Regional coverage

Middle East

Details: Louise Waters; Middle East

Topic: Fire Safety
Region: Middle East
Date: 2nd October 2026
Year: 2026

As the GCC market for thermal image fire detection grows in sectors ranging from refining to data centres, two of Teledyne FLIR's thermal imaging cameras have received UL 2684 listing, providing fire engineers, insurers and asset owners across the GCC with an independently evaluated benchmark for thermal image fire detection

Teledyne FLIR's A40 and A70 (Axx-Series) thermal imaging cameras are listed as thermal image fire detectors under ANSI/CAN/UL 2684, the joint US/Canadian standard for video and thermal image detectors used in fire alarm systems. This gives Gulf projects an NFPA-aligned benchmark for thermal image fire detection, as the UL 2684 listing complements the 2025 edition of NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, which introduced a dedicated category for thermal image fire detection.

How does this help the GCC?

For the GCC, where many fire protection frameworks draw upon NFPA codes and UL-listed equipment is already part of established project review, this makes it easier to evaluate and specify thermal image fire detection solutions within critical infrastructure projects.

UL 2684 sets out defined requirements for fire testing, environmental and electrical performance, and durability, providing stakeholders with equipment that has been independently tested against a published standard by an accredited laboratory.

Thermal image fire detection has a range of applications in the Gulf markets, given the infrastructure being built and operated throughout the region, as it enables the detection of anomalies in temperature before smoke and fire appears, allowing for early intervention to prevent fire breaking out and thereby promoting a more proactive safety management approach.

Thermal image fire detection is increasingly valuable in petrochemical and refining facilities, where friction heating or equipment degradation can develop long before ignition. The same advantage applies to utilities and electrical infrastructure, battery energy storage systems, data centres, rooftop and utility-scale solar, manufacturing facilities, logistics hubs and other industrial assets where an abnormal temperature rise often represents the earliest indication of an emerging risk.

How does thermal image fire detection compare with traditional fire detection?

Traditional fire detection technologies respond to the products of combustion, such as smoke, flame, or heat reaching a detector. By that stage, the fire process has already begun.

A thermal image fire detector works at an earlier stage, measuring the temperature of the asset itself before smoke is generated. Unlike conventional thermal cameras used primarily for visualisation, a calibrated thermal image fire detector continuously measures temperature across every pixel in the scene.

By identifying thermal anomalies at an earlier stage, organisations can address developing issues through planned maintenance rather than emergency response. A loose electrical connection can be tightened, a battery module isolated, or a failing component replaced before operations are disrupted, thus reducing downtime, avoiding potential costs and contributing to plant reliability and business continuity.

As well as operational benefits, thermal monitoring can also support broader risk management and asset-protection strategies, as insurers, risk consultants, and infrastructure owners increasingly seek solutions supported by independently validated standards.

Teledyne FLIR's Axx-Series cameras combine thermal detection with integrated visible imaging to help operators verify alarm conditions quickly. Analytics are processed directly on the camera, reducing dependence on external servers while enabling rapid response. When alarm conditions are met, the cameras initiate fire alarm events through compatible fire alarm control systems.

Designed for line-of-sight monitoring of high-value assets, thermal image fire detection is intended to complement conventional fire detection technologies as part of a comprehensive fire protection strategy.

"Safety has always been at the heart of what we do, and in fire protection, safety runs on standards. A fire starts as heat, not smoke, and our cameras detect that heat before there is smoke or flame. The question we get in this region is not whether thermal detection works. It is what the device is listed to, and how that fits the code the authority is working from. Until now there was no listing to point to. That has changed," said Matthew Hasty, global vertical director for Science, Automation, and Early Fire Detection at Teledyne FLIR.

Middle East

Details: Louise Waters; Middle East

Date: 1st October 2026

Across the GCC and wider region, HSE is being reshaped by a combination of operational scale, workforce complexity, climate-related risk, digitalisation and changing expectations of safety leadership. In this interview, Shebin Abraham, founder of QHSE Directory, who has more than two decades of international HSE experience, discusses the changing HSE landscape, emerging risks, AI and digitalisation and how the profession is evolving. He concludes that the strongest future model will combine experience, data, technology, human judgement and collaboration.

