Industrial Insights
Industrial Insights
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Technology
- Topic: Technology
- Date: 12 September, 2024
- Year: 2024
In the UAE, Dubai’s Roads and Transportation Authority (RTA) is committed to the safety of construction machinery through stringent regulations and advanced technology.
To explore these efforts, Technical Review Middle East spoke to Kaleemuddin Khan, senior sales and business development executive at Tajdeed Vehicle Testing Centre, an RTA-affiliated facility.
The centre is instrumental in inspecting a wide range of construction equipment, including wheel loaders, excavators, backhoe loaders, bulldozers, boom loaders, and cranes. According to Khan, “RTA prioritises safety through various measures designed to protect road users and enhance overall transportation and vehicle safety.”
Digitalisation for added safety
Tajdeed employs cutting-edge vehicle testing equipment to ensure precise inspections. This includes a fully equipped, state-of-the-art mobile inspection unit. Tajdeed uses the latest and most advanced testing equipment, such as roller brake testers, emission testers, and side-slip testers, among other tools. In addition to this advanced technology, Tajdeed’s well-trained inspectors conduct thorough visual inspections of the equipment.
“Inspections are tailored to customer needs, including registration, renewal, export, and transfer tests,” Khan noted. “Proper maintenance of machinery is critical for the safety of workers who depend on these vehicles. Regular inspections and timely repairs are essential to prevent accidents, breakdowns, and other hazards associated with poorly maintained equipment.”
To ensure adherence to safety procedures, the RTA has installed cameras inside mobile testing units to monitor the inspection process. A control room also oversees inspections to maintain compliance with RTA standards and international regulations.
“Inspections are conducted following strict RTA parameters and international standards, with a primary focus on machinery safety and operator well-being," Khan explained. “If the equipment meets RTA criteria, a pass report is issued. However, issues such as faulty parts, oil leaks, or worn-out/expired tires will result in a failed inspection.”
Read the full article in the latest issue of Technical Review Middle East.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Fire Safety
- Topic: Fire Safety
- Date: 11 September, 2024
- Year: 2024
Kevin Killeen, global product line manager for Flame Detection at MSA Safety, outlines how advanced diagnostic technologies help minimise false alarms in flame detectors
In industrial environments where flammable materials are handled, flame detection systems are crucial for safety. They serve as an essential layer in safety programmes, helping to prevent fires and explosions by detecting the presence of flames early on. However, false alarms can be a significant issue, disrupting operations and potentially desensitising personnel to real alerts. Different flame detection methods exhibit varying false alarm profiles depending on the application, which is why advanced diagnostic technologies, like artificial neural networks (ANNs), have been developed to enhance these systems and reduce false alarms.
Traditional flame detection systems rely on sensors such as infrared (IR) and ultraviolet (UV) detectors to identify flames. These sensors, however, can be prone to interference from sources like sunlight, arc welding, and hot surfaces, which may lead to false alarms. Environmental factors like dust, smoke, and fog can further limit the effectiveness of flame detectors, making it challenging to distinguish between genuine threats and false alarms.
Addressing the challenges
ANNs are a powerful solution to these challenges. They are computational models inspired by the structure and function of the human brain, capable of learning complex patterns and making decisions based on vast datasets. When applied to flame detection, ANNs can discern subtle differences between actual flames and potential sources of interference, significantly reducing false alarms.
ANNs are trained using extensive datasets of spectral data from both real flames and common sources of interference. Through supervised learning, the network adjusts its internal parameters to optimize its ability to accurately classify input data.
Once trained, the ANN can quickly analyse incoming sensor data and determine whether a detected anomaly corresponds to a genuine flame or a false alarm. Since 2005, MSA has been at the forefront of using artificial neural networks in flame detection technology.
Numerous industries, including oil and gas, chemical processing, and manufacturing, have adopted ANNs for flame detection with remarkable results. By integrating ANNs into their safety systems, companies have reported significant reductions in false alarms, leading to enhanced operational continuity and improved worker safety.
