Workplaces across Bahrain are now legally required to implement enhanced medical aid and emergency treatment protocols following the introduction of a new ministerial resolution, according to a report by Gulf Daily News.
Issued by Health Minister Dr Jalila Al Sayyed and published in the latest edition of the Official Gazette, Resolution 3822 came into force in July.
The legislation sets out comprehensive regulations to improve occupational safety standards, focusing on medical preparedness, the availability of first-aid supplies, and a structured approach to responding to health emergencies, particularly in high-risk industries.
The resolution aligns with wider national efforts to strengthen preventative and life-saving measures, including a recent directive by the General Sports Authority requiring the installation of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in gyms and fitness centres.
Under the new regulations, employers must ensure that first-aid arrangements are in place at every workplace.
This includes the provision of first-aid kits at a minimum ratio of one kit per 100 employees or fewer, and the designation of at least one trained and certified first-aider for every 20 workers. A member of staff must also be assigned to monitor kit availability and ensure compliance with reporting requirements.
Workplaces are now classified according to risk level, with Class A kits intended for low- to medium-risk environments such as offices or retail spaces, and Class B kits designated for high-risk sectors such as factories and construction sites.
Each classification requires a tailored set of medical supplies, with Class B kits demanding more comprehensive contents, including additional trauma pads, splints, tourniquets and cold packs.
AEDs remain optional for Class A environments, but their use is strongly encouraged in Class B settings.
The resolution requires employers to maintain detailed emergency plans that include evacuation routes, the locations of first-aid kits and contact information for nearby health facilities.
Immediate medical assistance must be summoned in the event of an injury, and employers are obligated to ensure the injured are transported to medical care without delay. All first-aid kits must be inspected regularly and records maintained accordingly.
Legal backing for this resolution draws from a number of key Bahraini statutes, including the 1976 Social Insurance Law, the 2012 Private Sector Employment Law, the 2018 Public Health Law and its executive bylaws, as well as the 2013 Occupational Safety Regulations.
Employers found in violation may face penalties under Article 192 of the 2012 law or Article 129 of the Public Health Law, depending on the nature of the infraction.
The new resolution officially repeals a 1976 decision concerning first-aid kits, replacing it with updated standards aligned with modern occupational health and emergency care practices.
Wolters Kluwer, a global leader in professional information, software solutions, and services, has announced a new global collaboration with Enterprise Health, one of the world’s largest providers of occupational health software, serving clients in over 50 countries.
The partnership brings advanced, clinical-grade occupational health capabilities to enterprises with on-site clinics and complex health needs.
Through this collaboration, Wolters Kluwer’s EHS & ESG platform will now offer enhanced occupational health features powered by Enterprise Health’s cloud-based, ONC-ACB-certified Electronic Health Record (EHR) system.
This system supports a full spectrum of occupational and employee health needs, from compliance, health surveillance, and injury management to chronic disease and wellness programmes.
Enterprise Health’s solution is highly configurable and interoperable, allowing enterprises to streamline clinical workflows and meet a variety of operational requirements across occupational medicine, leave management, and wellness initiatives, all within a single platform.
This partnership extends the depth and flexibility of Wolters Kluwer’s award-winning safety management system, which helps EHS professionals mitigate risk, ensure regulatory compliance, and embed safety into core processes.
Wolters Kluwer’s EHS & ESG business unit operates under its Corporate Performance & ESG (CP & ESG) division, a global leader in integrated software for EHS, ESG, audit, and performance management.
Through this alliance, both companies aim to equip enterprises with the tools needed to improve employee health outcomes and drive sustainable, risk-aware business strategies.
Richard Pulliam, SVP and general manager of Wolters Kluwer EHS & ESG, said, “We are committed to continuous innovation through product development and new collaborations to ensure our clients have access to transformative technologies enabling them to plan, predict and act in line with their health and safety commitments. We are delighted to collaborate with Enterprise Health, a global leader in employee health, to advance and enhance our occupational health offering.”
“We are laser focused on occupational and employee health, and collaborating with Wolters Kluwer in the EHS space results in a best-of-breed combination for enterprise-level clients,” said Enterprise Health president Jeff Donnell.
As a global leader in safety solutions, MSA Safety has been protecting workers for over a century.
