Industrial Insights
Industrial Insights
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Industrial Insights
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 23 May 2025
- Year: 2025
As temperatures heat up, Oman’s Ministry of Labor, represented by the Occupational Safety and Health Department, has launched the SafeSummer campaign
The campaign aims to raise awareness among workers and employers about the risks of heat stress during the summer and the need to take preventative measures to preserve the health and safety of workers, especially in open workplaces exposed to direct sunlight.
Oman’s regulations prohibit outdoor work at construction sites or open areas exposed to high temperatures from 12.30-3.30 pm during June, July and August to protect workers from heat-related illness and injury.
The Ministry stresses the importance of adhering to the midday work stoppage and urges private sector companies to comply with the rule to avoid penalties and ensure worker safety.
It comes as the country has experienced very high temperatures of more than 45 degrees in some areas, and as higher temperatures and more frequent and severe heatwaves are recorded globally due to the impact of climate change.
Oman’s Ministry of Labor, represented by the Occupational Safety and Health Department, in cooperation with the Ministry of Public Health, recently organised an awareness seminar for workers and employees of MedGulf Construction Company. It educated participants on methods and techniques for preventing heat stress, as well as the importance of avoiding direct exposure to sunlight and adhering to safety guidelines and standards at work sites.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration distributed cooling suits, which help lower body temperature and protect workers from heat stress using advanced cooling technology.
Elsewhere in the GCC
The other Gulf states also enforce midday work bans during the summer months, as well as implementing measures to combat heat stress. The UAE, for example, prohibits all types of work carried out under direct sunlight and in open spaces form 12.30-3pm from 15 June to 15 September. Employers are required to provide shaded areas for workers, adequate cooling devices, sufficient drinking water and first aid equipment at work sites.
Saudi Arabia prohibits outdoor work from 12-3pm from 15 June to 15 September. The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has issued guidance on mitigating heat stress, including breaks, rest areas, regular hydration, working in teams and immediate response to heat stress symptoms.
Many companies in the region run summer safety campaigns to raise awareness of the dangers of occupational heat stress. Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) for example has run a yearly 'Beat the Heat' programme for over a decade, a comprehensive, summer-long initiative which focuses on raising awareness among employees about the early signs of heat-related illness and empowering them to take proactive measures to prevent its onset.
It incorporates several measures to prevent heat-related illnesses, including hydration tests conducted before and during shifts, regular breaks, and cooling showers. The programme also features cooling booths, drinking stations, icemakers, and portable air conditioning units installed throughout the production areas to ensure that both employees and contractors remain cool and comfortable during their work shifts.
Heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke pose a significant risk for anyone working outdoors during the intense summer heat, and can pose a threat to life if not addressed promptly. In the longer term, heat stress can lead to the development of serious chronic diseases. Furthermore, as the ILO points out, the mental health impacts must also be considered, as well the numerous accidents and injuries caused by impaired mental performance, slippery and heated surfaces and unsuitable personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 22 May, 2025
- Year: 2025
NSF, a global public health and safety organisation, has officially opened its new Middle East headquarters in Dubai Science Park.
The company said ina press statement, "This strategic move marks a major step in NSF’s 40-year journey in the region, underlining its long-term commitment to supporting public health and advancing safety standards across the Middle East."
The new facility will serve as the central hub for NSF’s activities across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), aligning with its global mission to improve human and planetary health.
It will provide comprehensive services to the regional water industry, including testing, auditing and certification.
Building on a strong regional presence, NSF has already certified thousands of companies, playing an instrumental role in enhancing public health safeguards.
James Howe, vice president of NSF EMEA, commented on the expansion, “NSF’s new MENA headquarters in Dubai Science Park marks a pivotal moment in NSF’s history in the region. This new facility will allow us to better serve our clients and partners across the region, bringing our global expertise and standards closer to local markets. We’re excited about the opportunities this presents for collaboration and growth.”
NSF has been setting global benchmarks in water safety for over 80 years.
In the MENA region, a key focus has been on improving water quality and safety standards.
