Regional coverage

Middle East

Details: Louise Waters; Middle East

Topic: HSE
Region: Middle East
Date: 1 July 2025
Year: 2025

Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba), the world’s largest aluminium smelter on one site, recorded 37 million safe working hours without a Lost Time Injury (LTI) on 27 June 2025

This significant addition to Alba's distinguished safety track record reflects its commitment to fostering a safe, healthy and resilient work environment for its employees and contractors’ workers. It reaffirms Alba’s strategic vision and core values, particularly prioritising its workers’ safety into every layer of its operations. Alba believes that its people are its most valuable assets, and investing in their safety is an investment in the company’s future success. Its foundational ‘Safety First’ culture is strengthened by dedicated safety campaigns, comprehensive in-house training programmes, weekly Safety Talks and active shop-floor engagement by Alba’s executives, all of which play a crucial role in promoting a safer workplace for all.

The company’s safety performance has been recognised this year with the award of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA’s) President’s award for the third consecutive year, and six major awards from the USA’s National Safety Council (NSC).

Middle East

Details: Sania Aziz; Middle East

Date: 30 June, 2025
Year: 2025

SOHAR Port and Freezone has been awarded the prestigious RoSPA Gold Sector Award for Health and Safety for the second consecutive year, recognising its ongoing commitment to the highest safety standards across its operations.

The award, presented by the UK-based Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), is one of the most respected international accolades in the field of health and safety.

Now in its 68th year, the RoSPA Awards programme receives nearly 2,000 entries annually from more than 50 countries, influencing safety outcomes for over seven million workers worldwide.

This latest recognition reinforces SOHAR’s strategic focus on fostering a world-class operational environment driven by a deeply embedded safety culture.

By prioritising the wellbeing of its workforce and stakeholders, the port continues to strengthen its reputation as a leading industrial and logistics hub in the region.

The award also highlights SOHAR’s dedication to sustainability and efficiency, reflecting its long-term vision of building resilient partnerships and maintaining high safety performance across all levels of its operations.

Commenting on the recognition, Eng. Batti Al Shibli, Harbour Master at SOHAR Port and Freezone, said, “We are proud to receive the RoSPA Award for the second year in a row, a reflection of the strong partnerships we have built with our tenants, operators, and stakeholders across the port and freezone. This international recognition is a tangible outcome of our shared commitment to upholding world-class health and safety standards, while fostering an operational environment rooted in sustainability and efficiency. We remain focused on this path, working together to create a safer workplace that reflects our long-term vision of institutional excellence.

Europe

Details: Sania Aziz; Europe

Date: 27 June, 2025
Year: 2025

Marioff, a global leader in water mist fire protection, has introduced one of the fire protection industry's first Internet of Things (IoT) solutions specifically developed for high-pressure water mist systems.

This innovative technology enables continuous system visibility, real-time alerts, and centralised management, raising the standard for safety, operational efficiency, and reliability.

With over 30 years of experience developing the HI-FOG® fire protection system, Marioff continues to evolve its offering by integrating advanced digital capabilities.

The new IoT solution connects seamlessly with existing HI-FOG systems, allowing users to monitor system performance in real time, receive automated alerts for potential issues or maintenance needs, and manage multiple installations from a central interface.

The platform also provides actionable data insights to support predictive maintenance and enhance system reliability.

This marks a significant milestone in Marioff’s long-standing commitment to innovation and safety. As one of the pioneers of high-pressure water mist technology, the company is uniquely positioned to lead its evolution into the digital age.

The IoT solution will initially be made available to a select group of pilot users, with plans for a broader rollout to follow.

Internet of Things

Marioff’s latest development reflects its continued focus on engineering smarter, safer solutions that protect people, property, and operations.

“Our IoT solution marks a significant step forward in fire safety,” said Juha Ilvonen, CEO of Marioff. “It helps ensure systems are always monitored and ready—protecting people, property, and business continuity.”

The new system empowers users with remote access and centralised control across multiple sites.