HSE Review: Since we last spoke, what are some of the biggest changes you have observed in the HSE landscape across the GCC and wider region?

Shebin Abraham: Over the past few years, I have seen a significant shift in how organisations think about HSE.

Earlier, in many organisations, HSE was viewed primarily through the lens of compliance - meeting regulatory requirements, completing inspections, conducting training and closing observations.

Today, the conversation is becoming much broader.

Organisations are increasingly looking at risk prediction, worker wellbeing, operational resilience, process safety, environmental performance, contractor management and the use of technology to prevent incidents before they happen.

The regional operating environment is also changing rapidly. The scale of construction, infrastructure, energy, manufacturing, logistics and industrial development across the GCC means that HSE teams are managing increasingly complex operations and workforces.

Climate-related risks are another area that cannot be ignored. In the UAE, for example, occupational heat stress remains a significant operational consideration, with the 2026 midday work restriction running from June 15 to September 15.

But perhaps the biggest change I see is philosophical.

Good HSE is gradually moving from being reactive to being predictive.

The question is no longer only, "Did an incident happen?"

It is increasingly becoming: "What signals are telling us that an incident could happen, and what can we do before it does?"

That shift will define the next generation of HSE management.

HSE Review: What HSE priorities are organisations focusing on most today, and which emerging risks do you believe deserve much greater attention?

Shebin Abraham: The priorities vary by industry, but several themes are becoming common across the region.
Organisations are continuing to focus heavily on process safety, high-risk activities, contractor safety, emergency preparedness, occupational health, environmental compliance and workforce competency.

At the same time, I believe we need to broaden our definition of risk.

For example, heat stress and occupational health cannot be treated as seasonal or secondary issues. They need to become part of operational planning.

We also need to pay more attention to psychosocial risks, fatigue, human factors, ergonomics and the changing nature of work.

And then there is technology.

As organisations introduce automation, robotics, AI-powered systems, connected equipment and digital monitoring, we are creating new categories of risk alongside the opportunities.

Cybersecurity, human-machine interaction, algorithmic decision-making, data quality and over-reliance on automated systems will increasingly become relevant to HSE professionals.

The ILO's recent work on AI and digitalisation makes this point very clearly: technology can reduce hazardous exposure and improve monitoring, but it can also introduce new ergonomic, psychological, operational and cybersecurity risks.

The HSE professional of the future has to ask two questions simultaneously.

"What risk can this technology remove?" "What new risk does this technology create?"

HSE Review: With AI, technology and data increasingly entering the HSE space, where do you see the greatest opportunities - and where should organisations be cautious?

Shebin Abraham: I see enormous potential in technology, particularly when it is used to strengthen the work of HSE professionals rather than replace professional judgement.

AI can help organisations analyse large volumes of inspection data, identify recurring patterns, prioritise risks, analyse incident trends and support decision-making.

Computer vision, IoT sensors, wearables, environmental monitoring, digital permit-to-work systems, VR training and predictive analytics can also help move HSE from periodic observation towards continuous risk visibility.

We are already seeing this direction emerging across the industry.

But I would caution organisations against adopting technology simply because it is labelled "AI".

Technology is not the safety strategy. It is an enabler of the safety strategy.

If the underlying data is poor, AI can produce poor conclusions. If workers do not trust the system, adoption will suffer. If an organisation uses technology as a substitute for competent HSE professionals, it can create new vulnerabilities.

The ILO has also highlighted the importance of worker participation, appropriate governance and proactive risk assessment when introducing AI and digital technologies into occupational safety and health.

My approach is therefore simple: Use technology to see more, understand more and respond faster – but keep human expertise, accountability and worker involvement at the centre.

HSE Review: QHSE Directory has evolved significantly over the past year. What have you learned from the way the global HSE community is using and engaging with the platform?

Shebin Abraham: When QHSE Directory started, the idea was relatively simple: make it easier for HSE professionals and organisations to find the right safety solutions.

But our experience has shown us that the industry needs much more than a directory.

There is a huge ecosystem behind HSE – manufacturers, consultants, training providers, technology companies, freelancers, universities, conferences, procurement teams and, most importantly, the professionals working on the ground.

