Industrial Insights
Industrial Insights
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 14 August 2025
- Year: 2025
Intersec Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom’s leading platform for the security, safety, and fire protection industries, will be held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Minister of Interior, in association with the General Directorate of Civil Defense.
Organised by 1st Arabia and licensed by Messe Frankfurt, the event will take place at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre (RICEC) from 29 September-1 October. This year marks the largest edition to date, featuring over 370 exhibitors and attracting more than 27,000 visitors, all focused on the specific needs of the Saudi market. The event serves as a platform for global innovators, government leaders, and industry pioneers to strengthen national resilience and support future growth.
CPD-certified content and specialised summits
Intersec Saudi now offers CPD-certified content theatres, providing attendees with accredited learning opportunities alongside the exhibition.
The highly anticipated Future Security Summit, powered by ASIS International Dhahran Chapter, will return, bringing together global experts to discuss the trends shaping public safety and national resilience. Topics will range from AI-driven surveillance and predictive policing to mega-event protection and critical infrastructure security, offering insights into both challenges and solutions that are shaping the security landscape in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
Fire Protection and Technology Summit
The Fire Protection and Technology Summit will also return, highlighting the future of fire and emergency response. International leaders will explore innovations in areas such as smart city firefighting, high-rise rescue, HAZMAT response, and regional disaster collaboration. Key themes include talent investment for building human capital in fire protection and safety at scale, as well as strategies for safeguarding GIGA developments during large-scale events in the Kingdom.
By combining large-scale exhibition opportunities with high-level summits, Intersec Saudi Arabia continues to provide a comprehensive platform for professionals and organisations to engage, learn, and advance the security, safety, and fire protection sectors in the Kingdom.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 13 August 2025
- Year: 2025
In July 2025, Oman’s Ministry of Labour, through the General Directorate of Labour in South Sharqiyah Governorate, carried out a series of inspections at private sector workplaces to promote occupational health and safety compliance, Muscat Daily reported.
Over the course of the month, ministry teams conducted 81 awareness visits, engaging 304 employers and employees across 90 establishments.
The initiative aimed to increase understanding of the Labour Law, raise awareness of heat stress risks, and ensure that safety protocols were effectively implemented.
During these visits, officials provided practical advice on measures to safeguard workers from heat-related hazards, a critical concern during the peak summer months.
The programme is part of a broader push by the Ministry to strengthen workplace safety standards, improve knowledge of occupational risks, and cultivate a culture of compliance within Oman’s private sector.
The MoL has also been instrumental in fostering collaboration among various stakeholders to enhance workplace safety. In 2024, the Ministry hosted an Occupational Safety and Health Conference, under the patronage of senior officials, to discuss critical topics related to workplace safety and well-being. The conference focused on fostering awareness, improving legislation, and embracing technological advancements to protect workers' rights and enhance their safety and health in the workplace.
The MoL also inaugurated the Work Forum 2025 in Salalah, attracting over 1,000 participants to discuss the future of Oman’s labour market and evolving skills economy. The forum emphasised the importance of safety leadership and workforce transformation aligned with Oman Vision 2040.
Oman's regulatory framework mandates that private sector establishments with more than 10 workers obtain approval for their Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) programs from the MoL. This process involves submitting an official request, which is reviewed and approved by the relevant department, ensuring that employers implement necessary safety measures and maintain a safe working environment.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 12 August 2025
- Year: 2025
Saudi Arabia’s road sector is experiencing rapid transformation as the Roads General Authority (RGA) rolls out a series of innovations designed to enhance safety, sustainability, and efficiency.
These measures are central to the Kingdom’s ambition to strengthen its position as a leading global logistics hub.
One of the most significant advancements is the introduction of roller-compacted concrete for truck lanes, a first for the Kingdom.
This robust material offers exceptional durability and resistance to deformation caused by the heavy loads of large trucks. Its use is expected to extend the lifespan of critical freight routes, reduce maintenance costs, and improve driving conditions for commercial transport.
