Middle East

• Date: 19 May, 2025
• Year: 2025

Last month, Dubai Municipality hosted an event at Canadian University Dubai, themed “Artificial Intelligence Trends in Shaping the Future of Occupational Health and Safety,” coinciding with the International Labour Organization’s World Day for Safety and Health at Work.

As we reflect on this three weeks later, Dubai’s pioneering use of AI in workplace safety continues to set a global benchmark, aligning with the UAE’s vision for innovation and sustainability.

The event, attended by H.E. Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Acting Director General of Dubai Municipality, H.E. Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation, and H.E. Buti Saeed Al Ghandi, Chancellor of Canadian University Dubai, alongside experts and academics, explored how AI is redefining workplace safety.

Discussions highlighted next-generation technologies such as predictive analytics, AI-powered wearable sensors, and automated compliance systems that enhance well-being, sustainability, and operational efficiency.

These tools are critical to preventing occupational accidents and diseases, a global priority emphasised by the ILO.

Growing use of digitalisation

Dubai Municipality showcased its digital transformation strides, including advanced robots that measure air pollutants in real time, a smart interactive map of the emirate with AI-driven geographic data for rapid alert responses, and virtual reality-based training programs for employees. 

As 2025 progresses, Dubai’s April vision remains a call to action.

Global AI adoption in workplace safety is projected to grow significantly, potentially reducing incidents by 25% by 2026, per industry trends.

Dubai Municipality urges companies to integrate AI into their operations.

Its smart monitoring platforms and applications, built on a foundation of 3D printing and other innovative technologies, offer a model for scalable safety solutions that benefit organisations of all sizes.

This forward-thinking approach supports the UAE’s Vision 2031, which prioritises innovation and societal well-being. By fostering collaboration and welcoming new ideas, Dubai Municipality continues to lead the charge in creating healthier, safer work environments worldwide.

In the future, businesses are encouraged to adopt AI-driven tools and partner with local authorities to align with Dubai’s standards.

• Topic: HSE
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 15 May 2025
• Year: 2025

Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) has recorded the best ever safety performance in its history

The company achieved a historic milestone of 35 million safe working hours without a Lost Time Injury (LTI) on 8 May 2025, reaffirming its position as a regional and global safety leader.

Alba’s chief executive officer, Ali Al Baqali, commented, “35 million safe working hours is a groundbreaking achievement in the global aluminium industry. This milestone is a testament to the thousands of moments of mindful action, the collective responsibility embraced wholeheartedly by each and every member of our dedicated workforce and the power of a shared vision for a safer tomorrow.”

Alba’s 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.

This year, its campaigns have included a plant-wide Ramadan safety and health campaign, aimed at prioritising the safety and well-being of employees and contractors’ workers through a range of various interactive activities. These included lectures by external and internal experts as well as plant visits promoting meaningful engagement between management and shopfloor employees.

Over the past seven years, Alba has achieved an 87.5% decrease in injuries, underscoring its dedication to safeguarding its workforce.

A proven track record

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).

The RoSPA President’s award is given to organisations demonstrating exceptional Safety and Health performance over the years, and recognises the company’s commitment to ensure a safe and healthy work environment as well as setting global benchmarks in safety and health.

“At Alba, Safety is not just a priority or a practice, it’s the bedrock upon which all our operations and processes are built,” said Al Baqali. “We are not just building a safer workplace; we are building a culture of safety that prioritises the well-being of our people. Receiving this distinguished award for the third consecutive year proves that we are on the right track in our Safety journey and fuels our determination to advance with even greater dedication, ensuring the safety and well-being of our most valuable assets - our people, encompassing both our employees and contractors’ workers,”

Lord Jordan of Bournville, RoSPA's Life president, acknowledged the exceptional leadership and inspiration coming from the company’s CEO saying, “As one of the cornerstones of Bahrain’s economy, Alba sends out a powerful message to all industries. ‘You can be successful and safe’.”