Additionally, the scalability of ANNs allows them to be deployed in diverse environments, from offshore platforms to industrial plants, highlighting their versatility and effectiveness.
Key advantages
The key advantages of using ANNs in flame detection include:
1. Adaptability: ANNs can handle varying environmental conditions and sources of interference due to their extensive training library, making them robust in real-world applications.
2. Accuracy: ANNs leverage sophisticated pattern recognition capabilities to differentiate between genuine flames and false alarms with high precision.
3. Efficiency: ANNs can process large volumes of data in real-time, enabling rapid decision-making and minimizing response times in critical situations.
4. Reduced maintenance: With fewer false alarms, flame detection systems that incorporate ANNs require less frequent maintenance, resulting in cost savings and improved operational efficiency
The FL5000 Multi-Spectrum Infrared (MSIR) Flame Detector is our latest generation flame detector. It builds on the foundation set by the FL4000H, with increased neural network capabilities that further reduce false alarms. The proprietary MSIR flame algorithm ensures that the detector verifies the presence of a legitimate flame before initiating an alarm, protecting both assets and budget.
Additionally, the FL5000 is the first flame detector to incorporate Bluetooth technology. With the exclusive Flame Connect App, users can easily set up, configure, and download event logs from mobile devices.
Advanced diagnostic technologies, especially artificial neural networks, offer excellent accuracy and efficiency in flame detection while minimizing false alarms. By harnessing the power of ANNs, industries can mitigate risks, protect assets, and safeguard personnel. As technology continues to evolve, the integration of next-generation ANNs is poised to set new benchmarks for excellence in industrial flame detection.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial
- Topic: Industrial
- Date: 10 September, 2024
- Year: 2024
The Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard Company (ASRY), the Bahrain-based ship and rig repair yard, has recently announced the launch of the first phase of the Bapco Refining Self-Propelled Fuel Oil Bunker Barges Project
The project, scheduled for execution in the final quarter of 2024, was announced during an official launch ceremony held at the company’s headquarters in Hidd, in the presence of senior officials from both companies, led by Dr. Ahmed Al-Abri, chief executive officer of ASRY, and Bapco Refining representatives.
This strategic project comes as part of a strategic alliance between ASRY and Bapco Refining, with a view to positioning the Kingdom of Bahrain as a key maritime hub in the region. The project consists of the delivery of two self-propelled fuel oil bunker barges to one of the biggest national industrial corporations.
Extensive experience
ASRY's extensive experience and high competency in the field of marine asset optimisation, being a leading maritime repair and fabrication facility in the region, were key factors in being awarded the project. ASRY operates in four sectors – Ship Repair & Conversion, Rig Repair & Conversion, Naval Repair & Conversion, and Fabrication & Engineering – which together cover all types of vessel repair including jack-up rigs and other offshore assets, as well as fabrication of onshore and offshore industrial components.
Dr. Abdulrahman Jawahery, chief executive officer of Bapco Refining, stated, "We acknowledge the advantages of leveraging the distinguished expertise at ASRY in executing this strategic project. This approach will allow us to meet the advanced and diverse requirements of the energy sector in alignment with international standards and specifications, ensuring compliance with the dual framework of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) MARPOL agreements."
Dr. Ahmed Al-Abri, chief executive officer of ASRY, commented, “Bapco Refining’s Fuel Barges Project is one of the largest projects secured for implementation by ASRY for one of its most important national clients in the regional energy sector. Efforts are devoted to completing this project and ensuring smooth operations, where the long-standing expertise of the company will undoubtedly contribute to the project’s success and the achievement of its desired goals.”
"Our ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality work on schedule while maintaining safety reinforces our position as the preferred global yard of call for ship, rig, and naval ship repair and maintenance, along with being a destination for engineering, industrial construction, and fabrication projects.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial
- Topic: Industrial
- Date: 9 September, 2024
- Year: 2024
MDS, a global leader in manufacturing heavy-duty rock trommels and conveyors, has announced the appointment of Abdul Latif Jameel Machinery as its inaugural distributor in the Middle East.