The challenge is often not that solutions don't exist.

The challenge is discovering the right solution, understanding it, trusting it and connecting with the right provider.

That is where QHSE Directory has evolved.

Today, we are building a broader ecosystem connecting HSE professionals, organisations, manufacturers, consultants, trainers and solution providers across markets. The platform now covers areas including HSE products, digital solutions, training, consultants, freelancers, universities and industry events.

One of the biggest things I have learned is that the HSE community is extremely willing to share knowledge when the platform creates genuine value.

Our growing professional network and engagement have reinforced something I have believed throughout my career: HSE is not a collection of isolated companies and professionals. It is an ecosystem.

QHSE Directory's long-term objective is therefore not simply to list companies. It is to make that ecosystem more connected, discoverable and accessible.

HSE Review: If you look five years ahead, what will the HSE profession need to do differently to remain relevant and stay ahead of emerging risks?

Shebin Abraham: I believe the next five years will require a fundamental change in the role of the HSE professional. We cannot remain focused only on compliance, inspections and incident investigation.

The HSE professional of the future will need to understand technology, data, business operations, human behaviour, sustainability and emerging risks alongside traditional safety knowledge.

We also need to become better at communicating with senior leadership.

Safety should not be presented only as a cost or compliance requirement. It should be connected to business continuity, productivity, operational resilience, workforce wellbeing, reputation and long-term value.

Another important change will be collaboration.

No single organisation has all the answers. There are excellent technologies, products, consultants, training providers and innovations being developed across different countries, but many of them remain invisible to the organisations that could benefit from them.

That is one of the reasons I believe platforms and professional ecosystems will become increasingly important.

Finally, we need to invest in people.

Technology will change the tools we use, but competent people wil still be at the heart of safety.

The HSE profession needs professionals who are technically strong, digitally aware, commercially conscious and willing to continuously learn.

If we can combine experience + data + technology + human judgement + collaboration, I believe we can build a much more proactive HSE ecosystem over the next five years.

HSE Review: After more than two decades working across different industries and countries, what is one lesson about HSE that has stayed with you throughout your career?

Shebin Abraham: If there is one lesson I have learned throughout my career, it is that safety is ultimately about people.

Procedures, standards, audits, technology and systems are all important. But none of them can replace the judgement, behaviour and commitment of the people doing the work.

I have worked across construction, oil and gas, offshore projects, manufacturing, shipyards, industrial operations and other high-risk environments. The technology and processes may change from project to project, but one thing remains constant: people need to understand the risk, believe that safety matters and have the confidence to speak up when something is not right.

That is why I remain optimistic about the future of HSE.

We have better technology, better data, better international knowledge-sharing and more innovative solutions than ever before.

Safety is ultimately about people.

The opportunity now is to connect all of these things together – and make sure they ultimately improve the safety and wellbeing of the people who go to work every day.

Middle East

Details: Middle East

Topic: HSE
Region: Middle East
Date: 29th September 2026
Year: 2026

As temperatures soar across the Arabian Peninsula during the peak of summer, the physical toll on outdoor workers becomes a critical concern for authorities and employers alike.

Protecting the workforce from extreme heat is not just a matter of compassion; it is a fundamental pillar of modern occupational safety. In a resolute effort to safeguard its vast private sector workforce, Saudi Arabia has officially concluded its stringent 2026 ban on working under direct sunlight.

The official conclusion and nationwide monitoring

The HRSD, working in tandem with the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, formally announced the successful conclusion of the 2026 implementation period for the midday work ban.

To ensure that private sector establishments adhered strictly to these life-saving regulations, the Ministry deployed extensive administrative resources across the Kingdom. Rather than relying solely on voluntary compliance, government inspection teams proactively canvassed construction sites, infrastructure projects, and other vulnerable outdoor workspaces. The immense scale of the monitoring effort reflects the government's zero-tolerance policy towards occupational hazards and the endangerment of workers.