Its well-established drinking water standard, NSF/ANSI/CAN 61, was recently adopted into the technical specifications of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA).
Ahmad Onnab, senior manager Water, Middle East & Africa at NSF, stressed the significance of this development: “Water safety is a critical issue in the MENA region. Our new headquarters will strengthen our ability to work with local authorities, governments, businesses, and communities to ensure the highest standards of water quality, safety and sustainability. International standards such as NSF/ANSI 60 and 61 have been instrumental in improving water treatment processes across the region and are increasingly mandated by national water regulations in the region, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Oman. We look forward to building on this foundation, helping this region on its journey to safer and healthier water systems.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 21 May, 2025
- Year: 2025
WEG, a global leader in energy and automation solutions, has launched a state-of-the-art Utility-Scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Europe, designed with a strong emphasis on safety, reliability, and sustainability.
This comprehensive energy storage solution addresses the growing need for secure and efficient energy systems, offering flexible integration for diverse applications while prioritising operational safety.
The WEG BESS is a modular, scalable system tailored for power generation plants, transmission and distribution centers, and renewable energy integrations.
It supports on-grid, off-grid, and microgrid operations, ensuring energy resilience while incorporating advanced safety mechanisms to protect both the system and its environment.
Central to the WEG BESS is its sophisticated Energy Management System (EMS), which provides real-time monitoring and control for seamless integration into existing electrical networks.
The system is engineered with robust safety features, including advanced HVAC systems for thermal regulation and state-of-the-art fire control mechanisms to mitigate risks and ensure safe operation across diverse conditions.
Enhancing safety
High charging and discharging speeds, high energy density, and low maintenance requirements further enhance its reliability and safety profile.
"Safety and reliability are at the core of our Utility-Scale BESS," said Marek Lukaszczyk, marketing manager at WEG. "This system not only meets the demand for sustainable energy but also ensures secure and dependable operation, safeguarding infrastructure and communities."
The WEG BESS is designed with environmental and operational safety in mind. It produces no pollution, integrates seamlessly with renewable energy sources, and offers an extended service life, minimising environmental impact and maintenance risks.
The system supports critical energy functions such as peak shaving, load leveling, voltage and frequency regulation, and spinning reserves, all while maintaining stringent safety standards.
Applications for the WEG BESS are extensive, with safety as a key focus. In power generation, it enhances energy quality through voltage and frequency regulation while ensuring stable and secure power supply.
For transmission and distribution, it reduces peak demand and balances loads, deferring costly infrastructure upgrades while maintaining operational safety.
The system’s versatility includes black start capabilities, power factor regulation, and energy shifting, enabling safe and adaptable energy management.
Built with precision-engineered components, including a bidirectional converter, battery bank, power transformer, and a custom-designed E-House, the WEG BESS is a fully customisable solution.
These components are designed to work in harmony, ensuring safe, reliable, and efficient performance tailored to each installation’s unique requirements.
With the launch of its Utility-Scale BESS, WEG reinforces its commitment to advancing energy sustainability while prioritising safety.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 20 May 2025
- Year: 2025
Andrew Dennant, general manager for HIMA Middle East FZE highlights the need for advanced systems to be integrated into the hydrogen value chain to ensure the successful and secure adoption of hydrogen in line with the UAE's sustainability goals
As the global energy landscape transitions toward sustainability, hydrogen has emerged as a promising resource, particularly for nations such as the UAE, where clean energy and sustainability are central to national priorities. While hydrogen offers substantial potential as an energy source and reduces carbon emissions, its safe use requires advanced functional safety solutions, especially in large-scale industrial applications.
The role of hydrogen in a sustainable future
Hydrogen is gaining increasing attention as a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Currently, most hydrogen used in industrial processes is derived from natural gas, commonly called grey hydrogen. However, green hydrogen, produced from water using renewable energy sources such as wind or solar power, is becoming increasingly significant. This process enables a substantial reduction in carbon emissions, positioning green hydrogen as a key component in the transition to a global zero-emission energy system.