With immediate effect, Abdul Latif Jameel Machinery will oversee the sales, service, and support of the MDS range of materials processing equipment throughout Saudi Arabia.
Headquartered in Jeddah, Abdul Latif Jameel Machinery is a well-established supplier of heavy machinery, commercial vehicles, material handling solutions, and crushing and screening equipment.
Their broad portfolio includes the sale and maintenance of internationally recognised brands, such as Komatsu construction and mining machinery. Already representing Powerscreen and Terex MPS, this new partnership with MDS marks the third Terex brand to join their extensive product lineup.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial
- Topic: Industrial
- Date: 6 September, 2024
- Year: 2024
Ducab Metals Business (DMB), part of the Ducab Group, has announced a major expansion, doubling its annual aluminium production capacity from 55,000tpa to 110,000tpa, and increasing its bare copper output to meet growing global demand.
This move strengthens DMB’s competitive edge in the international metals sector while contributing to the UAE’s Operation 300bn strategy, which aims to boost industrial growth and enhance the nation’s role as a leader in advanced manufacturing.
Sustainability options
The expansion was unveiled at the ‘Ducab Metals Business Expansion Forum: Advancing Capacity, Driving Innovation,’ held in collaboration with Middle East Economic Digest (MEED).
The forum brought together leading industry, government, and academic figures to discuss the future of the UAE’s industrial development and explore key strategies for achieving the objectives of Operation 300bn. The event also highlighted DMB’s progress in innovation and sustainability, including its groundbreaking work in green aluminium production.
Among the prominent attendees were Ducab Group CEO Mohammed Almutawa, DMB CEO Mohamed Al Ahmedi, and key representatives from the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi - KEZAD Group, and the Abu Dhabi Investment Office.
Mohammad Almutawa, CEO of Ducab Group, said, "At Ducab, we are committed to boosting our industrial and production capacities through strategic, forward-looking investments that are perfectly aligned with Operation 300bn. This expansion enhances our ability to meet international demand, elevates the 'Made in the Emirates' brand, and boosts our global competitiveness, all while supporting sustainable business growth and strengthening industrial resilience. These efforts further establish the UAE as a leading hub for future industries and attract greater global investments."
Mohamed Al Ahmedi, CEO of DMB, said, "Doubling our aluminium production and expanding our copper capabilities reflects our dedication to strengthening the UAE's industrial sector. This move secures our leadership in metal manufacturing, drives innovation, and reinforces our status as a major global producer. By adopting advanced, sustainable technologies and pioneering new industrial solutions, we continue to lead in industrial and technological advancement."
This recent enlargement of DMB's facilities at KEZAD Group, which increased the total space by 51,015 sqm, along with the strategic acquisition of GIC Magnet—a leading global supplier of paper-insulated aluminum strips—underscores DMB’s role as a key manufacturing hub. This development enables DMB to better serve industries such as healthcare, automotive, and packaging, thereby broadening its product range and expanding its global footprint.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- ESG
- Date: 5 September, 2024
- Year: 2024
Organisations across the Middle East are becoming more exposed to supply chain vulnerabilities stemming from human behaviour.
This critical issue will be a focal point at the Security Leaders’ Summit during Intersec 2025, where industry experts will examine the complex link between human actions and supply chain security.
The 26th edition of Intersec, the global flagship event for safety, security, and fire protection, is set to run from 14-16 January 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC).
Risk assessments
Speaking ahead of the Summit, where he will highlight the impact of human fallibility on security measures, Stuart Frost, BEM, head of enterprise security and risk management within the UK Government, said, “The primary risk in any supply chain is not just the failure of security controls, but the fact that “humans are fallible and make mistakes simply because they are human.”
Kamco Invest’s GCC Projects Market Update from January 2024 highlights that the UAE’s contract awards surged to US$79.5bn in 2023, a significant increase from the US$29.7bn recorded in 2022.