By the numbers: inspections and accountability

The Ministry's rigorous enforcement strategy yielded significant data, illustrating both the high levels of compliance and the specific areas where immediate intervention was necessary. The key figures from the 2026 enforcement period highlight the highly proactive nature of the HRSD's operations:

Extensive Field Visits: To monitor compliance with the ban, the Ministry's inspection teams conducted over 17,000 field visits across the Kingdom, ensuring comprehensive geographical coverage.
Targeted Enforcement: The intensive monitoring and on-site checks resulted in the recording of 1,910 violations against non-compliant establishments that failed to protect their staff.
Community Engagement: Between the commencement of the ban and the 26th of August, the Ministry received and rapidly processed over 300 reports from the public and workers.

The mechanics of the midday work ban

Understanding the mechanics of the midday work ban provides excellent insight into its fundamental necessity. Annually implemented from the 15th of June through to the 15th of September, the regulation strictly prohibits any work under direct sunlight between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM.

By enforcing this mandatory break, the government actively shields millions of workers from the most dangerous parts of the day. Employers are consequently required to adjust their operating schedules—such as starting shifts much earlier in the morning or extending them into the cooler evening hours—to maintain productivity without ever compromising staff welfare.

Aligning with Saudi Vision 2030

This stringent approach to occupational health is not an isolated policy; it is deeply interwoven with the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030. A central objective of this transformative national agenda is to drastically improve the domestic work environment and elevate occupational safety and health standards to match or exceed global benchmarks.

By prioritising the physical well-being of the labour force, Saudi Arabia is cultivating a highly sustainable and attractive labour market. The strict enforcement of the midday work ban serves as a tangible demonstration of the Kingdom’s steadfast commitment to workplace safety.

Looking Forward

As the 2026 summer period formally concludes, the data gathered from the 17,000 inspections will directly inform future regulatory strategies, helping the HRSD continuously refine its monitoring techniques. The successful execution of the ban reinforces the essential message that while the nation continues its rapid infrastructural development, the health of the people building it remains completely paramount. Through continuous vigilance, the Kingdom is setting a regional benchmark for occupational safety.

Middle East

Details: Middle East

Topic: HSE
Region: Middle East
Date: 28th September 2026
Year: 2026

The global maritime transport industry serves as the backbone of international trade, connecting economies across the world's oceans.

Recognising the critical importance of this sector, Saudi Arabia has taken significant strides to position itself as a progressive leader in maritime logistics. On September 24, 2026, against the coastal backdrop of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia celebrated World Maritime Day. Represented by the Transport General Authority (TGA) alongside various partner entities, the Kingdom used the occasion to highlight the continued development of its maritime sector and its active role in advancing the global maritime transport industry.

Navigating the future of maritime transport

World Maritime Day traditionally serves as an occasion to reflect on shipping safety, maritime security, and the marine environment. For Saudi Arabia, it also provides a platform to showcase its transformative approach to maritime infrastructure and human capital. The continued development of Saudi Arabia's maritime sector is part of a broader strategy to modernise the nation's economic capabilities while supporting international supply chains.

The Transport General Authority plays a pivotal role in this ongoing transformation. As the primary regulatory body for transport in the Kingdom, the TGA ensures that the maritime sector adheres to the highest international standards. Crucially, the TGA does not operate alone. The active involvement of partner entities underscores a highly collaborative ecosystem. This multi-stakeholder approach ensures that the industry's growth is both sustainable and comprehensively supported across all levels of operation.

A strategic shift: championing women in maritime

Perhaps the most notable aspect of Saudi Arabia’s current maritime narrative is its deliberate focus on workforce diversity. Historically, the global maritime industry has been heavily male-dominated, with women often underrepresented in technical and operational roles. However, Saudi Arabia is actively working to shift this paradigm. The Kingdom has "continued to support women's participation in the maritime sector through training and qualification programs," signalling a modern and inclusive approach to professional development.

This support extends beyond mere policy statements; it is firmly rooted in actionable educational initiatives. The Transport General Authority and its partners are dedicated to equipping female professionals with the essential skills required to thrive. This is primarily achieved through rigorous training and qualification programmes designed to bridge the gender gap and elevate the overall competency of the workforce.