In the UAE, green hydrogen is expected to play a crucial role in decarbonising various sectors, including power generation, transportation and heavy industry. While hydrogen’s adoption remains limited, its use is anticipated to grow significantly as both technology and infrastructure continue to evolve.
Safe use of hydrogen in industrial applications
Hydrogen is already widely utilised in industrial processes, such as ammonia production for fertilisers and in high-temperature manufacturing processes. Despite its advantages, hydrogen poses unique safety challenges due to its highly flammable nature. Leaks or uncontained releases of hydrogen can result in significant safety hazards. Therefore, hydrogen must be handled with the utmost care during production, storage and transportation.
Ensuring the safe use of hydrogen in industrial settings requires the deployment of advanced safety solutions. These systems must be designed to mitigate the specific application risks if hydrogen is to be used safely throughout their entire lifecycle.
Functional safety solutions for hydrogen
In large-scale operations, such as power plants or industrial facilities, advanced safety systems are essential for managing the inherent risks of hydrogen. A key example is the hydrogen production process, which involves the use of electrolysers to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. These systems require comprehensive safety functions to monitor and safeguard critical factors such as pressure and temperature. As the scale of hydrogen production increases, the complexity and sophistication of safety systems must evolve to match the rising risks associated with large-scale operations.
Transportation and storage: the key challenges
Transportation and storage of hydrogen present additional safety challenges. Due to hydrogen’s molecular properties, it is a highly permeable gas that can leak through even the smallest of cracks in pipelines, posing significant risks. To prevent leaks, advanced leak detection systems are essential. These systems monitor pipelines and storage tanks, providing early warnings and enabling swift corrective action in the event of a leak. Hydrogen storage also requires specialised safety measures. Safety protocols must ensure that storage facilities are equipped with fail-safe systems to mitigate potential risks.
Hydrogen in public transportation: safe and clean
In the UAE, hydrogen is being explored as an alternative fuel for public transportation. Hydrogen-powered buses, trains and other vehicles offer a cleaner alternative to conventional fossil fuel-powered transportation, especially in urban areas where reducing emissions is a priority. However, the integration of hydrogen into public transportation systems requires careful planning and implementation of advanced safety measures.
Safety systems must be developed to manage the use of electricity or hydrogen, depending on the infrastructure. In areas without such infrastructure, hydrogen may serve as the primary energy source. This hybrid approach ensures the safe and efficient operation of hydrogen-powered transportation.
Smart security for safe hydrogen use
As the use of digital technologies and automation in hydrogen systems increases, cybersecurity becomes an increasingly critical aspect of functional safety. The potential for cyberattacks on hydrogen production, storage and transportation systems presents a significant risk to safe and reliable operations. Therefore, it is essential to implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect these systems from malicious threats.
As the UAE continues to innovate in hydrogen technology, safeguarding these systems from cyber threats will be as crucial as the physical safety protocols in place to protect against other risks.
Looking ahead
The UAE is well-positioned to become a global leader in hydrogen production, particularly with its strong commitment to clean energy. However, to fully realise the potential of hydrogen as a key component of the UAE’s energy strategy, advanced safety solutions must be integrated across the entire hydrogen value chain. From production and storage to transportation and end use, these safety systems must evolve in tandem with technological advancements to mitigate risks and ensure the safe and efficient use of hydrogen.
By prioritising functional safety solutions, the UAE can lead by example in demonstrating how hydrogen can be safely and effectively harnessed as a clean energy source, further supporting the nation’s ambitious energy goals and contributing to global efforts toward a sustainable, zero-emission future.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Technology
- Topic: Technology
- Date: 19 May 2025
- Year: 2025
The World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean has launched an All-Hazard Information Management (AIM) Toolkit, which leverages generative artificial intelligence to reduce the time needed to produce critical response documents from weeks to minutes
The AIM Toolkit equips WHO and health authorities with a rapid, reliable and context-sensitive mechanism to guide emergency decision-making, as the region wrestles with multiple emergencies from disease outbreaks to climate-related shocks and conflict.