In line with Saudi Arabia’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the principles of the circular economy, the RGA has begun incorporating recycled building demolition waste into asphalt mixes. By reprocessing materials from construction and demolition sites, the initiative reduces reliance on natural raw resources while transforming waste into valuable construction inputs. The authority has set an ambitious goal to recycle 60 per cent of this type of waste, contributing to national waste management and climate targets.
The RGA is also prioritising enhancements to public spaces and urban environments. One example is the introduction of flexible rubber asphalt made from recycled tyres, which is now being used for pedestrian paths and public parks. This material not only provides a softer, more comfortable surface for walking and running but also addresses the environmental challenge of tyre waste, reducing pollution and landfill pressures.
New improvements
Another notable innovation is the deployment of road cooling technology. Using locally manufactured materials with reflective properties, this technology is capable of reducing road surface temperatures by an average of 12-15 degrees Celsius.
The approach not only improves comfort for pedestrians but also helps combat the urban heat island effect, which can significantly raise temperatures in built-up areas.
These advancements are part of the authority’s broader strategy to improve road quality, boost safety standards, and ensure the long-term efficiency of the Kingdom’s extensive road network. With 73,000 km of interconnected roads, the largest such network in the world, Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure plays a pivotal role in enabling economic growth and supporting vital sectors such as trade, tourism, and logistics.
By integrating cutting-edge engineering solutions with environmental stewardship, the Roads General Authority is setting new benchmarks for road design and maintenance. Its forward-looking approach not only supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives but also ensures that Saudi Arabia’s roads will remain a cornerstone of regional and global connectivity for decades to come.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 11 August 2025
- Year: 2025
The UK's Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued a safety notice on 8 August, warning of the potentially fatal risks posed by gangway accidents to offshore workers.
The alert follows the identification of serious hazards where motion-compensated gangways retract unexpectedly due to power failures or control system faults.
Such incidents can lead to workers falling from height, being struck by moving components, or sustaining severe injuries, including fatalities.
HSE is urging operators in the oil and gas and renewable energy sectors to review their gangway systems without delay.
A need for better equipment
Any equipment that cannot provide sufficient advance warning before automatic retraction must be taken out of service until appropriate safety measures are in place.
The requirements set out by HSE state that dutyholders must carry out technical risk assessments for all automatic gangway functions.
Control systems must be designed so that auto-retraction can only occur once it is confirmed that personnel are in a safe position.
If gangway operators are to manually override automatic retractions, this process must be supported by a thorough risk assessment.
The regulator has stressed the importance of effective warning systems that give clear advance notice before any hazardous movement takes place.
Dutyholders should review both the design of their gangways and the testing conducted on all automatic functions.
They must ensure that the control system will only trigger auto-retraction when there is no risk to workers.
HSE’s notice reinforces that safety reviews should consider every operational state under which automatic retraction might occur.
Where overrides are possible, the associated risks must be rigorously evaluated to protect offshore personnel, HSE advised.
Howard Harte, operations manager (Offshore Regulation) at the Health and Safety Executive, said, “Despite a previous safety alert in 2024, and the publication of industry good practice, we have become aware that gangways that provide insufficient warning before auto-retraction are still being used in the offshore oil and gas and renewables industry.
“This safety notice addresses continuing incidents where gangway failures have resulted in unexpected retraction without adequate warning to operators or personnel crossing between platforms. Workers have been left unable to move to safety or brace for sudden movement when systems fail.
“A warning by definition is advanced notice that a potentially dangerous event is about to occur. The purpose of the warning is to enable persons to make themselves safe before the event occurs. Audible and/or visual alarms that are triggered at the same time the gangway retracts are not considered to provide adequate warning to enable workers to reach safety.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 8 August 2025
- Year: 2025
The Abu Dhabi Department of Energy (DoE) has introduced the emirate’s first vertical Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) tank system specifically designed for food establishments.
This development represents a significant step towards enhancing safety, operational efficiency, and compliance within the sector. The new system replaces the traditional reliance on individual LPG cylinders, which are commonly stored and handled on-site, with a more advanced and secure solution.
