Larry Wilson, author and CEO, higlights the importance of 'self triggering' in reducing the risk of serious injuries
As we return to our ongoing series on Paradigm Shifts in safety, we invite you to read the sixth article, which delves into the "State-to-Error Risk Pattern" and the crucial concept of self-triggering. This paradigm shift is foundational for understanding how our mental and physical states can lead to critical errors, which, if not recognised in time, can result in severe injuries.
The "State-to-Error Risk Pattern" (see above image) identifies how certain states—such as rushing, frustration, fatigue, and complacency—dramatically increase the likelihood of making mistakes. This article emphasises the importance of self-triggering, a method that encourages individuals to recognize these hazardous states in real-time and take immediate corrective actions. By mastering self-triggering, workers can significantly reduce the risk of serious injuries.
Last month, we promoted an important set of events focused on preventing serious injuries. These in-depth sessions, hosted by SafeStart and Author, Larry Wilson, provide an unparalleled opportunity to engage with leading safety experts and dive deeper into strategies for mitigating risks in the workplace. These events are also designed to complement the lessons learned from our Paradigm Shifts series.
Now that we’re back on track, we encourage you not only register, but also to explore this critical sixth article, to reinforce your understanding and application of these life-saving concepts. Stay proactive, stay safe, and keep learning.
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Larry Wilson is a pioneer in the area of Human Factors in safety. He has been a safety consultant for over 25 years and has worked on-site with hundreds of companies worldwide. He is the author of SafeStart, an advanced safety and performance awareness program, successfully implemented in more than 3,500 companies, in over 60 countries, with more than four million people trained. He co-authored the book “Inside Out: Rethinking Traditional Safety Management Paradigms” and authored the book “Defenseless Moments: a Different Perspective on Serious Injuries.” Larry is the moderator of the SafeConnection expert panels and an active keynote speaker at health and safety conferences around the globe.
Zenith Technologies, a UAE-based provider of intelligent security and AI-driven analytics, is partnering with the police in the UAE to create a safer environment.
Zenith Technologies has partnered with prominent regional authorities, including Dubai Police, Ajman Police, and various security agencies across the Middle East, to implement cutting-edge technology that greatly boosts law enforcement capabilities. These collaborations have been vital in elevating security measures throughout the region.
The company's AI EagleEye Intelligent Patrol system integrates six AI-powered cameras into a patrol lightbar to deliver 360-degree situational awareness. This advanced platform, incorporating technologies like Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) and AI-driven LIDAR, has transformed intelligent patrol operations in the region. The AI EagleEye also includes an AI drone embedded within the lightbar, which streams real-time intelligence to police headquarters, enhancing the ability to detect major crimes, traffic offenders, and minor violations with unmatched accuracy.
In 2008, Zenith Technologies introduced the world’s first mobile Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) system, marking a significant milestone in security technology.
As a key player in the Middle East’s security landscape, Zenith has been responsible for designing and developing numerous surveillance cameras that contribute to public safety across the UAE, including the Downtown Dubai area. This approach highlights Zenith’s ongoing dedication to enhancing security and supporting the UAE’s goal of being recognised as one of the safest countries in the world.
“Zenith Technologies is committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in security technology,” said Russell Hammad, founder and CEO of Zenith Technologies.
“Our partnership with Dubai Police and other regional security agencies has allowed us to continuously innovate and deploy advanced solutions that not only enhance public safety but also set a global standard for intelligent policing. We take immense pride in our ability to anticipate the needs of law enforcement agencies and deliver technologies that not only address current challenges but also prepare them for future threats. Our mission is to ensure that the UAE remains a beacon of safety and security, and we are dedicated to providing the tools and technologies necessary to achieve that goal.”
The sixth edition of Intersec Saudi Arabia, scheduled to take place from 1-3 October at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center (RICEC), will underscore the importance of fire safety in the built environment.
This event, recognised as the country’s premier trade fair for security, safety, and fire protection, will feature a significant discussion led by Neil Odin, chief fire officer of the UK National Fire Chiefs Council, who is a prominent figure in fire safety.
Odin, with over three decades of experience in the UK fire service, will share his unique perspectives on the challenges faced by the Middle East during the panel discussion titled "Crisis to Recovery: Strategies for Effective Fire Post-Incident Management," set to take place on the opening day of the Fire Protection & Technology Summit.
According to Mordor Intelligence, Saudi Arabia currently hosts over 5,200 ongoing construction projects, collectively valued at more than US$819bn. These projects, spanning residential, commercial, industrial, and infrastructure sectors, highlight the pressing need for effective fire-safe design strategies.