In Saudi Arabia, MSA is supporting organisations across industries with world-class training programmes designed to strengthen workplace safety and compliance.
MSA recognises that safety equipment alone is not enough – proper training is critical to ensuring employees use equipment effectively and work safely in hazardous environments.
That’s why MSA offers certified, engaging training courses tailored to meet the needs of workers, supervisors, and trainers.
Delivered by experienced professionals, MSA’s training programmes in Saudi Arabia cover a wide range of safety-critical topics, including:
• Fall Protection Training – exceeding international standards for preventing falls from height.
• Confined Space Entry Inspection – guiding supervisors on managing confined space activities safely.
• Confined Space Training – in-depth technical instruction on confined space entry and rescue procedures.
• Spill Prevention Training – covering SPCC regulations and effective spill containment strategies.
• Gas Tester Training – equipping personnel to use, maintain, and calibrate MSA portable gas detectors.
• Respiratory Protection Training – ensuring correct use and maintenance of respirators for workplace compliance.
• HAZCOM Training – 24-hour HAZWOPER certification for hazard recognition and control.
• Lock-out/Tag-out (LOTO) – protecting workers during maintenance from hazardous energy releases.
• First Aid CPR – providing essential skills to respond to emergencies.
Each course is designed to meet international standards, combining theoretical and practical elements to ensure competency and confidence in the field.
With a commitment to helping Saudi organisations build safer workplaces, MSA makes it easy to access training locally.
To learn more or to register click here.
Because at MSA, we know that when workers are trained, lives are saved.
The Abu Dhabi Hazardous Materials Management Centre (ADHMMC) has launched the Abu Dhabi Hazardous Materials Management Centre Strategy for 2025–2027 with the aim of strengthening the hazardous materials management system in the emirate
This will involve implementing a comprehensive framework for regulating the supervision and oversight of all stages of hazardous materials handling, ensuring that all relevant entities comply with approved regulations through proactive, innovative solutions and advanced technologies, in collaboration with partners within an investment-friendly environment.
Key objectives include the integrated management of hazardous materials, empowerment and capacity building, strengthening institutional maturity and readiness, and the development of legislative and regulatory frameworks related to hazardous materials. These objectives aim to improve and develop laws and supporting policies that ensure effective governance and full compliance across all stages of hazardous materials handling.
His Excellency Ahmed Saif bin Zaytoon Al Muhairi, commander-in-chief of Abu Dhabi Police, said, "The launch of the centre’s strategy is a pivotal step in reinforcing the hazardous materials management system in the emirate. It reflects our leadership’s vision and commitment to building a safe, sustainable, and investment-attractive environment in the capital, further establishing Abu Dhabi as a global hub for sustainability and innovation."
His Excellency Khalfan Abdulla Khalfan Almansoori, acting director general of Abu Dhabi Hazardous Materials Management Centre added that the centre will adopt cutting-edge technologies and develop an integrated digital system, supported by monitoring systems for proactive smart tracking. It is also adopting advanced solutions and technologies that enhance preparedness and proactive risk management.
Through the launch of the strategy, Abu Dhabi Hazardous Materials Management Centre reaffirms its commitment to global best practices and enhancing community safety and environmental sustainability.
Niftylift has said that it continues to advance safety in powered access equipment by focusing on the practical risks of working at height.
Although industry statistics show improvement in workplace incident rates, the company remains committed to driving further innovation through smarter engineering and user-friendly technology.
One of its standout developments is the ToughCage platform, which combines a reinforced steel cage with a robust, impact-resistant composite base.
This dual-layer protection not only shields the operator in the event of a collision but also absorbs impact energy to minimise damage to the machine’s boom and surrounding structures.
To tackle the challenges of working on sloped ground, Niftylift has equipped its MEWPs with Inclination Sensing technology.
While machines can travel across gradients beyond operational limits when booms are stowed, any attempt to elevate the booms on a slope triggers alarms and disables the drive function.
The booms must be lowered and the machine repositioned before operations can resume, preventing unsafe working conditions on unstable terrain.
If the basket is raised and the tilt angle becomes too steep, the machine automatically halts drive functions until safely reset.
Operator safety also depends on proper use of personal fall protection equipment.