Key initiatives and milestones

To understand the practical impact of these inclusivity efforts, it is helpful to look at the structural changes characterising the sector's development:

Targeted Skill Development: Saudi Arabia is offering specialised maritime courses that provide comprehensive knowledge, ensuring that professionals meet stringent global standards.
Measurable Progress: During the first quarter of 2025, the sector saw "20 female trainees participating in specialized maritime courses," marking a tangible step forward.
Long-term Qualification: The focus on formal qualification programmes guarantees that trainees receive recognised credentials, empowering them to pursue high-level industry careers.
Collaborative Ecosystem: By working closely with partner entities, the TGA ensures that training programmes are aligned with actual industry demands.

Setting a new industry standard

The participation of female trainees in early 2025 is a foundational achievement. It demonstrates that the Kingdom is systematically building a robust pipeline of female talent ready to take on critical roles within the maritime sphere. By providing these specialised courses, Saudi Arabia is not only empowering its citizens but also expanding its available talent pool, which is essential for the continued development of its maritime sector.

As Saudi Arabia advances the global maritime transport industry, its strategy is twofold: enhancing logistical capabilities while simultaneously modernising its workforce. The celebrations in Jeddah for World Maritime Day highlight a nation boldly charting a progressive course for the future. Through the steadfast efforts of the TGA and the implementation of inclusive training programmes, the Kingdom is proving that maritime excellence relies just as much on human capital and diversity as it does on infrastructure.

Middle East

Details: Louise Waters; Middle East

Date: 28th September 2026

EMSTEEL Group has won five awards at the Gulf Sustainability Awards 2026, including four Gold Awards and one Bronze Award

The awards were announced during the Gulf Sustainability Awards 2026 ceremony in Dubai, which celebrates outstanding sustainability initiatives and practices across the Middle East. The awards span 21 categories covering key areas, including environmental impact, social impact, governance and professional excellence, with entries assessed by a specialised judging panel.

EMSTEEL received the awards for its achievements in sustainable products, the circular economy, environmental, social and governance (ESG) reporting, environmental sustainability, and innovation in sustainable technologies.

Together, these achievements reflect the Group’s integrated approach to sustainability, encompassing the development of lower-carbon products and solutions, improved resource efficiency, and increased recycling and utilisation of industrial by-products.

EMSTEEL stresses that environmental stewardship is a core value embedded in every aspect of its operations. It emphasises environmental responsibility through rigorous internal and external audits, and all its operational sites are Environmental Management Systems (ISO 14001) certified. The company is committed to compliance with environmental laws and regulations; continuous improvement in environmental and resource management; and continuous reductions of GHG emissions through innovation and adopting the best available techniques such as CCUS and green hydrogen.

One of the EMSTEEL has established a Metals Recovery and Slag Processing facility to enhance environmental management by processing slag and recovering scrap metal. This facility contributes significantly to recycling efforts and the circular economy, improving operational efficiency and reducing environmental impacts.

EMSTEEL also employs a comprehensive waste management system that prioritises waste minimisation and recycling. This system includes effective waste segregation, handling various waste types, and implementing strategies to enhance recycling processes.

Middle East

Details: shivani dhruv; Middle East

Topic: HSE
Region: Middle East
Date: 24th September 2026
Year: 2026

Dubai Police has reached 120 workers through its 'Sun Protection' initiative, providing practical guidance and support on preventing heat stress and health risks linked to direct sun exposure.

The initiative was organised by the General Department of Correctional and Punitive Institutions in cooperation with the Positive Spirit Council. It forms part of Dubai Police’s efforts to promote workplace quality of life, raise awareness of occupational health and safety, and encourage preventive practices during periods of high temperatures.

Raising awareness of heat-related risks

Colonel Hamad Rashid Al Marri, Deputy Director of the General Department of Correctional and Punitive Institutions, said the initiative reflects Dubai Police’s humanitarian approach and its commitment to translating social responsibility into practical initiatives for different sections of the community.

He highlighted the importance of protecting workers’ health and safety as part of maintaining a safe and supportive working environment.

“The initiative aims to increase awareness of proper preventive practices and enable workers to take the necessary steps to protect themselves from heat stress and direct exposure to sunlight, particularly during periods of high temperatures,” Colonel Al Marri said.