The NSC awards are granted to organisations that meet strict criteria based on their safety performance in accordance with the OSHA requirements in the USA. The six awards scooped by Alba this year were the Million Work Hours Award, Occupational Excellence Achievement Award, Perfect Record Award, Safety Leadership Award, Significant Improvement Award and Milestone Award.

• Topic: HSE
• Region: Middle East
• Date: May 2025
• Year: 2025

Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) has announced EternAI-AC, a product series centred around incorporating carbon offsets gained from operational efficiency

EternAI-AC allows operators to select verified greenhouse gas offsets, originating from Alba's improved operational efficiency. The series includes a carbon reduction classification system rating offsets based on their footprint—from as low as net-zero to up to four tonnes of CO₂e per tonne.

Offsets listed on EternAI-AC series platforms can then be integrated into organisations' own carbon measuring and environmental strategies.

Ali Al Baqali, Alba's CEO, described the product series as "a game-changer in the low-carbon aluminium market. By embedding verified carbon offsets generated directly from our own operational improvements, we are offering our customers an unparalleled level of transparency and confidence in their sustainability journey, providing a distinct advantage in a world increasingly focused on carbon accountability."

• Topic: HSE
• Region: Middle East
• Date: May 2025
• Year: 2025

Saudi's Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has announced plans to put government employees through mandatory occupational fitness testing

Provisional regulations are expected to apply to all employees and workers in public entities, private sector establishments, and non-profit organisations. New candidates will have to undergo tests prior to appointment. All tests will be conducted by specialists under the supervision of an occupational medicine specialist.

A survey platform has been published to invite the public and stakeholders to share their thoughts on the proposal, which spans three types of tests (general medical testing, additional specialised testing, and psychological testing) and aims to promote occupational health among government workers.

Tests will deliver tiered results, including: medically fit and permitted to practice the profession or job for which the candidate is applying; medically fit, with the restrictions or considerations required when practicing the profession for which the candidate is applying, including the duration; and medically unfit, with the restrictions or considerations required when practicing the profession for which the candidate is applying, including the duration.

Should occupational fitness requirements not be met, workers or candidates will not be allowed to continue practising their profession. Management will support them in changing their profession.

• Region: Middle East
• Date: 7 May, 2025
• Year: 2025

The International Code Council (ICC) has launched the 45th edition of its annual Building Safety Month campaign this May, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of safe and sustainable construction practices worldwide.

The campaign underscores the critical role of modern, consistently updated building codes in ensuring structural safety and resilience.

Running throughout the month, the initiative seeks to enhance understanding of the key elements and professionals that contribute to safe building practices.

This year’s theme, “Game On!”, is a call to action, urging individuals, businesses, and communities to engage in strengthening building safety through education and active participation.

From schools and worksites to city halls and job sites, the campaign promotes local involvement—especially in fast-developing regions such as the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where urban growth heightens the need for robust regulatory frameworks.

The ICC’s growing presence in the GCC region reflects the organisation’s belief in the necessity of enforceable, evolving building codes that keep pace with technological advancements, climate concerns, and population pressures.

This year’s programme also includes the second annual International Building Safety Day (IBSD) on 22 May 2025.

Introduced last year with backing from 28 international organisations, IBSD spotlights the link between building safety and public health, wellbeing, and economic resilience.

It serves as a global reminder to governments, policymakers and industry leaders to keep safety at the forefront of construction practices.

In celebration of Building Safety Month 2025, the International Code Council (ICC) and its global partners will mark the month of May with a series of themed weeks, highlighting the many facets of building safety through official recognitions, public education and community outreach.

Key themes

Building Safety Month 2025 will be marked throughout May with a series of themed weeks aimed at raising awareness about the critical role of building safety in everyday life.

The following weeks explore strategies for strengthening safety frameworks, from advocating for policy improvements to preparing for natural disasters. Professionals who uphold safety standards will be celebrated during the fourth week, while the final week, themed “Going into Overtime”, will examine emerging trends and innovations shaping global resilience. Through these activities, ICC’s campaign aims to foster a broader understanding of modern building practices and inspire ongoing commitment to safety across the built environment.