Niftylift addresses this with its intuitive ClipOn system, which provides red and green LED indicators and an audible alert to confirm harnesses are correctly attached before work begins.
Trapping incidents remain one of the most severe risks when working at height, especially if an operator is forced against the control panel.
In response, Niftylift introduced SiOPS (Sustained Involuntary Operation Prevention System) across all self-propelled machines.
SiOPS detects pressure on the control console, immediately halting all machine movements without waiting for a user response, allowing the operator to recover by simply pressing a flashing green reset button.
Further reinforcing safety protocols is Load Sensing technology, which monitors platform weight in real time.
If the system detects an overload, it disables all work functions until the weight is reduced. During operation, a recovery override allows the basket to be safely lowered first.
Supporting these built-in safeguards is Niftylink, a telematics solution that provides performance insights, real-time diagnostics, and access control.
Using PIN codes or RFID-enabled PAL cards, Niftylink ensures that only trained and authorised personnel can operate the machines, reinforcing on-site compliance and reducing the risk of human error.
Recognising that many incidents result from knowledge gaps, Niftylift also launched the NiftyPRO mobile app, an on-demand training and support tool for operators, fleet managers, and technicians.
With over 100 video tutorials covering machine operation, troubleshooting, and recovery procedures, the app bridges the gap between theoretical training and real-world application, making best practices easily accessible on-site and in the moment.
By combining smart safety features, operator-focused design, and accessible digital training, Niftylift offers a comprehensive approach to making work at height safer, more efficient, and better supported.
“Niftylift is synonymous with innovations in operator safety, introducing technologies over the years that have redefined safety standards, addressing critical risks in working at height, including entrapment, overloading, harness misuse, and unsafe tilting,” said Tom Hadden, technical sales manager, Niftylift. ‘Together, they enhance operational efficiency and provide operators with the confidence they need to work safely at height. We are committed to continuing to lead the industry in promoting safer working practices worldwide.”
Also read: Niftylift's real-time harness safety compliance in access platforms
The British Safety Industry Federation (BSIF) has warned against the use of substandard PPE, and highlighted its wide availability in the UK market
The BSIF notes that that a recent recall of safety shoes sold via TikTok highlights this issue, where the recalled product claimed to offer protection despite failing to meet essential safety requirements. Similar footwear remains on sale on other platforms.
The shoes in question have now been recalled by the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) thanks to the work of Lewis Collantine, a product safety consultant specialising in trading standards.
According to the OPSS the product, “presents a serious risk of injuries because although advertised as ‘anti-smash’ and ‘anti-puncture,’ there is no evidence it has undergone conformity assessment as PPE and it is not CE or UKCA marked.”
“The product does not meet the requirements of the Regulation (EU) 2016/425 on Personal Protective Equipment or the Personal Protective Equipment (Enforcement) Regulations 2018.”
Alan Murray, BSIF chief executive officer, said, “No surprises here. The BSIF has been aware of a burgeoning volume of substandard footwear available on platforms such as TikTok for some time, but we are pleased to see Trading Standards take action and we must applaud the work of Lewis Collantine, who has been instrumental in bringing this example to light.
“This is exactly why the new Product Safety and Metrology Bill needs to ensure there are real ramifications for online suppliers who fail to provide properly certified products. Employers and users deserve confidence that PPE described as protective genuinely meets standards and offers the protection it claims.”
The BSIF warns that many of these products are unwittingly purchased by individuals who have been given budgets to buy their own PPE but may not fully understand the rules, regulations, and certification requirements surrounding safety products.
Murray stresses that substandard PPE claiming to be protective does not protect workers, and can put lives at risk.
Roy Wilders, BSIF Registered Safety Supplier Scheme manager, said that the BSIF’s latest statistics show a 90% failure rate for products bought and tested from non-registered suppliers, compared to products from BSIF Registered Safety Suppliers, where almost 90% of products passed all the test criteria and where issues arose, they were immediately rectified.
The BSIF reiterates the importance of buying PPE only from BSIF Registered Safety Suppliers, who are committed to supplying certified and compliant products that keep workers safe.
Teledyne Gas & Flame Detection (Teledyne GFD) has partnered with Industrial Detection Solutions (IDS) to establish a 699 m² manufacturing facility in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, marking a significant step towards localising production of advanced gas detection technologies in the Kingdom.
