Industrial Insights
Industrial Insights
- 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.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 29 July 2025
- Year: 2025
The global eye protection equipment market is projected to grow from an estimated US$1.57bn in 2024 to US$2.66bn by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 6.1% between 2025 and 2033.
These predictions, made by Grand View Research, show that the growth is largely fuelled by increasing awareness of workplace safety and the enforcement of stricter occupational health regulations across sectors.
A surge in demand from construction, manufacturing, and oil & gas industries is significantly contributing to market expansion. The growing need to prevent eye injuries in hazardous environments has led to the widespread use of safety glasses and goggles. Technological improvements in design and comfort are also encouraging wider adoption.
Emerging markets are playing a vital role in shaping the future of this industry. Industrialisation and stronger safety compliance in developing countries are creating new growth avenues. Additionally, rising investments in healthcare and pharmaceuticals are driving demand for specialised protective eyewear. The trend towards product customisation and the integration of smart features is further expanding the market's potential, supported by greater accessibility through e-commerce platforms.
However, high costs associated with advanced protective eyewear may limit uptake, especially among small and medium enterprises. In some regions, a lack of awareness or weak enforcement of safety standards can hinder adoption. Other challenges include resistance to wearing protective gear and the proliferation of low-quality counterfeit products.
Product segmentation
Safety glasses held the largest market share at 64.1% in 2024, thanks to their affordability, comfort, and compliance with safety standards. Commonly used in sectors such as construction, transportation, and manufacturing, they protect against impact, dust, and debris. Prescription and anti-fog variants are increasingly popular due to their practicality.
Goggles, meanwhile, are expected to register the fastest growth during the forecast period. Their sealed design offers superior protection in high-risk environments, including laboratories, healthcare facilities, and chemical handling sites. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated their adoption in medical and research applications, and improvements in comfort and ventilation are helping drive continued usage.
UAE leads the way
The manufacturing sector led global demand in 2024, accounting for a 22% revenue share. This is attributed to the high incidence of eye injuries in metalworking, welding, and manual assembly processes. Safety glasses and goggles remain essential for workers exposed to sparks, flying particles, and chemicals.
In the Middle East and Africa, the eye protection market is expanding steadily, driven by large-scale oil & gas projects, industrialisation, and ongoing construction activity. Governments are investing in infrastructure development and introducing new safety regulations, especially in countries like the UAE and South Africa.
In the UAE, demand for protective eyewear is growing as the country pushes forward with major construction and energy projects. Strong occupational health and safety mandates are enforcing compliance across sectors. The presence of international PPE brands and regional distributors is also helping improve product availability and market penetration.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 28 July 2025
- Year: 2025
In a groundbreaking initiative, the International Labour Organization (ILO) brought together youth voices to champion occupational safety and health (OSH) at EXPO 2025 in Osaka, Kansai, Japan.
The inaugural "Youth Congress" pitch contest, held on 17 July 2025, featured eight student teams from across the globe presenting innovative ideas to improve workplace safety. Among the special guests were Japanese celebrities Yoko Oginome and Aki Mukai, who joined to support the cause.
Mahidol University of Thailand took home the top prize for its app designed to safeguard the rights and safety of delivery drivers. Brigham Young University (USA) and the University of Occupational and Environmental Health Japan were also recognised for their creative contributions to OSH.
The winning concepts are set to be implemented by companies, underscoring the real-world impact of youth-driven ideas. The pitch contest concluded a three-year journey involving more than 200 students from 25 institutions across eight countries. Beginning in 2024, participants attended seminars and mentoring sessions on workplace safety, culminating in the selection of eight finalists whose Calls to Action were presented in Osaka.
The Youth Congress was a key feature of the EXPO 2025 Days on Safety, Health & Well-being for All, hosted under the Global Initiative for Safety, Health and Well-being (GISHW). Inspired by the ILO’s 2022 resolution recognising a safe and healthy working environment as a Fundamental Principle and Right at Work, the event called on young people, who often face heightened OSH risks, to shape safer, more inclusive workplaces in the digital age.