Mohamed Amer, managing director of ICC MENA, stated, “ICC MENA’s mission has always been to strengthen the safety and integrity of buildings while supporting the region’s extraordinary pace of development. As cities across the GCC continue to grow vertically and technologically, the importance of compliance with unified, robust building codes becomes even more essential, not only to protect lives and property but to drive sustainable and inclusive growth.”

He further added, “Building safety is not a one-time action; it’s a continuous commitment that involves government leaders, private-sector innovators and community stakeholders. Through our advocacy and partnerships, we aim to create a culture of safety that lasts for generations. We are proud to be participating in multiple regional events across the full ecosystem of building safety, and we’re pleased to see growing momentum around both Building Safety Month and IBSD — a timely reminder of the shared responsibility and collective action needed to elevate safety standards across the built environment."

• Topic: Industrial
• Region: Middle East
• Date: 6 May 2025
• Year: 2025

Etihad Water and Electricity (EtihadWE) held a week of awareness and engagement activities around World Day for Safety and Health at Work, which took place on 28 April

With the theme of shared responsibility and proactive prevention, the programme featured a range of initiatives aimed at strengthening occupational health and safety practices across all levels of the organisation.

A series of awareness sessions were organised in collaboration with the Civil Defence, involving staff involved in field operations and site supervision.

Other sessions, led by internal teams, addressed everyday risks and highlighted the importance of observing safe work practices.

Training and drills

The week also included interactive competitions, quizzes, and knowledge-sharing initiatives that encouraged greater involvement from employees across departments.

EtihadWE's Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Department plays a central role in cultivating a safe and healthy work environment, implementing awareness programmes, including onsite guidance, first aid training, fire safety workshops, and targeted safety e-messages.

In 2024 alone, EtihadWE conducted 142 training sessions and 64 evacuation drills across various sites.

Additionally, regular inspections are carried out to monitor compliance with safety standards and assess work areas, helping to identify and mitigate potential risks.

The company also maintains a robust emergency response and evacuation framework, with clear protocols for scenarios such as fires, chemical spills, injuries, and natural disasters.

Eng. Yousif Ahmed Al Ali, CEO of Etihad Water and Electricity, said, “At EtihadWE, safety is a shared responsibility and a core value — not just a protocol. Our people are at the heart of every plan we execute and every service we provide, and it is our duty to ensure they return home safely every day. Through continuous awareness, active participation, and clear procedures, we aim to build a workplace where everyone feels empowered and protected.”

• Region: Middle East
• Date: 28 April, 2025
• Year: 2025

A new report from the International Labour Organization (ILO) explores how AI, digitalisation, robotics and automation are improving worker health and wellbeing in workplaces worldwide, while underlining the need for proactive policies to ensure these technologies are implemented safely and equitably

The report, titled Revolutionizing Health and Safety: The Role of AI and Digitalization at Work, highlights how robots help reduce risks and improve efficiency by taking on hazardous tasks, assisting in surgeries, and optimising logistics. AI-powered systems enhance safety and health monitoring, and streamline tasks and operations, easing workloads and driving innovation – even in traditionally low-tech sectors. 

“Digitalisation offers immense opportunities to enhance workplace safety. Robots can replace workers in hazardous ‘3D jobs’, which can be dirty, dangerous, and demeaning. Automation can reduce repetitive tasks, such as in factory production lines or in administrative work, allowing workers to take on more challenging tasks,” said Manal Azzi, team lead on OSH Policy at the ILO. “But for us to fully benefit from these technologies, we must ensure they are implemented without incurring new risks.”

Technology’s impact on safety and health

The report highlights that advanced robotics and automation, the use of virtual and extended reality, as well as new tools such as smart wearable devices that provide real-time risk detection or environmental sensors that track air quality, are transforming safety and health by preventing accidents and reducing hazardous exposures. Furthermore, digitalisation is leading to the rise of hybrid and remote work arrangements that are creating flexibility and improving mental health.