The vertical tank system has a storage capacity of up to 125 gallons and is fitted with an explosion-proof vaporiser.
A key feature of the initiative is that the tanks are refilled directly on-site by licensed operators. This eliminates the need for food outlets to store, transport, or manually replace heavy gas cylinders, thereby reducing the physical and operational hazards often associated with their use.
By adopting this technology, the risks of gas leaks and related incidents are substantially minimised.
The streamlined refilling process also simplifies day-to-day operations, allowing food businesses to focus on service delivery while maintaining full compliance with regulatory standards. The DoE has described this move as an important regulatory milestone in its broader efforts to raise safety benchmarks in the food services sector.
To guide the rollout and adoption of the system, the department has issued Technical Bulletin No (1/2025).
This document outlines the technical specifications, safety protocols, and regulatory conditions for installing vertical LPG tanks. It aligns with the requirements of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards and the UAE Fire and Life Safety Code, ensuring the initiative meets both local and internationally recognised safety criteria.
Dr Saif Saeed Al Qubaisi, Acting Director General for Regulatory Affairs at the DoE, emphasised that the initiative reflects the department’s dedication to safeguarding the public and ensuring that food establishments operate within a safe and well-regulated environment. He also underlined the importance of gas as a vital energy source for the food sector, noting that its safe and efficient use is essential for sustaining daily operations.
Engineer Ahmed Al Sheebani, Executive Director of the Petroleum Products Regulatory Affairs Sector at the DoE, explained that the project’s purpose extends beyond safety to sustainability. He stated that the system is designed to provide food establishments with a dependable energy solution that supports consistent and reliable service in line with international best practices. Al Sheebani also pointed out that the DoE is working closely with licensed private sector operators to approve and implement the system to the highest standards of quality and safety.
The department is encouraging all food establishments, particularly those in locations where underground gas networks or centralised LPG systems are unavailable, to adopt this modern and integrated solution. The DoE believes that its introduction will not only meet current regulatory requirements but also prepare businesses to comply with future safety and operational standards, helping to create a safer and more resilient food service industry in Abu Dhabi.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Industrial Insights
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Europe
- Date: 7 August 2025
- Year: 2025
RoSPA is inviting applications for the next Women in Safety Leadership Programme, taking place on 30 October 2025
Sponsored by L’Oréal and certified by the Institute of Leadership, this free, one-day virtual training course is designed to help women in health and safety explore their leadership potential, strengthen their influence, and lead with authenticity.
It provides a safe, collaborative space where women from diverse industries can explore their leadership potential and develop their ability to influence across organisations.
The course is delivered online via Zoom, making it accessible to participants around the world (time zones permitting) and easy to fit into busy schedules. The interactive sessions include group discussions, breakout activities, and plenty of opportunities to ask questions, share experiences, and learn from peers in a supportive environment.
Approved by the Institute of Leadership, this programme focuses not just on health and safety, but on authentic leadership – helping women lead in ways that reflect their values and strengths.
This programme is ideal for:
• Women business owners, directors and senior executives
• Women with leadership responsibilities in any sector or organisation
• Health and safety professionals seeking to progress to more senior or strategic roles
RosPA particularly welcome applications from women who are underrepresented in health and safety leadership.
Following the training, each participant will be matched with a personal mentor to support their continued leadership journey.
“With women still making up fewer than 30% of professionals in occupational safety and health, our mentoring programme is designed to help close the gap and build lasting confidence,” says Rospa. “It’s not just about skills – it’s about belief.”
For further information, see the website here
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 6 August, 2025
- Year: 2025
Cold chain logistics is among the world’s fastest-growing industries, expected to exceed US$420bn this year.
This rapid expansion is driven by increased demand for faster delivery, product availability, and gear capable of handling extreme conditions.
Ergodyne is stepping up to meet that demand with a growing range of cold storage solutions. The worksite safety innovator has just released its warmest freezer jacket yet, along with new thermal impact gloves and merino blend socks, completing a comprehensive head-to-toe PPE system for cold storage and sub-zero work environments.
