Industrial Insights
Industrial Insights
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial
- Topic: Industrial
- Date: 26 July, 2024
- Year: 2024
Masdar reached an agreement with Endesa to become a partner for 2.5GW of renewable energy assets in Spain
This is subject to regulatory approvals and other conditions. The transaction would see Masdar invest US$817mn to acquire a 49.99% stake, with an enterprise value of US$1.7bn, representing one of Spain’s biggest renewable energy deals.
The portfolio Masdar plans to acquire consists of 48 operational solar plants of 2GW aggregated capacity. Endesa and Masdar aim to add 0.5GW of battery energy storage system (BESS) to the projects. The partnership reinforces Masdar’s reputation as a trusted global energy partner for governments, investors, developers, and communities.
In addition to the acquisition Share Purchase Agreement (SPA), Masdar and Endesa have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore an alliance aimed at jointly developing renewable energy projects in Spain.
The deal reflects Masdar’s ambitious growth plans in Europe, having recently announced that it has reached a definitive agreement with Greece’s GEK TERNA SA and other shareholders of TERNA ENERGY SA to initially acquire 67% of the company’s outstanding shares, subject to regulatory approvals and other conditions. With a strong portfolio of projects in Greece and Europe, TERNA ENERGY is targeting renewable energy operational capacity of 6GW by 2030.
In March this year, Masdar and Spain’s Iberdrola also reached financial close on the 476MW Baltic Eagle offshore wind project located in the Baltic Sea off the coast of Germany.
HE Dr Sultan Al Jaber, chairman of Masdar, said, “Building on Masdar’s global expertise and pioneering approach to renewable energy innovation and development, this partnership underscores our commitment to unlocking clean energy capacity in Spain, Europe, and around the world, supporting the global mandate enshrined in the COP28’s UAE Consensus to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030 enabling a just, orderly and equitable energy transition. Masdar is accelerating its ambitious growth plans as we target 100GW of renewable energy capacity by the end of the decade.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Industrial
- Topic: Industrial
- Date: 25 July, 2024
- Year: 2024
KBR has announced that its blue ammonia technology has been selected by Shell for its Blue Horizons low-carbon hydrogen and ammonia project in Duqm, Oman
The facility will utilise KBR's leading ammonia synthesis loop technology to deliver cost-competitive and low-carbon intensity ammonia. KBR will provide licensed proprietary engineering design for the 3,000 metric tons per day ammonia plant utilising hydrogen produced by Shell's Blue Hydrogen technology.
"We are excited to work with Shell on this breakthrough project in Oman and contribute towards achieving Oman's Vision 2040 targets," said Jay Ibrahim, president, KBR Sustainable Technology Solutions. "Our blue ammonia technology allows our clients to implement their energy transition projects with a cost-competitive solution at the lowest carbon intensity."
KOC contract
This news follows KBR’s earlier announcement that it has been awarded an advisory consulting contract by Kuwait Oil Company for the development of a country wide masterplan for the production of 17GW of renewables and 25GW of green hydrogen by 2050. KBR will provide advisory consulting services to develop a phased strategy for the deployment of wind and solar power, combined with power storage capability. The renewable power capability will be linked to the production of green hydrogen for internal industrial use, as well as for export purposes.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 24 July, 2024
- Year: 2024
Manaseer Ready-Mix, a subsidiary of Manaseer Group and one of the leading companies in Jordan in sectors including energy and mobility, building materials, industrial minerals and natural fertilisers, has achieved the Social Security Excellence Award for Occupational Safety and Health for 2022/2023
This prestigious award, presented annually by the Social Security Corporation is awarded for the implementation of occupational safety and health policies along with their practices, with criteria including applying the best international practices in the field of occupational health and safety, providing specialised training programmes for workers, and spreading a culture of safety in the work environment.
The winners received their awards at a special awards ceremony organised by the Social Security Corporation, under the patronage of His Excellency the Minister of Labor.