VR is transforming training by providing immersive, interactive experiences for high-risk environments that are difficult to simulate theoretically, such as emergency response, fire training and working at heights. The report highlights an example from Qatar, where The Qatar Ministry of Labour, in cooperation with the ILO, launched a VR-based training programme for labour inspectors, which enhances OSH enforcement by allowing inspectors to explore virtual construction sites, identify workplace risks and correct safety violations without entering hazardous environments. The programme also improves guidance for employers and workers, strengthening compliance with OSH standards.

However, these advancements may also bring in new risks. While robots effectively take on hazardous tasks, workers who maintain, repair, or collaborate with these machines may face new dangers. Unpredictable robotic behaviours, system failures, or cyber threats can compromise safety. Ergonomic risks may arise from human-robot interaction, as well as from the use of wearables and exoskeletons that lack proper fit, usability, or comfort.

The study highlights that over-reliance on AI and automation may reduce human oversight, which would, in turn, increase OSH risks, while algorithm-driven workloads and being continuously connected can contribute to stress, burnout, and mental health issues.

The report also exposes safety and health risks faced by workers across the digital supply chain, from those in extraction processes to those powering AI, as well as workers handling electronic waste.

Global policy response and the role of the ILO

The report highlights regulatory gaps in managing OSH risks linked to digitalisation and calls for stronger global, regional, and national policies. The ILO’s OSH conventions (Nos. 155 and 187) provide a foundation for ensuring the right to a safe and healthy workplace in the digital era.

Policies and regulations worldwide increasingly include new measures covering robotic safety and human-robot interaction, the right to disconnect, improved algorithmic management of work, and safe telework and platform work.

Worker involvement is essential at every stage of technology adoption, the report argues. Training and awareness raising initiatives are key to ensuring safe use of new technologies. Further research will be needed to fully understand the long-term occupational safety and health impacts of digital transformation.

• Region: Middle East
• Date: 24 April, 2025
• Year: 2025

With World Day for Safety and Health at Work approaching, it is an ideal time for businesses to reflect on the importance of maintaining health and safety in every workplace.

Gavin Scarr Hall, director of Health & Safety at Peninsula, says, “Health & safety is not just the responsibility of select few – it’s something that affects all of us, every day. Whether you’re in the office, at home or working remotely, we all play a vital role in creating and maintaining a safe environment. While great advances have been made, there are still far too many mistakes being made by businesses across the country many of which are easily avoidable and quick to fix. I’ve put together a list of the top 5 most common mistakes my team has found over the last year.”

Failing to display the Health & Safety Law poster
A surprisingly common oversight among businesses is not displaying the mandatory Health & Safety Law poster. The poster outlines the legal responsibilities of both employers and employees regarding workplace safety. Businesses employing staff are legally obliged to either display the poster where it is easily visible or distribute the official leaflet to each employee. “So, take it out of the drawer and get it on the wall,” urges Scarr Hall.

Not sharing risk assessments with staff
Completing a risk assessment is only part of the process; failing to involve employees is a mistake seen all too often. Staff typically have detailed knowledge of the practical risks associated with their work, and involving them helps create more effective safety controls. Sharing the outcomes also promotes greater compliance and fosters a culture of collective responsibility.

Neglecting health & safety training
Employers are required by law to provide appropriate information, instruction, and training to employees, contractors, and site visitors to ensure safe working practices. Training must be accessible, taking into account the varying language skills, educational backgrounds, and learning abilities of workers. Selecting the right method—whether classroom training, on-the-job instruction, or toolbox talks—ensures employees receive the knowledge they need to work safely.

Poor housekeeping practices
Workplaces must be kept clean and well-maintained, as required by safety and welfare regulations. Good housekeeping is essential not only for hygiene but also for accident prevention. Employers should implement formal maintenance and cleaning routines, while employees should also be responsible for keeping their workspaces tidy and hazard-free. Policies must clearly outline these expectations.

Overlooking mental health and work-related stress
Mental health issues are now the leading cause of workplace absence, with over half a million workers suffering from work-related stress in the UK alone. “The earlier an employee’s symptoms of stress at work are recognised the easier it is to control and manage,” says Scarr Hall. To address this, employers should implement a work-related stress policy that details the company's commitment to prevention and the measures in place to support affected employees.