The facility, which opened on 19 June 2025, will produce high-precision sensors used in hazardous environments such as oil and gas drilling sites, LNG/CNG plants, and petrochemical facilities.
The initiative supports Saudi Arabia’s IKTVA programme, which encourages economic diversification and local supply chain development in the energy sector.
By bringing manufacturing closer to end users and suppliers, the partnership is expected to reduce lead times and enhance safety support across the region.
Key products to be produced at the new plant include Teledyne GFD’s DM-700 toxic gas sensor, and the FP-700 and IR-700 sensors for combustible gas detection.
These ‘smart’ sensors offer non-intrusive monitoring using electrochemical, catalytic bead, and infrared technologies, with robust designs that resist common causes of failure such as water ingress, corrosion, and vibration.
“Our new partnership with Industrial Detection Solutions ensures that manufacturing is closer to both customers and suppliers, enabling even faster delivery of class-leading gas detection products in support of more efficient supply chains,” said Thomas Moeller, VP Sales & Marketing at Teledyne GFD. “The proven solutions manufactured in KSA will better serve a vast regional industry that recognises the importance of a robust and prevalent safety culture. We are proud to be part of KSA’s remarkable ongoing journey of economic and industrial growth, and we look forward to a successful future together.”
Teledyne GFD recently also introduced the PS DUO, a new portable dual-gas detector designed to improve personal safety in hazardous environments. The compact handheld device can detect two gases simultaneously using passive diffusion sensing, and features real-time monitoring with audible, visual and vibrating alarms to alert users when gas levels exceed safe limits.
The PS DUO offers a broad selection of gas combinations including carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), sulphur dioxide (SO₂), ammonia (NH₃), oxygen (O₂), hydrogen (H₂), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and ozone (O₃). Its ATEX/IECEx rating and 2-year warranty make it ideal for industrial settings. Users can select gas pairings tailored to their specific applications, such as H₂S and SO₂, particularly relevant in Middle Eastern operations.
The detector features a bright LCD screen displaying continuous gas concentration, wireless connectivity for easy data transfer, and internal memory capable of storing 30 alarm logs. Housed in a rugged IP67-rated rubberised casing, the PS DUO is lightweight (200g), ergonomic, and designed for comfort and ease of use in demanding environments. It runs for up to two years on a single replaceable battery.
The global occupational health market is on an upward trajectory, valued at approximately US$4.8bn in 2023 and projected to reach nearly US$8.5bn by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5%.
According to Credence Research, this sustained growth is being driven by increasing awareness of workplace safety, mental health, and chronic disease prevention, alongside regulatory pressure and the growing size of the global workforce.
Sectors such as construction, manufacturing, mining, and healthcare are witnessing rising demand for occupational health services, including health screenings, injury prevention, ergonomic support, and psychological care.
As organisations face growing expectations to ensure safe, compliant, and resilient working environments, they are investing more heavily in structured health programmes.
The integration of telemedicine, wearable devices, and data analytics is enabling a shift from reactive to proactive occupational healthcare, expanding access and improving efficiency.
With the workforce becoming more diverse and mobile, spanning hybrid models, remote work, and an ageing demographic, occupational health solutions are evolving to meet a wider set of needs across both developed and emerging economies.
Occupational health is increasingly viewed as a strategic business function rather than a compliance burden. Businesses are adopting preventive health strategies such as wellness programmes and stress reduction initiatives not only to protect staff but also to enhance productivity and reduce long-term costs.
Regulatory frameworks are tightening globally, especially in high-risk industries like mining and chemicals, pushing companies to implement regular health monitoring, risk assessments, and employee safety training.
At the same time, digital tools are revolutionising service delivery. Telehealth consultations, real-time data monitoring, and predictive analytics are transforming occupational health from a periodic check-up model to a continuous care approach. These innovations are especially valuable in managing decentralised and gig workforces, where traditional models are less effective.
Despite this momentum, several barriers remain. In many small-to-medium enterprises, particularly in developing regions, occupational health is still seen as a discretionary cost. Limited awareness, budget constraints, and insufficient regulatory enforcement all contribute to low uptake.