“This technology gives customers full visibility of their HI-FOG system—no matter where they are,” added Samuli Bäck, manager, Connected Services. “It means faster decisions, proactive maintenance, and ultimately, safer environments.”

The Finland-based company describes its HI-FOG fire protection systems as the result of a simple yet powerful innovation: using high water pressure combined with specially designed sprinklers and spray heads to create a fine water mist that efficiently suppresses fires. This mist is precisely engineered for fire protection, using minimal water while maximising coverage and effectiveness.

Originally developed for large cruise ships, HI-FOG technology has evolved into a highly versatile solution now used in a broad range of settings, from industrial facilities to commercial and residential buildings.

Whether on land or at sea, HI-FOG high-pressure water mist systems deliver reliable fire protection and peace of mind.

Marioff’s advanced HI-FOG water mist fire suppression systems protect a diverse range of buildings, industrial processes, equipment, and critical infrastructure.

Middle East

Details: Sania Aziz; Middle East

Date: 26 June, 2025
Year: 2025

AFI Robotics, a Saudi robotic engineering firm, is redefining safety in some of the most hazardous industrial environments by deploying robotic systems designed specifically for confined, toxic, and high-risk areas.

These systems are transforming how aboveground storage tanks, oily ponds, sludge basins, and pits are inspected and cleaned, dramatically reducing the need for human entry into dangerous spaces.

Central to AFI’s safety-first approach is a submersible inspection robot that performs ultrasonic thickness testing while tanks remain online.

Aligned with API 653 and RP 575 standards, the robot provides real-time data on tank floor integrity, enabling predictive maintenance and significantly reducing both downtime and worker exposure to high-risk conditions.

In environments where sludge poses serious health and operational risks, AFI’s robotic desludging system can remove up to 150 cubic metres per hour while mapping sludge volumes.

The real-time visualisation allows operators to assess progress from a safe distance, avoiding the need for manual entry and the dangers of toxic fumes or structural collapse.

The company also offers AI-driven visual inspection platforms equipped with cameras and automated defect recognition.

Safeguarding workers

These tools are designed for flammable and contaminated zones, enabling remote operators to detect cracks, corrosion, and other anomalies without ever entering the hazardous area.

All of AFI’s solutions are designed to improve safety metrics while maintaining operational continuity. With proven deployments across petrochemical sites and manufacturing hubs, the technology is making confined space entry (and the risks that come with it) an increasingly unnecessary part of industrial maintenance.

AFI Robotics is a Saudi-based engineering company that specialises in robotic inspection and cleaning technologies for industrial environments.

Founded in 2020 and headquartered in Al Khobar, the company designs and deploys advanced robotic systems for in-service tank inspections, sludge removal, and visual assessments in high-risk areas.

In 2022, the company entered a formal joint venture with King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals and the Interdisciplinary Research Center for Intelligent Manufacturing and Robotics.

It has also received the university’s Vision to Venture Award in recognition of its contributions to industrial robotics research.

“Our mission has always been to engineer solutions that remove risk without removing operational continuity,” says Rabieh Ghossainy, founder and managing director of AFI Robotics. “Whether it's storage tank inspections or pit desludging, we build systems that keep operations in service, without compromise.”

“Saudi Arabia is not just adopting advanced industrial technologies, we're engineering them,” said Talal Al Hamdan, chairman of AFI Robotics, and prominent Saudi entrepreneur and businessman in manufacturing, marine, and high technology solutions inclusive of logistics under ASH Group. “At AFI Robotics, we're proving that homegrown innovation can lead standards in safety, efficiency, and operational resilience. Our robotics are designed for the region, tested in the region, and ready to transform how critical infrastructure is managed on an industry level.”

North America

Details: Louise Waters; North America

Topic: HSE
Region: North America
Date: 25 June 2025
Year: 2025

Salunda, a leader in digitised solutions for safety-critical industries, is experiencing increased activity in the Americas deepwater market, seeing a growth in demand for its patended latch monitoring technologies among major operators in the region.