He added that awareness should be accompanied by practical measures that workers can apply in their everyday working environments, making prevention a shared responsibility.

Turning heat protection into daily practices

Fatima Bohjair, Chairperson of the Positive Spirit Council and Head of the Cultural Diversity Section at the General Department of Community Happiness, said the initiative forms part of a wider programme of community activities delivered by the Council in cooperation with general departments, police stations and partners.

She said the Council aims to reach different sections of society with practical and accessible awareness messages that reflect the nature of their work and specific needs.

According to Bohjair, protecting workers from sun exposure requires more than awareness alone. Preventive measures should become sustainable daily practices that support workers’ health, safety and quality of life.

Hydration and protection during outdoor work

As part of the initiative, workers attended workshops and awareness sessions covering the health risks associated with prolonged and direct exposure to heat.

Workers were advised to minimise prolonged exposure to the sun where possible, take appropriate rest periods, maintain hydration by consuming sufficient water and fluids, and use suitable protective measures while performing outdoor duties.

The initiative concluded with the distribution of umbrellas and hydration supplies to workers, combining awareness activities with practical support and reinforcing the importance of prevention and workplace safety.

Middle East

Details: madhurima sengupta; Middle East

Topic: Fire Safety
Date: 22nd September 2026

Bahrain companies are gaining international recognition for their workplace safety commitments as the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) awarded them Life Presidential Awards

Adding to the Gulf Cooperation Council's repute for employee welbeing Aluminium Bahrain (Alba), BAPCO Gas, BAPCO Refining, and Gulf Petrochemical Industries Co. (GPIC) received the awards.

The recepients were graced with the awards from RoSPA’s life president, Lord Jordan of Bournville, who acknowledged their pioneering role in advancing workers' safety.

He said, “The dedication and commitment of these companies to health and safety are truly commendable. Their efforts not only safeguard their employees but also set a high standard for others to aspire to.

“By prioritising safety and fostering inclusive environments, they are paving the way for a future where every workplace is a model of excellence and care.”

Aluminium smelter, Alba, works with advanced risk management strategies, workforce training, and safety audits that drive the seamless production of more than 1.6mn metric tonnes every year.

Integral to Bahrain’s oil and gas industry, safety measures drive operations at BAPCO Gas and BAPCO Refining in their expansion journey. The award felicitated the high safety standards for workers' protection behind the success of BAPCO Refining's Bapco Modernisation Programme.

Meanwhile, GPIC, Bahrain’s primary petrochemical company, was acknowledged for its long-standing focus on handling hazardous chemicals safely that falls in line with strict compliance of health and safety protocols. Their technology are designed to ensure safety and emergency preparedness when dealing on a daily basis the production of ammonia, urea, and methanol.

The awards were announced during the 15th Professional Development Conference & Exhibition, hosted by the American Society of Safety Professionals – Middle East Chapter (ASSP-MEC) at the Gulf Hotel, Bahrain. Experts in occupational health and safety attended the event which was themed ‘Building a Safer Future Together’.

Europe

Details: madhurima sengupta; Europe

Topic: Industrial
Date: 22nd September 2026

Oil and gas contractors and industrial field teams will be able to seamlessly sync with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration's recordkeeping workflows, thanks to a new mobile-first platform launched by safety documentation software provider, BasinCheck

The platform ensures custom made templates for audits, job safety analyses and inspections, along with OSHA 300 and 300A log generation from manager-confirmed incident records. There is photo documentation, PDF export capabilities and a full audit trail with timestamps and user attribution.

Users will no longer have to depend on paper checklists and spreadsheet-based tracking as digital audits, corrective action management, and incident documentation can be accessed with just a tap.

Safety inspections can be completed on phones, and the crew can determine the next move for failed checklist items from automatically generated solutions. A centralised dashboard helps safety managers to easily track the stages of progress, and hold accountable the person involved in ensuring work delivery. The system can function offline as well in case its a remote site with no cellular service.

"I started BasinCheck because small and mid-size contractors needed serious safety documentation tools, but everything available was either built for enterprise or was just glorified spreadsheet software," said Jacob Szyszka, founder and CEO of BasinCheck.