The Toolkit enables WHO teams to access and organise technical guidance from WHO and partners; structure response frameworks around clearly defined objectives, actions and indicators; automatically tailor essential documents, including risk assessments and response plans, to specific countries and hazards; and identify potential gaps and ensure technical completeness under time constraints.
It thereby enables experts to focus on high-level analysis and strategic decision-making rather than document production, significantly accelerating early response while preserving adherence to WHO standards.
“In a context of shrinking resources, we are constantly asked to do better with less and still meet rising needs across the Region,” said Dr Ahmed Zouiten, regional emergency director ad-interim. “The AIM Toolkit is not just about speed. It’s a game-changer in how we use knowledge, turning global guidance into real-time, country-specific action, powered by AI. This is how we help countries respond faster, smarter and with greater precision in times when it matters most.”
It is anticipated that in the future the AIM Toolkit will be developed to incorporate real-time health data, support the development of workflows and standard operating procedures and further strengthen regional readiness and resilience.
The WHO sees the AIM toolkit as a step forward in ensuring that no community is left behind in times of crisis, underlining a shared commitment to protect the most vulnerable, strengthen health systems and ensure that every response is grounded in equity, evidence and solidarity.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Topic: Industrial
- Date: 16 May, 2025
- Year: 2025
WakeCap, the sensor-powered project intelligence and controls platform trusted by major construction and oil and gas programmes, has raised US$28mn in a Series A round to accelerate its mission of making jobsites safer and more efficient.
The funding round was led by UP.Partners, with participation from Graphene Ventures and strategic investors across the US, Saudi Arabia, and Asia.
At the core of WakeCap’s platform is a commitment to safety. By providing live, site-wide visibility into workforce activity, safety risks, and incident response, WakeCap helps transform construction sites into safer, smarter workplaces. With over 150 million labour hours tracked and deployments on US$80bn worth of projects including Aramco, NEOM, Qiddiya, and King Salman Park.
WakeCap has proven its ability to reduce safety issues by 91% and improve incident response times by 70%.
"WakeCap's ability to capture and act on real-time jobsite data is critical for high-performing project controls,” said Dr. Hassan Albalawi, CEO and founder of WakeCap. “This round fuels our next stage of growth as we expand our global footprint, increasing the value we deliver to customers through richer insights, faster reporting, and greater operational efficiency. It will allow us to deepen integrations with key ecosystem partners such as Oracle and OpenSpace. We’re proud to be building a platform that puts workers first, makes jobsites safer, and brings clarity to the world’s most complex construction efforts.”
Increasing efficiency
By combining rugged, wearable hardware with enterprise-ready software, WakeCap ensures real-time visibility across critical jobsite functions, from worker access and equipment tracking to hazard alerts and compliance reporting. Unlike traditional systems, WakeCap’s non-intrusive technology works without disrupting operations, helping safety teams respond proactively rather than reactively.
“WakeCap sits at the intersection of two massive forces – the scale of global infrastructure investment and the digitisation of construction,” said Adam Grosser, chairman and managing Partner at UP.Partners. “As governments and developers undertake trillion-dollar initiatives, WakeCap’s platform brings truth, transparency, and trust to the field. We are thrilled to back Hassan and the team as they scale globally and lead the transformation of this critical industry.”
WakeCap’s rapid growth reflects a wider shift in how safety and digital transformation are converging in construction. As one of the first Saudi-founded startups to acquire a Silicon Valley tech company, the firm now operates across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Japan, and the US, with a team of professionals from 34 nationalities.
“WakeCap exemplifies what the future of construction looks like: intelligent, connected, and global,” said Nabil Borhanu, founder and managing partner at Graphene Ventures. “We continue to support WakeCap because they are uniquely positioned to lead this transformation, with a proven platform, a mission-driven culture, and deep partnerships across public and private sectors.”
The newly raised capital will be directed toward expanding WakeCap’s presence in strategic markets, enhancing its safety-focused capabilities, and integrating with leading industry platforms. The company is also scaling its workforce across engineering, product, and customer success teams.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Topic: Industrial
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 15 May, 2025
- Year: 2025
EcoOnline, a leading global provider of safety and sustainability solutions, has announced its strategic expansion into the Middle East, strengthening its commitment to support the region’s evolving industrial landscape and regulatory transformation.