The company recently achieved a successful deployment of its Latch Hawk monitoring system on a semi-submersible rig. Salunda’s Latch Hawk system is a fingerboard monitoring solution that removes the need for manual spotters or camera surveillance. Integrated with the drilling control system on the rig, Latch Hawk provides real-time feedback on the status of fingerboard latches on the drilling derrick. It warns if latches are stuck or out of specification, acting as a critical safety barrier to DROPS incidents on drill floors and helping crews proactively address issues and avoid equipment failures. This deployment features the second-generation Latch Hawk system, which includes advancements such as novel sensor technology, enhanced shock and vibration resistance, a more robust casing design, cloud-based digital condition monitoring and an extended battery life of more than seven years.

Alan Finlay, Salunda chief executive, said, “As operators strive for safer and more efficient performance, technologies like Latch Hawk play a critical role in reducing risk and helping prevent accidents before they occur.

“This latest deployment is part of a broader rollout across the region, which highlights the positive reception our technology continues to receive. This is a clear demonstration of how Latch Hawk is enabling crews to work more confidently, safely and with greater situational awareness. Consequently, operators in the region have observed a decrease in incidents involving fingerboards."

Middle East

Details: Louise Waters; Middle East

Topic: HSE
Region: Middle East
Date: 24 June 2025
Year: 2025

Middle East companies, government departments and HSE leaders have a strong showing in the list of recipients of the British Safety Council International Safety Awards 2025

The International Safety Awards, sponsored by HSI Donesafe, recognise and celebrate organisations from around the world that have demonstrated their commitment to preventing workplace injuries and work-related ill health during the previous calendar year. The awards also acknowledge organisations that have shown commitment to wellbeing and mental health at work. In 2025, 789 organisations from 45 countries won an International Safety Award, spanning all sectors. Only the best of the best wins an overall category award. Winners were celebrated at the British Safety Council's annual Gala Dinner held on 19 June in London.

Among the Middle East recipients, Reem Mohd Saeed Ahmad Hamdan, director general of Jordan’s Electricity Distribution Company (EDCO) scooped the CEO of the Year award. She has led strategic initiatives to improve occupational health and safety (OHS), energy efficiency, and gender inclusion, played a transformative role in health, safety, environmental sustainability, and workforce wellbeing in Jordan’s energy sector. Hamdan has redefined workplace safety, environmental stewardship, and employee empowerment in Jordan’s energy sector and she continues to set new standards for excellence in safety, sustainability, and leadership development.

Winner of the Health, Safety and Wellbeing Ambassador of the Year Award was Adnan Ahmed Al Ali, National Contracting Company Limited, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, whose leadership has transformed safety culture through active prevention and genuine care for employee welfare. His approach centres on human connections rather than just systems.

The Seize the Opportunity Award went to Dubai Municipality - Al Garhoud, Health and Safety Department for its response to the April 2024 Climatic Event in Dubai, which resulted in severe flooding. The Health and Safety Department demonstrated strong emergency preparedness, effective crisis management, and a commitment to innovation. Through rapid action, coordinated efforts, and advanced technologies, the department successfully mitigated risks, safeguarded public health, and reinforced Dubai’s resilience in the face of environmental challenges

Winner of the James Tye Award was Ala'aldeen Farhan Ali Al-Soukni, United Development Company Qatar, who has established an annual plan for health, safety and wellbeing across UDC, improving interaction across teams throughout The Pearl development and Gewan Island. From compliance audits to employee wellbeing initiatives, to implementation and enforcement of health and safety requirements for all communities across the complex environment, this has been a huge undertaking.

Dr. Maryam Bin Essa, deputy director of Health and Safety Department, Dubai Municipality, won the Rising Female Star of the Year Award. Her career at Dubai Municipality (DM) is testament to visionary leadership, innovative solutions, and steadfast commitment to health, safety, wellbeing, and environmental management (HSWE). While manager of the Environmental Health Section, she developed key policies and strategic initiatives, as well as making significant contributions to water safety, leading to 13 intellectual property recognitions that have benefited entities and service providers in Dubai.