"A response strategy cannot stand alone; it must be intricately linked with fire-safe building designs and comprehensive prevention strategies. Understanding the root causes of fire disasters and sharing this knowledge is key to innovating effective solutions," said Odin.
“The Middle East, particularly Saudi Arabia, holds the potential to lead in global fire management through its focus on designing out risks in new developments,” he added.
The session will delve into the critical phases following a fire, showcasing best practices and innovative approaches to post-incident recovery, with a focus on restoring normality for affected communities, buildings, and emergency responders. Odin will be joined by Jamal Al Ghamdi, corporate process safety director at Sadara Chemical Company, on the panel.
Additional sessions on the first day of the Summit will cover topics such as promoting fire safety awareness and preparedness, fire safety hazards associated with electric vehicles, and lessons learned from past disasters.
The second day of the Summit will feature a full agenda addressing various topics, including the integration of IoT and AI in fire safety systems, the maturity of robotics in firefighting, safeguarding fire safety infrastructure against emerging threats, and fire challenges exacerbated by climate change. These sessions will be led by experts from diverse fields critical to fire safety.
Riham Sedik, show manager—Intersec Saudi Arabia, Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said, “Intersec Saudi Arabia has an integral role to play in providing a platform for some of the greatest minds and most experienced individuals to come together from around the world to discuss critical challenges, opportunities, standards & policies, and technology relating to fire safety.
“Our packed agenda ensures Intersec Saudi Arabia remains a key date for all concerned in this field.”
Alongside the Fire Protection and Technology Summit, the event will also host the Future Security and Safety Summit, focusing on the convergence of security thought leadership, innovation, and global expertise. Both summits are part of Intersec Saudi Arabia’s high-level content and conference programme, all of which are CPD-certified.
This year's exhibition will span five product categories: Commercial & Perimeter Security, Cybersecurity, Homeland Security & Policing, Fire and Rescue, and Safety and Health. With unprecedented demand from exhibitors, the show has sold out two months before its opening day, leading to a 34% increase in exhibition space from the previous year, now covering a total of 23,000 sqm across five halls and a dedicated outdoor area.
Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO and founder of 1st Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences said, “I’m delighted to see such a high calibre of experts who will be able to share insights from their many years of experience. This secures our position as a must-attend exhibition.”
The Department of Energy – Abu Dhabi (DoE) has unveiled its regulatory roadmap for the petroleum products sector, focusing on gas systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
This new regulatory initiative was introduced to 200 key government and private sector representatives during the DoE’s inaugural Gas Safety and Compliance workshop. In preparation for these changes, the DoE has been working closely with other Abu Dhabi partners to issue key compliance documents, such as the gas system certificate of completion, gas annual operation and maintenance contract, no objection certificate, and LPG filling and withdrawal permits. This year alone, the DoE has issued more than 4,000 LPG filling permits.
The announcement comes ahead of the DoE’s release of ‘Executive Regulations for Gas Systems’ and a unified gas code for the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. These regulations will bring about significant changes in safety standards, protocols, and controls for all gas-related activities, including outlining violations and penalties for non-compliance. Additionally, the regulations will establish a mandatory DoE register for certified gas companies, engineers, operators, and inspectors.
Over the past year, the DoE has been actively conducting safety awareness campaigns and collaborating with various establishments through its LPG Systems Safety Enhancement Programme. In June this year, the DoE launched its ‘Petroleum and Gas Systems Summer Readiness Campaign’ to help establishments meet safety standards, comply with regulations, and navigate the upcoming regulatory changes. Throughout the summer, DoE teams have engaged with gas systems operators, supervisors, facilities managers, property owners, and workers across various locations in the emirate, including Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain, Sila, Mussafah, and Al Dhafra. The visits covered a range of establishments, from restaurants, bakeries, and cloud kitchens to hotels, hospitals, special needs institutions, universities, workers' villages, and industrial plants.
These reforms are part of a broader regulatory overhaul aimed at enhancing the safety and integrity of gas systems in Abu Dhabi. The DoE’s oversight will ensure the highest safety standards are maintained, best practices are followed, and compliance is strictly enforced to protect public safety. The reforms are designed to safeguard communities in Abu Dhabi, address unsafe actions and behaviours, improve sector efficiency, and support socioeconomic growth.