Frost notes that security often takes a backseat in contract decisions, with business, financial, and commercial considerations dominating the process. He stresses the importance of conducting comprehensive risk assessments to ensure that security concerns are properly integrated alongside other business priorities.
In the Middle East, organisations face distinct challenges where supply chain risks are intensified by the region’s geopolitical and economic complexities. Many businesses overlook the vulnerabilities within their lower-tier suppliers, potentially triggering wider disruptions.
“Supply chain breaches can threaten the very survival of an organisation and, if resilience is not built into the system, the organisation might not be able to recover from such an event,” Frost added. "Post-contract assurance should be performed at least annually to ensure the controls are still effective and the risk position is managed."
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial
- Topic: Industrial
- Date: 4 September, 2024
- Year: 2024
Emirates Steel Arkan, the UAE’s largest listed company in the steel and building materials sector, has unveiled a new identity as EMSTEEL, reflecting its ambitions for accelerated transformation and enhanced global reach.
The rebranding was officially presented at a high-profile event in Abu Dhabi, attended by prominent officials, over 400 clients, partners, and employees.
This new identity marks the successful integration of Emirates Steel and Arkan Building Materials, a merger finalised in late 2021. The union has created the UAE’s foremost steel and construction materials company, with an estimated value of US$3.5bn (AED 13 billion). The merger positions EMSTEEL for significant expansion both locally and internationally.
Incorporating safety tech
Operating under the EMSTEEL banner, the company is divided into two key sectors: Emirates Steel and Emirates Cement. Emirates Cement oversees brands such as Al Ain Cement Factory, Emirates Blocks Factories, ANABEEB, and Arkan Bags. These divisions form the backbone of EMSTEEL's operations, ensuring the delivery of top-tier products to meet the growing demands of both domestic and global markets in the construction and manufacturing sectors. The group’s structure is flexible, designed to accommodate new business lines and expansions into fresh markets.
At the core of EMSTEEL’s strategy are innovation and sustainability. The group is investing in advanced technologies and clean energy initiatives, driving the development of cutting-edge solutions that focus on safety, quality, and efficiency. Producing low-carbon products remains a central objective as the company works towards offering environmentally sustainable solutions.
EMSTEEL controls 11% of Abu Dhabi’s manufacturing output and holds a 60% share of the UAE’s steel market. As a key player in supporting the UAE’s "Operation 300bn" industrial strategy, the company is also championing digital transformation across the sector. This is exemplified by its receipt of five prestigious "UAE Industry 4.0 Digital Leader" awards from the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT).
Eng. Saeed Ghumran Al Remeithi, Group Chief Executive Officer of EMSTEEL, said, “Today’s unveiling of our new brand identity marks a milestone in our evolution, as the group forges ahead to support its customers and add value to its shareholders with a unified vision. Our EMSTEEL brand carries us forward into a future full of opportunities for expansion, business growth and digital transformation. It represents our commitment to creating products, services and solutions to build a better world, in addition to driving global sustainability efforts in our sector through promoting a low-carbon supply chain in collaboration with our partners.
He added, “The company is committed to reducing carbon emissions in alignment with the UAE's Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative, where the use of clean energy in our operations is at 80%. EMSTEEL is a global leader in low-carbon steel production and the first steelmaker in the world to capture its CO2 emissions, enabling us to operate with 45% less carbon than our peers.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 3 September, 2024
- Year: 2024
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.
[READ ARTICLE]
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.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Technology
- Topic: Technology
- Date: 2 September, 2024
- Year: 2024
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.
LIDAR technology
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.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Fire Safety
- Topic: Fire Safety
- Date: 30 August, 2024
- Year: 2024
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.
A construction surge
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.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 29 August, 2024
- Year: 2024
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.
Improving sector efficiency
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.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 28 August, 2024
- Year: 2024
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.
Stakeholder consultation
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.”