The Environmental Award went to King Saud University, Medical City (KSUMC), Saudi Arabia's largest teaching hospital, which has developed a comprehensive disaster management strategy, including an Internal Disaster Management Plan, an External Disaster Management Plan, and a Hazard Vulnerability Assessment (HVA) tool to evaluate climate change risks. This proactive approach helps assess the likelihood and severity of natural events such as sandstorms, temperature extremes, and epidemics, guiding the hospital’s risk mitigation efforts.

Best in Sector awards went to Abu Dhabi’s Spaceage General Contracting Co WLL (construction); WSP (consultancy and advisory) for the Zayed National Museum; Alliad Company DMCC (hospitality and catering) Qatar Free Zone Authority (QFZ) (local government) and Ejadah Asset Management – DIFC (property management).

While Best in Country awards went to El Seif Engineering Contracting, Head Office in Saudi Arabia; WSP Middle East - South Surra Project (RA/257) in Kuwait; China State Construction Engineering Corp. Ltd (Egypt) & CSCEC International Installation Engineering Co., Ltd - Alamein Downtown Towers (Middle East other); Qatar Free Zone Authority (QFZ); and Dubai Municipality - Health & Safety Department.

Chief executive of British Safety Council, Mike Robinson said, “These awards demonstrate the commitment of all organisations represented, not only to the health and safety of their own workforces, but to the British Safety Council’s vision that no-one should be injured or made ill through their work. The safer and healthier workplaces you are building mean that more people get to go home safely at the end of each working day.

“In an age defined by rapid change, this commitment to worker health, safety, and wellbeing has never been so needed, nor so important. The world is changing, and access to knowledge and support are invaluable tools in navigating social, political, environmental and technological change. Our members, working in more than 60 countries, share this same commitment, understanding that healthier and safer workplaces are more productive and more profitable too.”

Middle East

Details: Sania Aziz; Middle East

Region: Middle East
Date: 23 Jun, 2025
Year: 2025

Teledyne Gas & Flame Detection has introduced the PS DUO, a new portable dual-gas detector designed to improve personal safety in hazardous environments.

The compact handheld device can detect two gases simultaneously using passive diffusion sensing, and features real-time monitoring with audible, visual and vibrating alarms to alert users when gas levels exceed safe limits.

The PS DUO offers a broad selection of gas combinations including carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), sulphur dioxide (SO₂), ammonia (NH₃), oxygen (O₂), hydrogen (H₂), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and ozone (O₃). Its ATEX/IECEx rating and 2-year warranty make it ideal for industrial settings. Users can select gas pairings tailored to their specific applications, such as H₂S and SO₂, particularly relevant in Middle Eastern operations.

The detector features a bright LCD screen displaying continuous gas concentration, wireless connectivity for easy data transfer, and internal memory capable of storing 30 alarm logs. Housed in a rugged IP67-rated rubberised casing, the PS DUO is lightweight (200g), ergonomic, and designed for comfort and ease of use in demanding environments. It runs for up to two years on a single replaceable battery.

Pawel Kulik, product manager-portables, Teledyne Gas and Flame Detection, said, “It adds to an existing and highly successful range of personal safety and gas monitoring solutions that includes our portable Protégé ZM and PS200.”

The new device complements Teledyne’s existing personal gas monitoring range, including the Protégé ZM single-gas monitor and the PS200 four-gas compliance monitor, both known for reliability and ease of use in hazardous locations.

Middle East

Details: Sania Aziz; Middle East

Date: 20 June, 2025
Year: 2025

The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) in Abu Dhabi will host the Occupational Health and Safety Week 2025 from 23-27 June, featuring a two-day forum themed “Growth in Artificial Intelligence and Digitalisation: A Leap in the Right Direction for Workplace Safety and Health.”

The forum underscores DMT’s dedication to harnessing artificial intelligence and digital technologies to foster safer and more sustainable workplaces.

The event will showcase advanced tools such as big data analytics, the Internet of Things (IoT), and augmented and virtual reality to boost performance efficiency, reduce workplace accidents and injuries, and enhance risk prediction and management.