Commitment to creating a safe and positive workplace
This award reflects Manaseer Ready-Mix’s commitment to creating a safe and positive workplace, sustaining its success, and maintaining its commitment in safety and health requirements according to the best international standards. This has resulted in reinforcing the culture of workplace safety in line with Manaseer’s social and economic role. Manaseer Ready-Mix is encouraged by the award to continuously apply the latest programmes and technologies to achieve occupational safety and health.
As the largest private company in Jordan, Manseer Group provides employment opportunities for Jordanians and residents while delivering high-quality products across various industries. It contributes to creating a dynamic environment for innovation and sustainability, as well as playing a significant role in social responsibility through numerous community initiatives and environmentally friendly practices. Manaseer Industrial Complex - Chemical Factory received the Green Factory Award from Jordan Chamber of Industry for the 2022-2023 cycle. The Group has also been listed in Forbes "Top 100 Arab Family Companies" 2023 for the second consecutive year, as well as receiving the Arab Quality Award in 2023, making it the first Jordanian company to receive this certificate in recognition of its outstanding performance.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 23 July, 2024
- Year: 2024
Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba), the world’s largest single-site smelter, has launched its 2024 summer safety & health (S&H) campaign entitled ‘Safety Reflection for Family's Protection’
The campaign prioritises the well-being of both Alba's employees and contracting company workers. Designed to mitigate summer-related health risks and injuries, it offers a mix of online and in-person educational sessions running from 22-30 July.
CEO Ali Al Baqali emphasised Alba's commitment to fostering a safety culture that extends beyond the workplace and into employees' homes and stated, “At Alba, Safety isn't just a company priority, it's a family value. Our S&H campaigns are about empowering our workforce to make smart choices that keep them healthy, not just for themselves, but for their loved ones waiting for them at home.
“This year, with everyone's active participation, we're confident in reaching an eighth consecutive summer free of heat-related injuries. I encourage everyone to make Safety a top priority, not just at work, but throughout the summer.”
The 'Safety Reflection for Family's Protection' Campaign offers a blend of informative presentations. In-house experts and external speakers will cover various summer safety topics, ensuring employees and contractor workers are well-equipped with the knowledge they need to stay safe. The campaign will also feature interactive visits to shop floor areas led by the company’s top officials to showcase practical summer safety strategies that employees can implement in their daily work routines.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- News
- Topic: Events
- Date: 17 July, 2024
- Year: 2024
Saudi Arabia’s leading trade fair for safety, security, and fire protection, will return for a sixth edition from 1st - 3rd October at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center (RICEC)
Organised by 1st Arabia and licensed by Messe Frankfurt, the event is held under the patronage of the High Commission for Industrial Security and in association with the Ministry of Interior and Saudi Civil Defense.
Intersec Saudi Arabia draws thousands of security and safety professionals from around the GCC each year to procure, learn and develop their knowledge of a rapidly growing industry. A record-breaking 15,336 visitors attended the 2023 event, and 17,000 visitors are expected at the upcoming edition. The exhibition space for Intersec Saudi Arabia 2024 has increased by 34% from 2023, covering a total area of 23,000 sq m across five halls and one outdoor showcase.
Bilal Al Barmawi, CEO and founder of 1st Arabia Trade Shows & Conferences, said, “Intersec Saudi Arabia is tailored specifically to the needs of the Kingdom. The event is regarded as the largest and most important exhibition and conference for the security, safety, and fire protection industries in Saudi Arabia.”
Intersec Saudi Arabia is expected to host over 350 exhibitors from 27 countries and will feature country pavilions for China, the Czech Republic and the UK. Saudi-based exhibitors account for 29% of the participating companies, which are categorised across five product sectors – Commercial and Perimeter Security, Cybersecurity, Homeland Security and Policing, Fire and Rescue, and Safety and Health.
Two pivotal summits
The annual conference programme for Intersec Saudi Arabia will include the Future Security and Safety Summit and the Fire Protection and Technology Summit, with both of these summits reflecting the specific needs of the Saudi market.