“We’ve built this collection directly with the folks who do it, day in and day out,” said Ergodyne product manager, Claudia Weber. Weber credits the swift uptake by major cold chain operators to her team’s close collaboration with end users. “I think it’s resonating because they know it was not only made for them (the workers), but with them, too.”
Ergodyne’s design process is shaped by field testing, feedback loops, and on-site observations. Small but significant design details, such as exterior sizing labels on jackets, are direct results of this approach—making gear selection faster and more efficient for workers.
Keeping PPE in good condition
“Seems like not a huge deal,” said Weber. “But to the workers sifting through the gear every day to find the right size, it is.”
Yet, as demand for cold storage PPE grows, so does uncertainty around a key issue: what temperature ratings really mean.
"There's a lot of misinformation—and even more misunderstanding—about what temperature ratings truly represent," said Ergodyne president, Greg Schrab. “We’re committed to educating our users and helping them make informed decisions based on the best information available, not assumptions.”
In response, Ergodyne has released a new guide clarifying the science behind temperature ratings, how they’re tested, what they indicate, and how factors such as physical activity and exposure time must be considered alongside the ratings themselves.
“Just like any PPE, cold storage crews need the proper information about their thermal gear to make the right choice for their application,” Schrab continued. “That’s why we’ve always been as serious about education as we are about innovation.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 5 August, 2025
- Year: 2025
The Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre - Abu Dhabi (ADCMC) has activated its Coordination and Monitoring Centre in Al Ain region to bolster the emirate’s emergency preparedness and response capabilities, while strengthening coordination with strategic partners and various stakeholders.
The activation of Al Ain Centre forms a key pillar of ADCMC’s strategic growth plan to expand its geographic reach and field coordination capabilities.
As a critical supporting infrastructure to the main operations centre in Abu Dhabi, the new centre will enable faster response times and more effective, localised decision-making during emergencies.
H.E. Dr. Abdulla Hamarain Al Dhaheri, Executive Director of the Response and Recovery Sector, ADCMC, said, “The launch of the Coordination and Monitoring Centre in Al Ain region marks a key strategic milestone in reinforcing the emirate’s crisis preparedness framework. It aligns with the Abu Dhabi government’s vision of developing an integrated, advanced and effective emergency management system. Our approach is proactive, built on close collaboration with key stakeholders to ensure the highest levels of field coordination and readiness for all possible scenarios.”
H.E. noted that Al Ain Coordination Centre is a key component of a wider strategy to enhance institutional resilience and accelerate response capabilities, emphasising that effective field coordination is the cornerstone of any successful emergency management system.
“The new centre will enhance field capabilities in Al Ain and ensure round-the-clock readiness for any emergency,” H.H. Al Dhaheri added.
ADCMC continues to play a pivotal role in reinforcing the emirate’s preparedness for all forms of emergencies, crises and disasters.
It is responsible for developing and overseeing the implementation of comprehensive emergency management policies, strategies, and plans, in close collaboration with local authorities and strategic partners.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 4 August 2025
- Year: 2025
Intersec Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom’s leading platform for security, safety, and fire protection, is set to host a landmark collaboration with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) as part of its Fire Protection and Technology Summit.
Established in 1896, the NFPA is a global nonprofit committed to reducing fire-related fatalities, injuries, and economic loss.
It develops over 300 widely adopted codes and standards and plays a key role in fire safety education, training, and research.
On 30 September, the association will take centre stage with a dedicated “NFPA Day”, offering in-depth technical sessions under themes such as ‘Protecting GIGA Developments and Large-Scale Events in the Kingdom’, ‘Building Human Capital in Fire Protection’, and ‘Navigating New Fire Safety Regulations and Compliance’.
The sessions, curated by NFPA and chaired by Zahi Daher, country manager for international business development in Saudi Arabia, will convene government officials, industry leaders, and stakeholders to discuss the evolving fire protection landscape in the Kingdom.