Moreover, the fragmented nature of global regulations complicates implementation for multinational companies. Inconsistent standards between countries make it difficult to deploy uniform occupational health protocols across geographies.
Finally, while digital solutions offer great potential, companies often face significant hurdles in adoption. These include concerns around data privacy, technical integration of health platforms, and employee apprehension about monitoring tools. Unless addressed, these challenges could slow the pace of transformation in the occupational health sector.
Ergodyne, a leading manufacturer of safety work gear, has expanded its range of safety glasses with new designs that prioritise both style and on-the-job performance.
With a focus on encouraging consistent wear through comfort and aesthetics, the latest additions reflect the company’s ongoing commitment to practical, protective eyewear.
Featuring sleek, classic silhouettes alongside more modern blade-style frames, the new releases offer an updated look for the job site, while delivering robust protection and comfort during extended wear.
At the forefront of the launch is SIXTEN, a versatile frame combining everyday style with job site toughness. Optional polarised mirrored lenses help reduce glare and eye fatigue, while the upgraded Fog-Off+ technology ensures clarity in humid and temperature-variable environments.
Also returning with new features is AEGIR, known for its aggressive wraparound design, now available with high-contrast, colour-enhancing lenses and a refreshed palette of frame colours. Both models have been engineered with real-world usage in mind, with emphasis on staying power, visibility, and durability.
The Skullerz SIXTEN and AEGIR safety glasses from Ergodyne are engineered for high-performance protection and comfort on tough job sites. The SIXTEN offers durable construction with anti-fog, anti-scratch lenses and optional polarisation to reduce glare and eye strain in variable conditions. The AEGIR, built with an oversized wraparound design, now includes high-contrast lenses that improve visibility and colour recognition in challenging environments. Both models are equipped with Ergodyne’s Fog-Off+ technology, helping workers maintain clear vision in humid or extreme temperatures.
“In terms of style, they're built to stand out. But once the work begins, the best compliment is forgetting they're even there... no slipping, no fogging, no distractions,” said Justin Schuetz, Product Manager at Ergodyne. “They look great. They feel great. And most importantly, they'll help prevent you from adding to the 2,000 or so work-related eye injuries that happen in the U.S. every year."
"Safety glasses shouldn’t look or feel like a compromise," said Ergodyne President, Greg Schrab. “Workers won’t wear what gets in the way. These don’t. That’s the whole point.”
The latest annual fatality statistics from the UK’s Health & Safety Executive (HSE) show that 124 workers were killed in work-related incidents in Great Britain from April 2024 to March 2025, fourteen fewer than in the previous 12-month period
This compares to 223 twenty years ago (2004/05) and 495 in 1981.
The figures relate to work-related accidents and do not include deaths arising from occupational diseases or diseases arising from certain occupational exposures.
The industries accounting for the highest number of deaths were construction (35) and agriculture, forestry and fishing (23). Agriculture, forestry and fishing continues to have the highest rate of fatal injury per 100,000 workers, followed by waste and recycling.
The most common cause of fatal injuries continues to be falls from a height (35), representing over a quarter of worker deaths in 2024/25 and reflecting the global trend.
A further 92 people who were not at work were killed in work-related incidents in 2024/25, ie members of the public who were in a workplace but were not working themselves.
HSE’s chief executive Sarah Albon said, “Great Britain is one of the safest places in the world to work, but we must remember each of these deaths represents a tragedy for families, friends and communities.
“Despite the stability in numbers, we cannot accept that fatal accidents are an inevitable part of working life. We are encouraged by the long-term trend but urge against complacency on workplace safety."
Qatar has taken a major step forward in strengthening maritime safety standards with the launch of the Maritime Training and Simulation Center (MTSC) at the University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST).
Inaugurated by the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Transport, H.E. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Maadeed, and the University’s President, H.E. Dr. Salem bin Nasser Al-Naemi, the MTSC is the first facility of its kind in the country dedicated to advancing maritime operations through world-class training.
The MTSC is equipped with cutting-edge simulation technologies that provide realistic, scenario-based training in navigation, full-mission engine control, and emergency response.
Its facilities include state-of-the-art classrooms and safety training environments for firefighting, first aid, and other critical risk management procedures.
