames and smoke, helping to protect building occupants and support evacuation in emergencies.
Pyroguard has supplied the Indian market for more than a decade from its European operations, aiding projects such as Vivanta by Taj Dwarka and commercial developments in Noida and Hyderabad. The new plant is expected to build on this track record by providing locally produced materials that meet the same quality and accreditation standards as its UK and French facilities.
Among the products to be manufactured are Pyroguard Protect and Pyroguard Firesafe E120, both designed to deliver high levels of fire resistance. The company confirmed that its 13 mm glazing solutions have undergone extensive testing to meet Indian standards, achieving classifications that demonstrate their ability to limit heat transfer and maintain soundness during fire incidents.
Steve Goodburn, Business Development Director at Pyroguard, said, “India’s rapidly growing infrastructure and commercial real estate sectors, combined with tighter fire safety regulations, are driving strong demand for high-quality fire-rated glazing. Our local manufacturing presence enables closer collaboration with customers, reduced lead-times and improved support for architects working to local specifications across India and the Middle East.
“Pyroguard has a well-established sales presence in India and a dedicated team based here. Local manufacturing strengthens our commitment to the market and ensures architects, developers and contractors benefit from our quality, speed and service.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 26th March 2026
- Year: 2026
As the Middle East ramps up solar installations, ensuring the safety of installers has become a top priority.
In response, the organisers of Solar & Storage Live Middle East 2026 have unveiled a dedicated Installer Safety Zone on the exhibition floor, highlighting the latest solutions designed to protect the workforce driving the region’s energy transition.
The Installer Safety Zone will feature a broad range of protective equipment and tools. Electrical safety gear on display includes arc-rated clothing, insulated gloves, dielectric boots, arc flash protection and insulated tools, aimed at reducing risks during high-voltage operations.
General personal protective equipment (PPE) such as Class E hard hats, high-visibility apparel, cut-resistant gloves, hearing protection and safety eyewear will also be showcased to mitigate everyday hazards.
Fall protection systems will be another focal point, with exhibitors presenting harnesses, lifeline solutions, self-retracting lifelines (SRLs), anchor points and rooftop safety equipment to help installers work securely at height.
Environmental protection products, including UV-protective clothing, hydration systems, respiratory equipment and gear for harsh climate conditions, will also be available, ensuring workers are safeguarded in challenging outdoor environments.
Specialised tools and equipment, such as voltage testers, lockout/tagout (LOTO) kits, thermal imaging cameras, insulated matting and Class C fire extinguishers, will be highlighted to further improve onsite safety.
Compliance and training resources will cover OSHA standards, NFPA 70E electrical safety, working-at-heights certification, first aid and CPR, and local electrical code requirements, supporting installers and contractors in maintaining regulatory adherence.
The new zone aims to provide a platform for industry professionals to explore the latest innovations, meet leading suppliers and share best practices to raise safety standards across the renewable energy sector.
Dubai World Trade Centre will host Solar & Storage Live Middle East on 9–10 June 2026, offering attendees an opportunity to engage with cutting-edge safety solutions and learn how technology and training can minimise risks for frontline solar professionals.
By prioritising safety and compliance, the Installer Safety Zone seeks to reduce incidents on-site, increase installer confidence, and ensure the rapid growth of solar projects continues without compromising workforce wellbeing.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 25th March 2026
- Year: 2026
The British Safety Council has announced the 851 recipients of its annual International Safety Awards, recognising organisations for their achievements in workplace health, safety and wellbeing.
Now in its 68th year, the awards programme honours companies and institutions worldwide that have demonstrated a strong commitment to preventing workplace injuries and work-related illness over the past year. The scheme also highlights organisations that have taken meaningful steps to support employee wellbeing and mental health in the workplace.
For 2026, a total of 851 organisations received an International Safety Award, representing a broad range of industries. The construction, manufacturing, oil and gas, mining, power and utilities sectors accounted for a significant share of the winners. Overall, organisations from 51 countries were recognised.
Among this year’s recipients, 230 organisations achieved a Distinction, while 428 were awarded a Merit and a further 193 received a Pass. The awards are assessed by an independent panel of judges, who evaluate applicants based on their approach to managing workplace risks, improving safety performance and promoting a strong safety culture.
The full list of winners has been published by the British Safety Council and includes both multinational companies and smaller organisations that have demonstrated consistent improvements in safety standards.
The organisation also confirmed that the winners of the additional auto-entry and free-to-enter categories will be announced at gala dinners scheduled for June. The events will take place in London and, for the first time, in Dubai, marking an expansion of the awards programme to the Middle East.
Both ceremonies will be accompanied by daytime conferences held on the same dates, bringing together safety professionals, industry leaders and organisations committed to improving workplace safety. This year’s UK gala dinner is being sponsored by HSI Donesafe.
All winners will also be featured in the June edition of Safety Management Magazine, the British Safety Council’s official publication.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 24th March 2026
- Year: 2026
Zebra Technologies Corporation has identified worker safety and real-time operational visibility as central to the evolution of manufacturing, as companies invest heavily in digital tools to strengthen frontline performance.
Findings from the company’s latest industry study, conducted in partnership with Oxford Economics, show manufacturers are allocating an average of 69% of their IT budgets to technologies that connect workers, improve asset visibility and automate workflows. These investments are increasingly being directed towards solutions that enhance safety while maintaining productivity in complex industrial environments.
A key trend highlighted in the report is the growing use of on-demand digital training tools to address workforce challenges. Manufacturers are deploying interactive kiosks, smart devices and video-based learning platforms to provide instant access to safety procedures, operational guidance and troubleshooting support. This approach allows workers to respond more effectively to risks on the shop floor, while accelerating onboarding and reducing human error.
Industry experts note that improving access to safety-critical information can significantly reduce workplace incidents, particularly in high-risk sectors. By embedding training into daily operations, companies are also aiming to close skills gaps and improve employee confidence, which can contribute to safer working conditions.
Zebra also pointed to the increasing adoption of edge computing and machine vision technologies to enhance quality control and prevent defects before they escalate into safety issues. These systems use artificial intelligence to analyse production processes in real time, identifying anomalies such as equipment faults or product inconsistencies that could pose risks if left unaddressed.
By processing data at the source, manufacturers can take immediate corrective action, limiting the likelihood of defective or unsafe products progressing along the production line. This shift from reactive to proactive quality management is helping organisations reduce waste, improve compliance and strengthen overall operational safety.
Stephan Pottel, manufacturing strategy director for EMEA at Zebra Technologies, said intelligent automation is playing a crucial role in supporting safer, more efficient factories. He noted that advanced technologies are enabling organisations to better manage labour shortages while equipping workers with the tools needed to operate in increasingly automated environments.
In parallel, traceability technologies such as RFID and machine vision are being adopted to improve transparency across supply chains. These systems allow manufacturers to track materials and components throughout production, ensuring adherence to safety and quality standards, particularly in industries such as aerospace, electronics and pharmaceuticals.
As global supply chains evolve, the integration of digital solutions is expected to remain a priority, with safety, compliance and sustainability emerging as key drivers of investment.