Riham Sedik, show manager – Intersec Saudi Arabia, Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said, “We are proud to feature two pivotal summits that will unite industry pioneers to address current and emerging security threats at national and corporate levels while also bringing together leading fire and emergency service professionals to discuss the latest challenges, opportunities, and advancements in fire safety and technology."
The summits will run throughout the three-day event and have been developed to bring together the industry's best and brightest minds, offering significant value to attendees and high-quality, valuable educational opportunities to attendees.
Key themes for the Future Security and Safety Summit include ‘Moving Beyond Security – How to React to AI’s Transformative Potential’ and ‘Boosting International Security Co-operation’ Meanwhile, the Fire Protection and Technology Summit will explore ‘Robotics and Automation for Fire Suppression’ and ‘Fire Challenges due to Climate Change’ among other vital industry topics.
The Premium Club will once again return to Intersec Saudi Arabia, providing unrivalled opportunities for professionals in safety, security, and fire protection to network. The programme is designed to encourage key buyers to connect with exhibitors away from the show floor, offering a seamless purchasing process.
You can find out more about Intersec Saudi Arabia here
- Details
- Louise Waters
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 16 July, 2024
- Year: 2024
The inaugural Health, Safety & Environment Gulf of Mexico conference (HSE GOM) takes place at Hilton Greenway Plaza Houston Texas from 8-9 October 2024, providing an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the region’s offshore HSE community
The growing focus on health, safety and environment is putting pressure on the Gulf of Mexico’s oil and gas sector to update their strategies. Operators in the region grapple with key challenges such as the Covid hangover, getting workers on board, ageing assets and, notably, evolving stringent regulations kick-started by the events around the Deepwater Horizon disaster.
To combat these challenges, stakeholders are engaging in a range of best practices and deploying new technologies in order to bring their workforce together and mitigate risk for their operations moving forward.
Sharing best practices
HSE GOM will bring together leaders from the offshore community to share insights and best practices for enhancing safety standards and performance across the region. More than 20 expert speakers from companies including Apache Corporation, Baker Hughes, Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement, Center for Offshore Safety, MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, Murphy Oil Corporation, Shell and Weatherford will present on crucial topics across the four main themes of safety culture; process safety; planning and preparation; and technology and innovation.
“At HSE GOM, you’ll gain exclusive access to operator best practices and innovative technologies, exploring strategies to enhance safety performance across the region,” said Jack Heffernan, project manager. “Engage with 150 influential decision-makers during our dedicated networking sessions in our technology showcase hall, to catalyse potential partnerships and enhance your presence in the market. Don’t miss out as we hear from regulators including BSEE on standards development, explore industry-leading strategies for cultivating a robust safety culture, and discover cutting-edge advancements in PPE, ensuring the region’s workforce are optimally equipped.”
For full information, download the brochure at https://events.offsnet.com/HSEGOM2024#/Brochure
Contact Jack Heffernan at
- Details
- Louise Waters
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 11 July, 2024
- Year: 2024
Presight, a leading big data analytics company powered by Generative AI, has been awarded for its health and safety management system and environmental management system, among others
Presight has scooped nine ISO certifications, encompassing various aspects of organisational management, including corporate governance, risk management, quality, health and safety, environment, information security, privacy information, compliance management and business continuity management systems.
The achievement of these ISO certifications – which collectively enhance operational efficiency, data security, and resilience – reflects Presight’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards of corporate governance and operational excellence, the company says, adding that these certifications will serve as a cornerstone of its strategy to drive sustainable success and deliver unparalleled value to its clients and stakeholders.
Maintaining the highest standards
Hamda Eid AlMheiri, board member of Presight, said, “Attaining these nine ISO certifications underscores a dedication to maintaining the highest standards across all facets of Presight operations. This accomplishment not only enhances the company’s credibility but also reinforces its commitment to delivering exceptional value to stakeholders.”