• Region: Middle East
• Date: 21 April, 2025
• Year: 2025

Wolters Kluwer, a global provider of professional information, software solutions, and services, has released new survey findings revealing significant trends around Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption in Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) management.

According to the survey, 49% of EHS functions plan to invest in AI within the next 12 months, and 77% prioritise AI skills when recruiting.

Richard Pulliam, SVP and General Manager of Wolters Kluwer EHS & ESG, commented, “AI promises to revolutionise EHS by enabling leaders to collect data, and then interpret, plan, predict and act with unprecedented speed, accuracy, and efficiency. With nearly half of EHS teams planning to invest in AI in the coming year, the ability to collect high-quality data from across the enterprise will be crucial to optimising this potential. We are deeply committed to driving innovation and providing game-changing technologies to ensure EHS teams are future-ready.”

EHS teams slow to adopt AI compared to other business functions
While AI is reshaping many industries, EHS teams have been slower to implement the technology. Only 28% of EHS practitioners reported current AI use within their departments. In contrast, 62% said AI adoption in their EHS function lagged behind other areas of their business.

Investment in AI is growing, but budget clarity is needed
Nearly half of the survey respondents reported active plans to invest in AI technologies over the next year. However, 38% were uncertain about their department’s AI investment intentions, suggesting a need for clearer communication about available budgets and strategies. Only 13% of respondents stated there were no plans to invest in AI.

Developing AI skills a rising priority for EHS teams
Building AI capabilities is becoming increasingly important. According to the survey, 25% of EHS practitioners currently have no AI skills or experience, and 61% classify themselves as beginners. Encouragingly, half of EHS functions have either already provided AI training or plan to offer it soon.

When it comes to recruitment, AI skills are highly valued. A significant 77% of respondents noted that AI expertise is an important consideration when hiring, reflecting a dual strategy of upskilling existing teams and attracting new talent with relevant capabilities.

The survey, conducted with 162 EHS professionals at the Wolters Kluwer Sustainable Performance Forum (SPF) 2025, underscores a clear shift: while EHS has been slower to adopt AI compared to other fields, investment and skills development are becoming key priorities. As businesses continue to focus on improving efficiency, safety, and compliance, AI is poised to play a critical role in transforming EHS practices.

• Region: Middle East
• Date: 18 April, 2025
• Year: 2025

The UK's Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) has announced a significant training contract with Bahrain-based Gulf Aluminium Rolling Mill (Garmco)

Under the agreement, Garmco is licensed to deliver IOSH’s Working Safely, Managing Safely and Fire Safety Awareness courses.  IOSH has also approved the company’s three tailored half-day courses on CoSSH, confined spaces, and permit to work.

The contract demonstrates Garmco’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the safety of its human capital as well as representing another positive step that IOSH is taking to improve workers’ health and safety in the Gulf States.

Mohamed Rafea, CEO of Garmco, said, “Becoming an IOSH-approved training provider marks a significant milestone in our efforts to foster a proactive safety culture and support our employees’ professional growth.”

He added that the partnership would enable Garmco to provide international safety training that strengthens its team’s competence and knowledge, ensuring they are better equipped to implement advanced safety practices and comply with internationally recognised safety standards.

Iain Mcintosh, senior business development manager at IOSH, said, “We are thrilled to have teamed up with Garmco. It’s another demonstration of what we can offer through our IOSH for Business initiative. We look forward to helping the company to create an internal training function that will strengthen its critical safety initiatives and enhance the expertise of its staff.”

GARMCO works proactively to ensure the health and safety of all employees, contractors and visitors through stringent measures that are governed by GARMCO’s occupational health and safety policies aligned with ISO 45001:2018 and other relevant international and national standards.

The company has a fully-equipped health centre that conducts regular medical check-ups for staff, as well as a fire station that organises fire drills and emergency evacuation exercises. Health and safety rules and guidelines are continuously communicated to all staff, and related key performance indicators are monitored on a monthly basis, together with a review of employee feedback. Job safe practice training and preventive campaigns are conducted on a regular basis, fostering a culture of occupational health and safety. 