Mahidol University team members Nahataichanok Pathomrojsakul and Sunita Songjaroen expressed the motivation behind their proposal stating, "We chose this theme because delivery drivers face high risks to accidents and health problems under the overwhelming pressure from customer reviews. They often lack insurance and protective measures."
"The creativity of proposals and level of commitment by all the young people taking part has been outstanding," said Yuka Ujita, ILO senior specialist for occupational safety and health. "Their ideas bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to today’s workplace challenges, especially in the context of digital transformation, climate change and the demographic transition. These young voices have to much to offer and must be heard."
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 25 July 2025
- Year: 2025
Honeywell has acquired the Li-ion Tamer business from Nexceris, strengthening its fire and life safety portfolio with a proven off-gas detection technology that identifies early signs of thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries.
The acquisition, built on a five-year partnership with Nexceris, enhances Honeywell’s Building Automation segment and is expected to be immediately accretive.
As global demand for lithium-ion batteries surges, projected to exceed US$400bn by 2030, safety solutions like Li-ion Tamer are increasingly vital.
The technology detects off-gassing up to 30 minutes before thermal runaway, giving operators time to prevent fires and limit system damage. It is already trusted by major battery OEMs worldwide.
The acquisition brings more than 30 global patents into Honeywell’s ecosystem and will integrate with the company’s existing safety offerings, including VESDA early smoke detection and Connected Life Safety Services on the Honeywell Forge IoT platform.
This move complements Honeywell’s broader strategy of focused growth, portfolio simplification, and recent acquisitions totalling US$13.5bn.
"As lithium-ion battery use grows rapidly across data centers, EV infrastructure, and grid-scale energy storage, the risk of fire is increasing in parallel," said Billal Hammoud, president and CEO of Honeywell's Building Automation segment.
"Li-ion Tamer's early warning technology has been revolutionary for our customers and partners over the last five years. Building on our legacy partnership, the acquisition of this product suite will position Honeywell as a leader in early gas detection and battery fire prevention. We expect this tuck-in acquisition to further bolster growth of our fire detection business."
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 24 July 2025
- Year: 2025
EHC Investment, through its safety-focused subsidiary Emirates International Firefighting (EIFF), has acquired 100% of Tamouh Fire and Safety (Tamouh), a leading fire protection solutions provider based in Abu Dhabi.
The acquisition reinforces EHC’s commitment to enhancing the UAE’s safety infrastructure and expanding its footprint in the fire and life-safety sector. It also supports the company’s long-term vision to integrate essential services under one umbrella, combining gas distribution, smart technologies, and fire protection systems.
Tamouh brings a robust track record in designing, installing and maintaining fire protection systems, along with emergency response services. Its adherence to international safety standards and use of advanced technologies have earned it the trust of residential, commercial and government clients across Abu Dhabi.
The deal complements EHC’s existing services, which already cater to more than 100,000 clients, particularly in the gas distribution space. With Tamouh now part of its portfolio, EHC aims to offer fully integrated safety and infrastructure solutions for both residential and industrial customers.
This move aligns with EHC’s broader strategy to invest in critical service providers that strengthen national resilience, support economic diversification, and contribute to the UAE’s long-term development goals. The acquisition will also enable both entities to scale their offerings across the region, while positioning the UAE as a leader in fire safety infrastructure.
Ali Al Gebely, managing director of EHC, commented, “Our acquisition of Tamouh demonstrates EHC’s unwavering commitment to the UAE’s development agenda. We aim to support the nation’s rapid growth by elevating industry benchmarks, modernizing safety infrastructure, and delivering dependable fire protection services tailored to community needs.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 23 July 2025
- Year: 2025
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.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 21 July 2025
- Year: 2025
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.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial Insights
- Date: 18 July 2025
- Year: 2025
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.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Industrial Insights
- Topic: Industrial
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 16 July 2025
- Year: 2025
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.