The move aligns with the growing demand for robust Environment, Health and Safety (EHS) and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) practices across key sectors such as construction, manufacturing, and energy.
To lead this next phase of regional growth, EcoOnline has appointed Nicholas Matta as regional director, Middle East.
A seasoned safety and compliance professional, Nicholas offers a comprehensive perspective on how organisations manage risk, compliance, and operational change.
Previously in a leadership role at Enablon, Nicholas is widely recognised for fostering culturally attuned relationships throughout the region.
At EcoOnline, he will oversee partner engagement, customer adoption, and go-to-market strategy in the Middle East, while also managing business development in the Benelux region.
Nicholas stated, “I am proud to be part of EcoOnline’s journey in the fast-growing Middle East region. There is a clear opportunity to close market gaps in areas like lone worker protection and chemical safety — challenges that are too often overlooked despite their risk. EcoOnline is uniquely positioned to address these needs with intuitive, people-centered solutions that deliver lasting impact at every level of an organisation.”
Rising demand driven by national transformation
The Middle East’s momentum is being propelled by large-scale initiatives like Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the upcoming World Expo 2035, and landmark projects such as The Line within the US$500bn NEOM development.
Since the inception of Vision 2030 in 2016, Saudi Arabia has witnessed a 60% surge in industrial facilities. Meanwhile, the IMF projects a 6.7% cumulative economic growth over the next two years.
As infrastructure and energy ventures accelerate and workforce nationalisation programmes such as Saudization advance, the demand for safe, compliant, and sustainable operations is increasing.
Companies in core sectors are under growing pressure to meet international benchmarks — not only in sustainability reporting, but also in managing frontline risks and building resilient safety cultures.
Gareth Palmer, SVP Channel & Alliances at EcoOnline, said,“The Middle East is at a critical inflection point, with ambitious national agendas driving industrial growth and employment. We see a clear opportunity — and responsibility — to help companies build a safer, more sustainable world of work. By combining local expertise with a global partner ecosystem, we can support organisations navigating this transformation — not just with technology, but with long-term, trust-based collaboration.”
Expanding footprint through strong partnerships
EcoOnline is already establishing a presence in the region through key partnerships with global firms such as DSS+, VPWhite, and WSP. This expansion into the Middle East builds on the company’s success across Europe, North America, ANZ, and South Africa.
It underlines EcoOnline’s commitment to delivering intuitive digital solutions that reduce complexity and empower organisations to enhance safety performance, comply with regulatory standards, and meet sustainability goals.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Topic: Industrial
- Region: Europe
- Date: 13 May, 2025
- Year: 2025
Workplace accidents don’t just cause harm. They disrupt operations, damage reputations, and can result in serious financial and legal consequences.
According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), over 2.78 million workers die each year from occupational accidents or work-related diseases globally, with an additional 374 million non-fatal injuries and illnesses annually.
A clear, well-structured Health & Safety (H&S) policy is the foundation for preventing incidents and creating a culture of safety.
To help organisations take that first step, Astutis has released a free, expert-led guide: "Creating a Health and Safety Policy: A Step-by-Step Guide."
Why a health & safety policy matters
In the UK alone, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) reported that 1.8 million workers suffered from work-related ill health in 2022/23, and 135 workers lost their lives due to fatal workplace injuries.
Across the EU and globally, similar patterns persist, costing economies an estimated 4% of global GDP each year due to lost productivity, treatment costs, and compensation.
A comprehensive policy helps your organisation:
• Comply with legal and regulatory frameworks (such as ISO 45001 or local legislation).
• Clarify responsibilities across departments and leadership levels.
• Demonstrate a visible commitment to employee welfare.
• Reduce operational risks and insurance premiums.
• Respond effectively in emergencies, inspections, or audits.