As an example, in December 2024, GARMCO organised a Safety Week campaign to raise awareness of the importance of safety in the workplace and equip employees with the necessary information and skills to protect themselves and their colleagues through interactive activities that enhance effective participation among employees.

In February, GARMCO employees participated in the fourth edition of the Bahrain Firefighter Challenge, which brought together firefighters from various government and private sectors, along with amateur participants, to in challenges simulating the field tasks of firefighters. The event contributes to enhancing professionalism among firefighters and fosters community partnership in promoting a culture of safety.

• Region: Middle East
• Date: 16 April, 2025
• Year: 2025

The world’s busiest international airport has been awarded the Airports Council International (ACI) Safety Recognition Award 2025, recognising Dubai International’s proactive and innovative approach to aerodrome safety, positioning the airport as a leading example of safety leadership in global aviation

Presented during the 2nd ACI Asia-Pacific & Middle East Regional Assembly and Conference in New Delhi, India, the award was accepted by Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, and Buti Qurwash, Senior Vice President of Safety & Security. ACI’s recognition is given to airport operators demonstrating a commitment to safety that extends beyond regulatory compliance, with a focus on operational resilience and risk management.

The airport has implemented several internal initiatives aimed at fostering a culture of safety. These include the Safety Superstar Award, highlighting exemplary individual safety practices, as well as a confidential reporting system to encourage early identification of safety concerns by employees at all levels.

Interactive educational tools, such as safety videos and targeted surveys, along with joint campaigns between departments and partners, further reinforce safety awareness and shared responsibility. Through the use of data, smart technologies, and real-time insights, DXB is enhancing its capacity to manage operational risks and anticipate future challenges.

Griffiths noted that safety at DXB is seen not only as a regulatory obligation but as a foundational element of airport operations. This recognition from ACI reflects the efforts of teams and partners working collaboratively to ensure a safe, smooth experience for passengers and stakeholders alike.

• Region: Middle East
• Date: 14 April, 2025
• Year: 2025

e& UAE has launched a new initiative to modernise telecom tower inspections using autonomous drones enhanced with artificial intelligence (AI).

The rollout marks a significant step in transforming infrastructure maintenance, offering improved safety, faster operations, and reduced environmental impact.

The system integrates real-time data analytics, autonomous flight, and AI to streamline the monitoring and upkeep of telecom towers throughout the country. Flights are operated remotely via the company’s Drones Operations Centre, where teams monitor each mission in real time, enforce safety protocols, and verify the accuracy of inspections.

Unlike manual inspections that often involve significant risks and downtime, these drones can autonomously navigate complex sites, helping to protect workers while increasing the speed and efficiency of assessments. The drones are also designed to assist in emergency response scenarios, where they can support the delivery of aid and ensure network continuity in hard-to-reach or hazardous locations.

Using advanced AI-powered analytics, the drones can identify structural faults or irregularities on the spot, allowing maintenance teams to act before problems escalate. This proactive maintenance approach reduces potential service disruptions and extends the lifespan of infrastructure.

Beyond structural inspections, the drones can also support oversight of safety procedures and detect unauthorised activity around telecom assets, contributing to a more secure and resilient network.

All data collected during inspections is fed into e& UAE’s digital infrastructure management platform. This enables predictive maintenance planning, more efficient asset use, and a smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional methods of tower inspection.

Marwan bin Shakar, acting chief technology & information officer, e& UAE, said, “The integration of autonomous drones into our operations reflects our commitment to reimagining network operations through cutting-edge innovation that improves reliability, safety and sustainability. Through AI-powered insights and real-time control, we are enhancing the safety and accuracy of telecom tower inspections while enabling faster, data-driven decisions that future-proof our infrastructure. And with the support of the Drones Operations Centre, we’re demonstrating how technology can elevate operational resilience while supporting the UAE’s broader ambitions for smart, sustainable cities.”