Certified by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the centre’s programmes are designed to meet international safety standards and ensure that Qatar’s maritime workforce is equipped to handle both routine operations and high-risk situations.
During the inauguration, H.E. Al-Maadeed toured the facility and received a first-hand demonstration of the centre’s advanced training systems, which are expected to significantly enhance the capabilities of maritime professionals in Qatar. The centre’s interactive simulations enable real-time learning and safety drills, reinforcing decision-making skills in complex and high-pressure environments.
The launch coincided with the signing of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Transport and UDST, which formalises a long-term collaboration to support Qatar’s maritime sector. The agreement aims to drive continuous safety improvement through international certification programmes, research partnerships, and knowledge sharing.
By prioritising safety training and technological innovation, the MTSC will play a critical role in developing a resilient and skilled maritime workforce, strengthening Qatar’s leadership in safe, efficient, and sustainable maritime operations.
H.E. Al-Maadeed said, "Inaugurating the MTSC today marks a significant milestone embodying Qatari educational institution’s commitment to enhancing the country’s maritime infrastructure and capabilities through such training facilities equipped with state-of-the-art world technologies. As the global maritime landscape evolves, preparing our workforce to lead with expertise and resilience is essential.”
Today’s MoU with UDST, he added, “is a cornerstone of MOT’s broader action plans that aim at further enhancing our maritime transportation ecosystem to contribute to achieving sustainable development of that vital industry.”
H.E. the Undersecretary thanked those in charge of those initiatives at UDST and thought the day was a promising day for the future of Qatar’s maritime industry.
His Excellency Dr. Al-Naemi, President of UDST, expressed the university’s pride in this achievement, "This centre represents more than just a facility, it is a strategic national asset that embodies our shared commitment to applied, industry-driven education. Through this collaboration with the Ministry of Transport, we are providing opportunities for hands-on learning with the most advanced simulation technologies in the region. Our mission is to ensure that Qatar’s maritime professionals graduate with the skills, confidence, and competence to meet the highest international standards. This initiative directly supports Qatar’s goals for economic diversification and maritime leadership."
Qatar Tourism, in partnership with the General Directorate of Traffic, has held a dedicated road safety awareness workshop as part of the country’s ongoing efforts to ensure a safe and reliable tourism environment.
The session brought together tour guides, travel agencies, and licensed tour operators to highlight the legal and safety requirements for organising tourist transportation across Qatar.
The initiative aimed to reinforce awareness of safety protocols and traffic regulations that must be followed when transporting tourists between destinations.
Specialists led interactive sessions and open discussions, providing practical guidance on compliance with the Traffic Law, and offering insights into common violations that often lead to road accidents.
Key focus areas included ensuring tour operators understand the legal obligations that apply to road use during guided excursions, promoting responsible driving behaviour, and encouraging the adoption of best practices for safe tourist mobility.
The workshop also examined strategies to minimise unsafe conduct in tourist zones and ensure that both domestic and international visitors can enjoy seamless and secure experiences.
Brigadier Jassim Nasser Al-Hamidi, Director of the Media and Traffic Awareness Department at the General Directorate of Traffic, reiterated the department’s commitment to supporting Qatar’s tourism sector by fostering a culture of traffic law awareness.
He stressed the importance of ongoing education efforts through seminars, lectures, and awareness campaigns to safeguard tourists and enhance their experience throughout the country.
This workshop is part of Qatar Tourism’s wider strategy to elevate the standards of professionalism within the tourism industry and ensure that safety, training, and compliance remain integral to the visitor journey.
The initiative supports Qatar’s broader vision of positioning itself as a safe and attractive regional destination.
Commenting on the initiative, Mr. Fahad Hassan Al-Abdulmalik, Director of Tourism Licensing at Qatar Tourism, said, “At Qatar Tourism, visitor safety is a top priority. This workshop is part of our continued commitment to enhancing the efficiency of the tourism sector and improving the preparedness of its workforce, particularly tour guides and operators, who serve as the first point of experience for visitors. These interactive workshops present an important opportunity to instil a culture of responsibility and compliance with traffic regulations, while also contributing to the development of effective partnerships between government bodies and the private sector, reflecting a spirit of cooperation in building a safe and inclusive tourism environment.”