What’s inside the free guide
Astutis’ eBook is built for professionals across industries and international regions, offering:
• A breakdown of the three key elements every policy should include: Statement of Intent, Responsibilities, and Arrangements.
• Insights from H&S professionals who have implemented policies for global organisations.
• Common mistakes to avoid and tips for adapting policies for remote, hybrid, or international teams.
Whether you're managing a team of 5 or 500, this guide makes it easier to build a policy that protects your people and your business.
Trusted by global organisations
Astutis trains thousands of professionals every year across more than 180 countries.
From SMEs to large corporations, our training and resources are built on real-world expertise and global safety standards.
Create a safer, smarter workplace today. Access your free “Creating a Health and Safety Policy” eBook and take the first step toward stronger compliance and a safer future.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 13 May 2025
- Year: 2025
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a highly toxic gas found in various industrial settings, and understanding the difference between low and high concentrations is crucial, says MSA Safety
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a colorless, highly toxic gas with a characteristic rotten egg smell at low concentrations. It is commonly found in industries such as oil and gas, wastewater treatment, and mining. Exposure to H2S poses serious health risks, ranging from mild irritation to fatal poisoning, depending on concentration levels. To ensure worker safety, it is essential to understand the differences between low and high concentrations and implement effective detection and protection strategies.
Low vs. high concentrations of H2S
At low concentrations (0.01–10 ppm), H2S emits a strong odor, which can serve as an initial warning. However, prolonged exposure, even at these levels, can cause eye irritation, headaches, and dizziness. Between 10–50 ppm, symptoms become more pronounced, including nausea and respiratory discomfort.
At higher concentrations, the risks increase dramatically:
- 50–100 ppm: Severe eye and respiratory irritation, with potential lung damage.
- 100–500 ppm: Loss of smell (olfactory fatigue), making the gas even more dangerous.
- 500–1000 ppm: Immediate collapse, unconsciousness, and life-threatening respiratory failure.
- 1000+ ppm: Rapid death within minutes due to respiratory paralysis.
Given these dangers, relying on the human sense of smell is ineffective. Instead, advanced gas detection technologies are critical for early warning and safety.
Enhancing safety with connected gas detection
MSA Safety’s ALTAIR io4 gas detector, part of the Connected Work Platform, provides real-time monitoring and instant alerts when H2S levels reach dangerous thresholds. Designed for harsh environments, the ALTAIR io4 enhances worker protection with features like:
- Automated Compliance: Ensuring devices remain properly calibrated and tested.
- Real-Time Alerts: Immediate notifications for exposure risks.
- Cloud-Based Data Management: Providing insights to improve workplace safety protocols.
Enter your details to watch the video to see how the ALTAIR io4 can protect your team.
Additional protection with MSA+ Services
Beyond detection, maintaining reliable equipment is key to ensuring continuous safety. MSA+ offers two essential services to optimize device performance:
- MSA+ Device Protection: Coverage for accidental damage and extended maintenance.
- MSA+ Autofill: Automated replacement of calibration gas and sensors to keep devices ready for use.
These services reduce downtime and operational costs while ensuring workers remain protected at all times.
Learn more about MSA+ Device Protection and MSA+ Autofill to keep your gas detection equipment in top condition.
Conclusion
Understanding the risks associated with H2S exposure and implementing reliable gas detection solutions are essential for workplace safety. The ALTAIR io4, combined with MSA+ services, provides a comprehensive approach to hazard detection and equipment maintenance. Prioritise safety by equipping your team with the right tools.
Enter your details to watch the video to see MSA Safety’s solutions in action.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Industrial
- Topic: Industrial
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 12 May 2025
- Year: 2025
Honeywell has launched a new gas detector assembly line at the Masdar Innovation Center in Abu Dhabi, in alignment with the UAE’s industrialisation and localisation objectives
This will focus on the assembly of Honeywell’s RAEGuard 3 Series – fixed toxic and flammable gas detectors using advanced sensor technology – along with the BW Clip Series of portable, single-gas detectors. Designed to protect industrial workers operating in potentially hazardous environments, these gas detectors will serve local and regional customers.