Thomas Pramotedham, CEO of Presight, added, “Earning these ISO certifications is a testament to Presight’s relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation. Each certification represents a critical component of our robust management systems, ensuring we meet and exceed industry standards. This milestone propels us forward in our mission to leverage big data analytics for impactful, data-driven decisions.”
- Details
- Louise Waters
- ESG
- Date: 9 July, 2024
- Year: 2024
Dubai Municipality has secured seven new Certificates of Conformity (CoC) with international standards (ISO) and British standards across several key areas, reflecting its commitment to innovation, excellence, agility and institutional resilience
The Municipality received the specification ‘10845-1’ owing to its use of best practices in the management of engineering contracts specialising in construction, and the ‘ISO 19011’ for establishing an institutional system to manage internal audits on quality and administrative standards in accordance with international best practices.
Promoting effective governance
It achieved the ISO 37000 certification in recognition of its efforts in promoting effective governance, as well as developing and implementing a governance framework in line with the requirements of the new international standard, and the ISO 14001 certification for its environmental management systems (EMS). Additionally, the Municipality has obtained ISO 50001 certification for energy management, achieved by creating and implementing an institutional framework that maximises energy use while lowering consumption as well as achieving environmental sustainability and efficient resource management goals.
The Municipality secured the ISO 56002 certification for successfully implementing an innovation management system the ISO 38500 international standard for IT governance and digital transformation.
These specifications and certifications bring the Municipality’s total number of international certifications to 34.
H.E. Dawoud Al Hajri, director general of Dubai Municipality, said, “The Municipality embraces an institutional approach based on a culture of leadership, innovation, governance, sustainability and optimal investment in human and tangible resources. This distinctive approach has substantially contributed to accomplishing numerous international achievements and credits, which distinctly reflect the culture of excellence, agility standards and the pioneering institutional flexibility that we adopt within our line of action targeted at solidifying the Emirate’s position on global competitiveness indicators.”
H.E. Al Hajri added that owing to its remarkable human resources comprising of leaders, employees and specialised task forces, the Municipality has been able to continue offering exceptional municipal services and implementing strategies and projects that successfully meet global standards and benchmarks.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 9 July, 2024
- Year: 2024
Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba), the world’s largest single-site smelter, has been awarded the British Safety Council (BSC)’s International Safety Award with merit, reflecting its safety leadership and exceptional safety record
The award was presented during the BSC’s International Safety Awards Gala Dinner held in London in June. Nezar Hameed, Alba’s senior safety and health manager received the award from Michael Robinson, CEO of the British Safety Council in the presence of Zainab Hassan, Alba’s head of Medical Administration.
Alba’s chief executive officer, Ali Al Baqali, commented, “At Alba, Safety isn't just a priority, it's a shared responsibility. A strong safety culture, where teamwork and prioritising safety are fundamental, is embedded throughout our organisation.
“By empowering our employees to prioritise safety in all aspects of their work, we've built a strong foundation for a zero-accident environment. This award from the British Safety Council is a proud testament to our entire team's dedication.”
Alba has received a total of 11 awards by the British Safety Council since 2014. In November 2023, Alba was the first smelter in the GCC to achieve the 4-star audit rating, following a successful Five Star Occupational Health and Safety Audit conducted by the British Safety Council.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- HSE
- Topic: HSE
- Date: 5 July, 2024
- Year: 2024
Bahrain International Airport (BIA) has received the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) Health and Safety Award for the fourth year running, according to Bahrain Airport Company (BAC).
This award was granted during the RoSPA Health and Safety Awards Ceremony, which took place on June 6, 2024, at the Kempinski Central Avenue Dubai.
Eng. Hasan Farhan, BAC's Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Manager, attended the ceremony and got the award.
The RoSPA Awards system, the longest-running of its kind in the UK, receives entries from organisations all over the world, making it one of the most coveted accomplishment awards for health and safety. Applications are rigorously reviewed by a team of safety professionals, providing essential comments for improving health and safety standards.