Speaking at the workshop, Dr Saif Saeed Al Qubaisi, H.E. Acting Director General for Regulation at DoE, emphasised the shared responsibility of both government and private sectors in ensuring a safe, secure, and sustainable energy future for the emirate. “Safety is more than just a regulatory requirement; it is a shared responsibility that must be prioritised throughout the gas value chain,” he said. “Gas is familiar in everyone’s life in Abu Dhabi and it is imperative that it is used safely and responsibly by everyone in residential, commercial, and industrial sectors – from operators and contractors to food establishments and homeowners.”
Ahmed Alsheebani, Acting Petroleum Products Sector Executive Director at DoE, who led over 20 site visits reaching more than 120,000 stakeholders during the summer, expressed optimism about the sector’s progress. He urged stakeholders to commit to safety standards, invest in continuous worker training and development, and adhere to regulatory requirements. “Complying with safety protocols protects lives and the community. It also brings significant social and economic benefits, such as enhanced operational efficiency, improved business reputation, more reliable gas systems, cost savings and safer communities,” he said.
Key achievements of the DoE’s recent efforts include the inspection of more than 11,000 buildings and food establishments, with around 1,700 requiring safety upgrades—700 of which have been completed; the safe isolation of approximately 160 abandoned buildings; and the installation of over 5,000 gas detectors. The DoE called on stakeholders to collaborate in building safer communities throughout the emirate.
OPITO, the global safety and skills organisation for the energy industry, has launched a new standard to ensure the competency of helicopter administrators
The initiative will improve safety for global offshore workers requiring helicopter transfers to offshore platforms.
The new Helicopter Administrator Workplace Competence Assessment standard complies with the best practice and requirements for helicopter administrators as detailed in Civil Aviation Authority’s Civil Aviation Publication CAP 437: Standards for offshore helicopter landing areas (CAP 437). It assesses the candidates’ knowledge and skills in providing administrative support required to safely operate the helideck and manage helicopter movements within their role in the workplace. The Assessment will be undertaken in the candidates’ workplace and consists of five units.
The standard was developed in conjunction with Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) and in consultation with industry stakeholders, including Spirit Energy, Harbour Energy, HCA, bp, Repsol Resources UK, TAQA and TotalEnergies.
Lucie Booth, product development manager at OPITO, said, “OPITO is committed to creating workforce development solutions to build a safe and skilled energy workforce. The launch of the Helicopter Administrator Workplace Competence Assessment standard will assess helicopter administrators in their role within the workplace, to ensure they are contributing meaningfully to safe operational activity in often challenging offshore environments.”
Graham Skinner, Health and Safety manager at OEUK, said, “The UK’s offshore energy industry has used helicopters for more than 50 years – developing some of the highest safety standards in the world. The industry drives forward a programme of continuous improvement that is focused on reducing risk, and this is another step forward. We look forward to working with OPITO and our members to ensure we support the roll-out of this new standard.”
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dubai, UAE – August 27, 2024 – Khansaheb Civil Engineering (KCE), in collaboration with Autodesk, is set to host a webinar that will delve into the transformative effects of adopting a Common Data Environment (CDE) within the construction industry. The webinar will showcase how KCE has revolutionised its construction operations by leveraging digital solutions, significantly improving project efficiency, quality, and client satisfaction.
The webinar, titled “KCE: Revolutionising Construction Operations through Digital Delivery”, is scheduled for 18 September 2024. Participants will gain insights into how KCE utilised Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) as a comprehensive CDE solution across all project phases—from preconstruction to construction. This platform enabled KCE to centralise project data, streamline workflows, and ensure high accuracy in information exchange, ultimately delivering faster and more effective construction outcomes.
During this session, you will learn how KCE:
* Utilised Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) as a comprehensive solution for CDE needs across all project phases, from preconstruction through to construction, centralising project data in one place, including BIM Coordination, collaboration, and issue management.
* Streamlined daily tasks such as drawings, material submittals, site inspections, and snag lists, revolutionising workflow.
* Exchanged vast amounts of information with multiple parties, ensuring high accuracy and speed, delivering the right information at the right time, resulting in faster construction processes, improved quality, greater client satisfaction, and enhanced project outcomes.
* Managed to have one-click access to drawings, models, and Microsoft Office files, and handled file version control, comparison, and change management, all within a single platform.
This webinar is an essential event for professionals in the construction industry who are looking to enhance their operations through digital solutions. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear directly from experts at KCE and Autodesk about the practical applications and benefits of using a Common Data Environment.