The new assembly line supports the ‘Make it in the Emirates’ campaign by expanding local manufacturing capabilities, creating jobs, upskilling local talent and accelerating technology transfer, strengthening the UAE’s position as a hub for advanced industrial technology. It will also support Operation 300Bn, the UAE’s strategic initiative to grow the industrial sector’s contribution to GDP from AED 133 billion to AED 300 billion by 2031.
“Honeywell has been a longstanding partner of the UAE, committed to empowering local industry and enabling economic diversification,” said George Bou Mitri, president, Honeywell Industrial Automation, Middle East, Turkey, Africa, Central Asia. “The launch of our new gas detector assembly line represents more than an expansion of our manufacturing footprint – it’s a step forward in shaping a smarter, safer, and more sustainable industrial future for the UAE.”
Honeywell opened the dedicated Masdar Innovation Center in Abu Dhabi’s Masdar City in 2019 to focus on local assembly, integration, and testing of advanced automation technologies. It enables faster delivery, local customisation, and technical support for customers across the UAE and wider Middle East, achieving full marks last year in the UAE’s Industrial Technology Transformation Index (ITTI), a national benchmark for digitalisation and sustainability excellence.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Training
- Topic: Training
- Date: 7 May, 2025
- Year: 2025
With construction continuing to rank among the most dangerous industries in the UK, NEBOSH has refreshed its Health and Safety Management for Construction qualification to better equip professionals tackling the sector’s evolving risks.
Between 2023 and 2024 alone, the industry accounted for 51 work-related fatalities in Great Britain, accounting for nearly 40% of all workplace deaths that year.
To strengthen its relevance, NEBOSH has updated the course content for 2025, incorporating feedback from past learners and input from a panel of industry experts.
New topics include managing fatigue and understanding the powers of inspectors, and the challenges increasingly faced on modern sites.
Designed for both UK and international learners, the UK version is aligned with Construction (Design and Management) Regulations, while the international pathway follows ILO guidance.
The course aims to help learners identify and control construction hazards, develop safe systems of work, contribute to incident investigations, and advise on legal responsibilities under construction legislation.
It also focuses on fostering a strong health and safety culture, improving contractor management, and giving learners the confidence to challenge unsafe behaviours.
Survey data indicates the qualification is well-received: 96% of UK respondents and 100% of international participants said they would recommend the course.
A similar majority reported improved skills in recognising risks and hazards in the construction environment. The Level 7 UK qualification remains recognised by the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS), with holders eligible to apply for the Academically Qualified Person (AQP) card.
Michael Smith, response supervisor - Housing Repairs for South Holland District Council, said, “I found the whole course extremely interesting; the study and work-based scenarios were good and worthwhile. I thought the content of the course was pitched correctly, and the syllabus covered it [the topic] in great depth. Having gained the qualification, I am now in a position where I feel that I can make a positive impact within the workplace.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- News
- Topic: Events
- Date: 7 February, 2025
- Year: 2025
Time is running out! Don’t miss your chance to attend the SafeStart Trainer Certification Level 1 Course in Dubai, UAE, on 18–19 February 2025.
This immersive two-day programme is your opportunity to:
✅ Enhance workplace safety and reduce incidents
✅ Gain expert insights into human factors and critical errors
✅ Become a certified SafeStart trainer and lead safety transformations in your organisation
Location: Media Rotana, Hessa Street, Dubai, UAE
⏰ Time: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
What past global participants had to say:
“My perspective on safety has completely changed!”
– L.V., Guadalajara, Mexico
“SafeStart concepts have taken my safety awareness to the highest level. More importantly, they’ve made me realise that safety is for life, not just for the workplace.” – B.S., São Paulo, Brazil
SafeStart is a globally recognised safety awareness process that helps organisations create a lasting culture of safety excellence. This course will provide you with practical tools and strategies to drive real change.
Limited seats available – register now!
https://events.offsnet.com/SafeStartTrainerCertificationWorkshop#/
Looking forward to seeing you in Dubai!
Larry Wilson
SafeStart Author and CEO