Through panel discussions and specialised workshops, the forum will promote expertise development, knowledge sharing, and strengthen local and international partnerships, aligning with the National Strategy for Occupational Health and Safety and Abu Dhabi’s Occupational Health and Safety System to minimise risks and improve employee wellbeing.

The forum will convene leading experts from organisations including the International Institute of Risk Management, Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, Khalifa University, and the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility).

Contributions from entities such as Abu Dhabi City Municipality, Al Ain City Municipality, and Abu Dhabi Ports will highlight initiatives to optimise workplace standards and enhance employee health and satisfaction.

The event will conclude with a discussion session to evaluate key insights and provide recommendations to advance Abu Dhabi’s occupational health and safety framework, supporting institutional integration and the Emirate’s vision for sustainable development and digitally adaptive communities.

These efforts aim to foster safer, more resilient workplaces in line with global best practices.

Complementing the forum, DMT and its affiliates will launch awareness campaigns throughout the week to elevate workplace wellbeing and safety standards across Abu Dhabi.

HE Dr Salem Al Kaabi, Director General of Operations Affairs at DMT, said, "The second edition of the Occupational Health and Safety Week underscores our ongoing efforts to creating safer, healthier workplaces by leveraging digitalisation and artificial intelligence as transformative tools to enhance safety standards and improve employee well-being."

North America

Details: Sania Aziz; North America

Date: 19 June, 2025
Year: 2025

Honeywell has announced that Southwest Airlines is equipping its entire Boeing 737 fleet with SmartRunway and SmartLanding software to bolster runway safety.

Enabled through the Honeywell Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) already installed on Southwest’s aircraft, over 700 planes have been activated with this technology to date.

SmartRunway and SmartLanding enhance flight crew situational awareness during taxiing, take-off, and landing by providing aural and visual alerts to promote stabilised approaches.

The software proactively warns pilots of excessive speed, excessive altitude, or incorrect runway approaches, helping to prevent incidents that could lead to runway accidents.

Certified for most Airbus, Boeing, and numerous business aviation platforms, this technology strengthens safety across diverse aircraft types.

Lack of training

Ocean workers reported the highest rates of workplace harm across all sectors, with 25% experiencing harm from their work in the past two years, compared to 18% of other workers.

Alarmingly, occupational safety and health (OSH) training is severely lacking, with 68% of ocean workers reporting they have never received such training, and only 25% having accessed it in the last two years.

Lloyd’s Register Foundation is urging governments, employers, and policymakers to recognise ocean workers as frontline workers in the context of climate change.

The charity calls for urgent action to improve safety training and protections to address the disproportionate risks faced by this group.

Nancy Hey, director of evidence and insight at Lloyd’s Register Foundation, said, “It is imperative that we prioritise OSH training for ocean workers and change the assumption that this must only be done once. Training is a continuous process, not a one-off event, which requires adequate funding and widespread industry support.

“Stronger safety standards must be tailored to the unique challenges of working on, or near, the water, including protections against severe weather and isolation-related stress. Without them, ocean workers, who play such a pivotal role in our global economy, will be at increasingly heightened risk as our climate continues to change.”

“However, their frontline status means ocean workers will also have knowledge and expertise on how we can safely adapt to climate change, and this is learning we should look to draw on in other sectors as they are also put under increasing climate-related stress.”

Professor Maximo Q. Mejia, Jr., president of the World Maritime University, said, “Seafaring and commercial fishing have traditionally been recognised as the world’s most hazardous occupations. Aside from already challenging conditions that have perennially been associated with shipboard life, our ocean workers face new and even more serious risks brought about by climate change. The World Risk Poll provides us with important and updated data and evidence that should inform any policy designed to protect not only our ocean workers, but the planet itself.”

Chirag Bahri, international operations manager at the International Seafarers Welfare and Assistance Network (ISWAN), and a former seafarer, commented, “In addition to the harsh weather, ocean workers have to deal with a variety of internal issues which lead to anxiety and stress, such as loneliness, working with a diverse and international crew, and being physically separated from their loved ones. This study emphasises that ocean workers are also subject to quiet storms in the form of insufficient training and fear of job loss. Their wellbeing is just as important as the work they do, so they should receive better training that helps to promote their occupational health and safety. The global economy depends on their resilience and power, and in order to safeguard the environment and humanity, we must adopt sustainable solutions.”