Registration: The webinar is free to attend, but spaces are limited. To secure your spot, please register at https://alaincharlestraining.com/webinar2/kce-autodesk-webinar
For more information, please contact:
Imran Uddin
Project Manager - Events
Technical Review Middle East
Alain Charles Publishing
+44 (0) 20 78347676
About Khansaheb Civil Engineering:
Khansaheb Civil Engineering is a leading construction company in the UAE, committed to delivering high-quality construction services through innovation and excellence. With a focus on sustainability and client satisfaction, KCE continues to be at the forefront of the construction industry.
About Autodesk UAE:
Autodesk is a global leader in design and make technology, providing innovative solutions for industries including architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, and media and entertainment. Autodesk supports the region's construction industry with advanced digital tools and platforms.
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Transformative energy solutions provider AIQ has announced the successful deployment of its SMARTi Intelligent Operational Safety Monitoring solution on board 86 vessels of ADNOC Logistics and Services
SMARTi leverages artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to analyse video streams in real-time, performing more than 1 billion predictions a day and enabling rapid detection and classification of safety behavior, incidents, and hazardous situations. The solution can be seamlessly integrated into existing CCTV platforms to improve safety on vessels.
Dr. Christopher Cooper, CEO of AIQ, said, "The deployment of our highly effective SMARTi solution to ADNOC L&S vessels is another example of how AIQ is delivering leading-edge, homegrown AI technology to the heart of the Energy sector. The solution has an ever-expanding profile of uses, and we look forward to extending this initial deployment to an even greater number of vessels within the ADNOC L&S fleet and beyond."
ADNOC L&S will utilise the UAE-developed SMARTi solution to further improve safety on its vessels through automated monitoring, detection and reporting of safety protocol violations and incidents.
Captain Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO of ADNOC L&S said, “The deployment of AIQ’s SMARTi technology on our ships demonstrates our commitment to 100% HSE, as we continue to invest in innovation to optimize our operations and drive further value for our business and customers. ADNOC L&S is committed to deploying cutting-edge AI-based technologies across our entire business ensuring our vessels are a safe environment for our people.”
SMARTi (previously known as Smart Vessel) is capable of processing a vast number of images daily with greater than 90% accuracy. The solution is able to detect the absence of personal protective equipment (including helmet, uniform, and life vest), entrance and presence within a restricted area, slip and fall, man overboard and other defined scenarios.
The 6th edition of Intersec Saudi Arabia will take place from 1-3 October 2024 at the Riyadh International Convention Centre, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and Saudi Civil Defence.
Over its previous five editions, the event has established itself as the Kingdom’s premier exhibition and conference for the security, safety, and fire protection industries.
Focused specifically on the Saudi market, Intersec Saudi Arabia addresses the needs of local government agencies and companies, while also offering significant growth opportunities. As innovation in the sector continues to tackle new threats and risks, the event serves as a key platform for professionals in fire, security, emergency response, safety, and cybersecurity.
It facilitates direct connections with international suppliers, service providers, distributors, investors, and leading brands, providing a space to discuss best practices, explore the latest technologies, and conduct business.
Beyond the exhibition, the event features conferences, workshops, and a technology section that highlights how innovation is shaping the security and protection sectors. The conference includes two main summits: the Future Security & Safety Summit, which brings together leaders to discuss strategies for addressing current and emerging security threats, and the Fire Protection & Technology Summit, which focuses on the latest challenges, opportunities, and advancements in fire safety and technology.
In addition to the technology displays, the event will host numerous live demonstrations. These sessions are designed to provide attendees with hands-on experience and practical insights into the application of new technologies and best practices.
Whether it's learning about the latest fire suppression systems or exploring new security protocols, participants will have the opportunity to deepen their expertise and apply new knowledge to their respective fields. Moreover, the event will feature specialised forums and panel discussions where experts will debate the most pressing issues facing the industry today.
Topics are likely to include the integration of artificial intelligence in security systems, and the future of fire protection technologies. With the growing importance of security and safety in the region, the event is expected to attract significant attention from both local and international media, further amplifying its impact.
Alexander Castellanos, then head of Fire and Life Safety at WSP, explained how Building Information Modeling (BIM) could help increase fire safety measures at Intersec 2024, which was held from 16-17 January in Dubai.
Castellanos emphasised the importance of integrating BIM into fire safety design, highlighting the benefits of improved cooperation and enhanced collaboration. He discussed the benefits of using BIM in fire safety consulting, including a more accurate and efficient analysis of a building's fire safety features, and the importance of collaboration and coordination among stakeholders.
He also stressed that BIM can help create a comprehensive understanding of a building's fire safety features, leading to better fire safety outcomes.
“What happens now is that buildings are so complex, that in order to coordinate either internally with your design teams or with a client, but more importantly with authorities, there will be a point where 2D plans are not sufficient. And this is where BIM comes in,” he said.