“The NFPA Day at Intersec Saudi Arabia is more than just a series of sessions - it's a dynamic platform for exchanging knowledge, building local expertise, and fostering meaningful collaboration between industry leaders, government authorities, and safety professionals. Our goal is to elevate fire protection standards across the Kingdom, laying the foundation for safer communities today and for generations to come,” said Daher.
NFPA Day will place strong emphasis on the importance of fire codes and standards in supporting safety innovation, regulatory compliance, and cross-sector collaboration.
Attendees will gain practical insights into how NFPA’s training and certification programmes can be aligned with Saudi Arabia’s unique needs.
The day will conclude with a networking session, fostering connections and partnerships to advance fire and life safety across the Kingdom.
Key topics
Running from 29 September - 1 October at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Centre (RICEC), Intersec Saudi Arabia will also explore the broader future of emergency response.
Topics include smart firefighting in urban environments, HAZMAT response, high-rise rescues, and cross-border disaster management.
Opening day highlights include a panel on the use of artificial intelligence and IoT in fire detection and prevention, as well as a session examining fire safety strategies for mega events such as the Hajj.
The summit will also present advanced fire safety systems being developed for Saudi Arabia’s space and aerospace sectors.
On the last day, it will spotlight women transforming the fire safety sector and focus on capacity-building for the next generation of professionals.
Jim Pauley, president and CEO of NFPA, said, “As Saudi Arabia undergoes rapid transformation aligned with Vision 2030, integrating internationally recognised fire and life safety standards is more vital than ever. NFPA is pleased to support the Kingdom by providing the knowledge, resources, and global expertise needed to safeguard lives, property, and infrastructure. We are honoured to be part of Intersec Saudi Arabia, where we can engage directly with local stakeholders and help drive meaningful progress in fire safety.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 1 August 2025
- Year: 2025
Dubai Municipality has been awarded United Arab Emirates Country Winner title at the 2025 International Safety Awards, hosted by the British Safety Council.
Widely regarded as one of the highest global honours in occupational health and safety, the award recognises outstanding organisations that prioritise safe, healthy, and sustainable work environments.
Selected from hundreds of entries worldwide (including institutions across the UK, Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East) Dubai Municipality stands among just 10 organisations globally to receive the coveted Country Winner designation this year. The recognition cements its status as a regional leader in health and safety excellence.
The award reflects Dubai Municipality’s comprehensive and proactive approach to managing occupational health and safety risks. The organisation was praised for its implementation of internationally recognised management systems, progressive workplace policies, and sustained efforts to protect employee wellbeing. Judges highlighted its strategic focus on minimising risks and continuously improving safety outcomes across its diverse operations.
Training and other programmes
Key to the Municipality’s success was its integration of safety into all levels of decision-making. Its approach includes a strong emphasis on innovation, with investments in smart technologies that monitor and manage workplace hazards in real time. This includes predictive analytics for risk prevention, digital tools for inspection and reporting, and continuous employee engagement through interactive safety platforms.
In addition to reducing incidents and injuries, the Municipality has worked to foster a strong safety culture throughout its workforce. Education and training programmes, supported by leadership at all levels, have played a central role in embedding a mindset of shared responsibility. The Council also recognised the organisation’s initiatives to promote mental health and wellbeing, making it a holistic model for occupational safety management.
This latest recognition aligns with Dubai’s broader vision to set global benchmarks in urban excellence. As the city continues to invest in sustainable growth and high-performance public services, the safety and wellbeing of its workforce remains a top priority. Dubai Municipality’s achievement offers a clear example of how forward-thinking governance, strategic investment, and technology can combine to create world-class standards in health and safety.