BAC CEO, Mohamed Yousif Al Binfalah commented, “This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication of our HSE team. The award reflects the airport community commitment to safety and the diligent work our team members contributions to adhere to the best industry health and safety practices. At BAC, the safety of passengers and staff is a top priority, and we strive to work with our partners to maintain the highest standards at the airport.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Fire Safety
- Topic: Fire Safety
- Date: 4 July, 2024
- Year: 2024
Sohar Port and Freezone has announced the operational launch of the Sohar Emergency Response Organisation (SERO).
This strategic initiative represents a comprehensive and advanced approach to emergency response and safety at Sohar Port, with the capabilities to address a wide range of incidents within the industrial area. The organisation is operated by Unity Fire and Safety, a company that specialises in safety and emergency response.
Increasing collaboration
Through its mutual aid agreement, SERO extends its coverage to effectively handle additional scenarios, with the support of Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA) and OQ.
This strategic initiative represents a robust method for emergency response and safety at Sohar Port, ensuring readiness for various incidents within the industrial zone. Unity Fire and Safety operates SERO, and through a mutual aid agreement, it extends its response capabilities to include the support of CDAA and OQ.
This partnership is part of a Public-Private Partnership that includes collaborations with both global and local entities, such as the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, the Port of Rotterdam Authority, and the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority. This collaboration aims to ensure efficient emergency responses at the port. Key aspects of this partnership include advanced equipment and training, regulatory compliance, updated emergency regulations, and the implementation of an Emergency Response Plan aligned with international safety standards and best practices.
Captain Majid bin Saif bin Mohammed Al Barahi, Director General of Maritime Affairs, Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, said, “With the launch, we are prioritising the safety and protection of people above all. This initiative goes beyond traditional measures, significantly boosting the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency responses. It serves as a robust framework, seamlessly safeguarding both individuals and the continuity of essential operations during challenging times.”
Batti bin Mohammed Al Shibli, harbour master of Sohar Port commented, “By embracing innovative practices and cutting-edge technology, the organisation is setting new industry benchmarks for safety and establishing a gold standard for operational excellence. This initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring the highest level of safety, resilience, and efficiency within Sohar. Paving a future where emergencies are met with unparalleled preparedness and adaptability.”
The organisation has undertaken a series of emergency drills over the past few months, with the support of various partners within the system, in collaboration with the Rotterdam-Rijnmond Safety District team from the Port of Rotterdam, as well as a team from the Civil Defense and Ambulance Authority. Furthermore, an audit was conducted to assess the system`s readiness in partnership with the technical partner, Kappetijn, ensuring the highest standards of efficiency and readiness.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Industrial
- Topic: Industrial
- Date: 3 July, 2024
- Year: 2024
The 2024 edition of The Future of Maritime Safety Report from Inmarsat Maritime calls for the maritime industry to embrace data sharing and collaborative problem-solving as the industry navigates significant changes, such as the transition to greener propulsion technologies
The report recommends that the shipping industry establishes a list of standard data points to monitor and report, including casualties and incidents, injuries or deaths at sea, and near misses. It also endorses trend analysis to support the development of safety measures, with a particular emphasis on developing risk treatments for well-known and recurring issues.
The report reveals that Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) distress calls decreased by 7.6% in 2023 over the previous year. Despite this decline, the service was still triggered on 788 occasions, underlining the ongoing challenges in maritime safety and the need for improvements. It highlights the emergence of potential new safety risks associated with future fuels, and escalating geopolitical tensions.
Identifying trends
Peter Broadhurst, senior vice president, Safety and Regulatory, Inmarsat Maritime, said, “By harnessing the power of anonymised safety data, we can identify trends, develop specific mitigation measures, and enhance the overall safety of our ships and crews."
He noted that modern technology offers unprecedented opportunities to improve safety through better data analysis and sharing.
“We collect vast amounts of safety data, yet the current siloed-working model hinders our ability to fully leverage the actionable insights available to us. By pooling data, we can create a more holistic and objective view of maritime safety to inform performance improvements and ultimately reduce the occurrence of preventable safety incidents to save lives at sea.”