BIM is important for multiple reasons, he said. “One reason is that BIM improves cooperation, for understanding complex projects, and bringing them together. It is also about the design lifecycle of a project: from design to construction to handing over a bid model, which will be important to the facilities management team. Clash detection is critical as well,” he said.
Read the full article here.
ICC caters to creating safer communities by implementing and enforcing codes and standards
The record-breaking April showers which caught UAE unawares call for risk preparedness with sustainability and capacity-building approaches. The International Building Codes (I-Codes) set forth minimum safety requirements for construction, covering structural integrity, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical design, and fire safety.
Speaking of fire safety during an ICC-hosted discussion, Lori Moore-Merrill, administrator, U.S. Fire Administration, said, “Today, fire is faster than ever before. Residential structures built with lightweight materials, furnished with synthetics, and often containing many devices powered by lithium-ion batteries provide the environment for a deadly situation should a fire occur.
"All nationally recognised modern building and fire codes require the use of life-saving technology, like smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, and automatic fire sprinkler systems. We can create safer communities by implementing and enforcing codes and standards, especially in underserved and vulnerable populations. Affordable and fire-safe housing should not be mutually exclusive.”
ICC-ES, the product certification arm of ICC, is advancing the development of acceptance criteria for eco-friendly cement, advancing sustainability efforts in construction.
Read the full article here.
With a growing HSE sector in the Middle East, there is a need to increase technological awareness, along with upskilling the workforce.
Thanks to automation and artificial intelligence becoming a mainstay in the region’s industries, the HSE sector is finding that it needs to evolve and quickly adapt to these new technologies.
Organised by Messe Frankfurt, the event is hosted every year in both Dubai and Riyadh in the Middle East. In Dubai, the programme consisted of trends in sustainable security and combating environmental crimes. Meanwhile, the Cyber Security Conference, hosted by the UAE Cybersecurity Council, opened with a keynote speech on elevating national security through cybersecurity intelligence. The Safety & Health Conference began with an update on the UAE Standard for Occupational Health and Safety Governance and Leadership. At the same time, the Fire & Rescue Conference hosted panel discussions on revolutionising fire prevention with data analytics & technology and advancing safety in energy storage.
In its upcoming edition in 2025, Intersec aims to host The Intersec Police Summit. This summit will feature biometric and identity solution providers such as Innovatrics, technology-based security solutions providers Sensotec, counterfeit and fraud protection provider Euro Holography, and control room and decision centre experts Gesab, alongside many other industry leaders. The Intersec Police Summit will also benefit from partnerships with the Critical Communication Agency (TCCA), the International Professional Security Association (IPSA), and ASIS.
Read the full article here.
The 26th Water, Energy, Technology and Environment Exhibition (WETEX) will feature a hub specialised for the latest health and safety technologies and practices.
The aim is to enhance awareness among institutions and individuals of all ages regarding key international health and safety standards in both home and work environments. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is organising WETEX from 1-3 October 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, under the guidance of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
The hub will feature four main sections: interactive workshops, seminars and panel discussions, a children's safety section, and a section dedicated to competitions, puzzles, games, and raffles to test knowledge, encourage innovation, and promote the effective implementation of safety procedures.
“WETEX is the largest exhibition of its kind in the region and the most prominent international exhibition specialising in water, energy, sustainability, green technologies, renewable and clean energy, green buildings, electric vehicles, smart grid, and other vital sectors. As such WETEX is committed to expanding its areas of focus and covering all main sectors that ensure a healthier and brighter future for all. Our focus on health and safety this year is in line with our efforts to make the UAE a global leader in the field of quality of life, and to advance well-being, health and quality of life. This supports the Dubai Social Agenda 33, the National Strategy for Wellbeing 2031, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, including Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, founder and chairman of WETEX.
Renowned local and international experts in health and safety will review guidelines and procedures for occupational safety, physical and mental health, as well as the latest trends and technologies in the field. They will emphasise precautionary measures to assess and prevent potential accidents and risks, improve preparedness for emergencies, manage stress and fatigue, and contain any resulting damage.
The aim is to strengthen resilience in addressing the impacts of climate change on occupational health and safety in schools, homes, and workplaces.
Additionally, the health and safety hub will highlight success stories, strategies, and innovative initiatives that demonstrate companies' commitment to fostering a culture of health and safety. This will help ensure a healthy, safe, and supportive work environment while enhancing their reputation as socially responsible institutions dedicated to achieving a sustainable future.