Dr Naseem Mohammed Rafee, CEO of the Environment, Health, and Safety Agency at Dubai Municipality, said, “This achievement reflects Dubai Municipality’s unwavering commitment to fostering a sustainable preventive culture and managing risk in line with international best practices. It supports our vision of making Dubai a global benchmark for liveability, with a world-class health and food safety ecosystem. The award affirms our ongoing efforts to apply occupational safety models that reflect the highest global standards.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 31 July 2025
- Year: 2025
Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba), the world’s largest aluminium smelter on a single site, has reached a significant safety milestone by recording 38 million safe working hours without a Lost Time Injury (LTI) as of 31 July 2025.
This achievement reaffirms Alba’s status as a regional and global benchmark for industrial safety and highlights its strong safety culture and proactive risk management framework.
The company’s comprehensive health and safety initiatives are designed not only to prevent incidents but also to promote a culture of accountability and continuous improvement among employees and contractors alike.
As temperatures peak this summer, Alba is doubling down on its efforts to protect its workforce from heat-related risks. The company is on track to complete its 9th consecutive summer season without a single heat-related illness or injury. According to a statement, this achievement is a testament to its robust awareness campaigns, hydration programmes, and continuous monitoring of working conditions.
Through consistent performance and forward-looking safety strategies, Alba continues to set a high standard for occupational health and safety across the region’s heavy industries.
Ali Al Baqali, chief executive officer of Alba, said, “This tremendous achievement of 38 million safe working hours without LTI is a testament to the exceptional commitment of every Albawee at Alba. It demonstrates the strength of our 'Safety First' culture and our pursuit of zero harm.
The safety of our people is non-negotiable, and this milestone reinforces our dedication to protecting our workforce, the true champions of our safety journey.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 30 July 2025
- Year: 2025
NEBOSH has been named a finalist in three categories at the 2025 FAB Qualifications and Assessment Excellence Awards, a recognition of its growing influence on global education and skills development in occupational health and safety.
The awards, organised by the Federation of Awarding Bodies (FAB), celebrate exceptional contributions across the UK's qualifications and assessment sector. NEBOSH’s nominations span individual and organisational achievements, highlighting its impact both locally and internationally.
In the Learner of the Year – Champion of Qualifications & Assessment category, Partington Oswald Mtatabikwa has been shortlisted. A survivor of a severe mining accident, Partington holds two NEBOSH qualifications and has used his personal experience to drive change in workplace safety. Since beginning his NEBOSH journey in 2022, he has inspired tens of thousands across South Africa and beyond, using storytelling and advocacy to encourage others to pursue formal safety training and embrace a culture of responsibility.
“This gesture is priceless and has challenged me to continue learning even more. I have realised that life never limits us, but we limit ourselves,” said Mtatabikwa. “We can keep on growing as long as we still want to, but if we stop growing, we start dying. I wish I had known this secret when I was much younger. However, there is no better time to start than the present, as long as we don't procrastinate.
“Above all, my nomination and shortlisting serve as a testament that disability is not inability, and I hope my journey inspires others to continue pushing despite all odds. Don't let anyone define your limits; define them yourself.”
NEBOSH Chief Quality Officer Dee Arp is a finalist for the Special Recognition Award, which honours individuals who have had a lasting impact within their organisation and the wider education and skills sector. With over 20 years of leadership at NEBOSH, Dee has helped shape the international landscape of health and safety education. As President of the International Network of Safety and Health Practitioner Organisations (INSHPO), she continues to influence policy and champion accessible, high-quality learning opportunities across the industry.
“I am honoured to be a finalist in the Special Recognition category of the FAB Awards. My journey has only been possible because of the amazing people that have shared it, from whom I have learnt and continue to learn from, and who share my passion for lifelong learning and empowering people to be their best self,” said Arp.
NEBOSH itself has been shortlisted for the International Export of Qualifications Award, recognising its success in delivering UK qualifications globally. Today, 75% of NEBOSH learners are based outside the UK. The organisation has built a robust international network, working with Learning Partners in more than 50 countries, and forging strategic relationships with industry bodies. Tailored qualifications such as the International General Certificate have contributed to strong uptake in key markets including India, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia.
Now in its tenth year, the FAB Awards will announce winners at a ceremony in Milton Keynes on 27 November 2025.