Middle East

Details: Sania Aziz; Middle East

Date: 16 Jun, 2025
Year: 2025

The International Code Council (ICC), a global authority on building safety and construction standards, will take part in the 7th edition of Big 5 Construct Egypt, held from 17-19 June 2025 at the Egypt International Exhibition Center.

Mohammed Amer, managing director – ICC MENA, will present a session titled “Highlighting the Impact of ICC on Innovative Building Practices in the MENA.”

His address will explore ICC’s expanding role in the region, with a focus on its International Codes (I-Codes) and the wider ICC Family of Solutions.

Using real-world case studies, Amer will demonstrate how ICC works with governments, developers, and industry experts to promote international best practices throughout the MENA construction ecosystem.

In Egypt, ICC plays a vital role in advocating for modern regulatory frameworks, encouraging safer, more sustainable infrastructure. Through strategic partnerships and capacity-building initiatives, the organisation continues to support the country’s construction growth, while aligning it with global standards.

Bringing together more than 350 exhibitors from over 20 countries, Big 5 Construct Egypt showcases cutting-edge innovations driving regional construction forward.

Held under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister of Egypt, and supported by the Egyptian Armed Forces Engineering Authority, the event serves as a key platform for shaping the built environment in North Africa.

Speaking about ICC’s participation, Amer stated, “At ICC, our mission is to support governments and industry stakeholders in implementing internationally recognised codes and standards that enhance safety, resilience, and sustainability. In Egypt and across the GCC, our efforts have played a key role in advancing building regulatory modernisation, integrating smart technologies, and strengthening the professional capacity needed to apply best practices effectively.”

person-with_hard_hat_superimposed_on image_of_Riyadh

Middle East

Details: Louise Waters; Middle East

Region: Middle East
Date: 13 June 2025
Year: 2025

The Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the International Labour Organization (ILO) have signed an agreement to launch the third phase of their Programme of Cooperation, to strengthen labour market governance and promote decent work in the Kingdom

The new phase will build on ongoing collaboration and will focus on seven key areas, one of which is strengthening occupational health and safety. The other areas are promoting inclusive social dialogue and representation; ensuring fair recruitment and labour mobility of migrant workers; protecting the rights of domestic workers; expanding migrant workers’ access to fair judicial processes; improving social protection systems; and supporting the adoption of a fair and non-discriminatory minimum wage system.

The programme has a strong focus on improving conditions for vulnerable workers, including migrant and domestic workers, who make up a significant share of the workforce in Saudi Arabia. It will also enhance the institutional capacity of Saudi worker and employer representatives, including the Saudi National Committee of Workers Committees and the Federation of Saudi Chambers.

To support the programme, the ILO will establish a project team in Riyadh to provide technical assistance and coordinate activities with national stakeholders.

“This next phase of cooperation focuses on practical reforms to strengthen labour market institutions, improve working conditions and expand protections for vulnerable workers,” said ILO Director-General Gilbert F. Houngbo. “It reflects a shared commitment to advancing labour policies that are aligned with international standards and national priorities.”

Saudi Minister of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD) Ahmed AlRajhi, said, “Our renewed partnership with the ILO underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to a fair, inclusive and future-ready labour market. Guided by Vision 2030, we have introduced wide-ranging reforms - from expanding labour mobility and wage protection to pioneering the first National Policy to Eliminate Forced Labour in the region, strengthening labour protections and promoting social justice at every level. As our labour market evolves, collaboration with the ILO helps us align with international standards and build a more sustainable and resilient future of work.”

Previous cooperation has made a significant contribution to labour reform in Saudi Arabia, supporting the development of national employment policies, advancing occupational safety and health standards, strengthening social dialogue institutions and promoting rights at work. It has resulted in improvements in female labour force participation, social dialogue mechanisms, skills governance and labour inspection systems.

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