Europe

Details: madhurima sengupta; Europe

Topic: PPE
Date: 22nd September 2026

Following open calls from the International Safety Equipment Association (ISEA) for public review on safety apparel, there has been a shift from basic vests to fluorescent, reflective safety vests

These high-visibility shirts, jackets, sweatshirts, rainwear, pants and similar garments are advanced enough to withstand diverse job situations and environment. Manufacturers are leveraging technologies to address heat stress, PPE fit and multiple hazards as innovations keep hitting the industry every other day.

The latest revisions under ANSI/ISEA 107-2020 comprises updated testing protocols, new sizing requirements while particularly focussing on improvement of nighttime visibility. While visibility is a factor to be considered, it cannot come at the cost of heat dissipation impairment. A heat monitoring device such as wet bulb globe temperature, or WBGT to assess heat exposure can rightly address this issue. A worker can determine the clothing based on an effective WBGT score. Thus an ideal PPE should take into account both heat stress and visibility factors.

The conventional mesh vest has now expanded to suit work-specific visibility situations. Based on ANSI/ISEA 107-20 accreditations, there are three performance classes covering major apparels and Class E bottoms that primarily consider worker hazards and tasks, background complexity, and vehicular traffic and speed. The standard also establishes garment Types based on expected use settings.

Garment selection should depend on the particulars of the hazards a worker is exposed to. That determines the extent of visibility required while also keeping in mind the heat.

Middle East

Details: Louise Waters; Middle East

Topic: HSE
Region: Middle East
Date: 21st September 2026
Year: 2026

Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah Financial District Development and Management Company (KAFD DMC) and the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health (NCOSH), have signed an agreement to enhance cooperation in occupational health and safety

This will see the two organisations share expertise and best practices to advance occupational safety and health across workplaces and facilities while raising awareness of the importance of adhering to the highest health and safety standards to promote community well-being. It will also enable both parties to explore joint training and technology initiatives and enable the establishment and strengthening of partnerships with other entities to support the Kingdom's occupational safety objectives.

KAFD, a major mixed use financial district, is home to over 140 companies and hosts more than 20,000 professionals across several vital economic sectors, with an average weekly footfall of 30,000, highlighting the scale and importance of a robust health and safety framework within the district. Through its dedicated Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) department, KAFD upholds world-class standards in health and safety with a range of initiatives embedded across its operations.

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to improving the lifestyle and livability for residents, tenants and visitors in line with Saudi Vision 2030 and supports Riyadh’s broader transformation into a global city.

KAFD DMC chief corporate officer Sultan AlShahrani, said, “At KAFD, we view safety not as a compliance requirement but as a fundamental investment. Earlier this year, we achieved 41 million safe man-hours, which is a testament to our district's commitment to health and safety. We look forward to working with NCOSH to continue learning and finding opportunities to develop and enhance our health and safety framework and contribute to the advancement of best practices across the Kingdom.”

Eng. Majed Al-Fuwaiz, the general secretary of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, said, “This MoU marks an important step in strengthening collaboration with leading national entities to advance occupational safety and health across workplaces. Through our partnership with KAFD, we aim to contribute to capability development, technology adoption, a proactive safety culture, and enhanced workplace readiness to manage risks efficiently and effectively.

“This collaboration will also support the development of practical, scalable approaches that can deliver lasting impact, contributing to the Kingdom’s ambitions for safer, more sustainable workplaces and advancing occupational safety and health as a key enabler of quality of life and sustainable development.”

NCOSH has as its mission to build a leading national occupational safety and health ecosystem by developing regulations and legislation, enhancing capabilities and resources, raising awareness among target groups, and strengthening oversight and compliance, contributing to the creation of a vibrant society that provides a healthy and safe life for all. The Council seeks to achieve integration with relevant authorities at the national level, to adopt the best international practices in the field of occupational safety and health, in line with the needs and requirements of the Saudi labour market, and ensure the protection, safety and health of workers.

North America

Details: Louise Waters; North America

Date: 18th September 2026

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and its partners presented the 2026 Prevention through Design (PtD) Award to Square Robot, Inc. at the sixth annual PtD Award Ceremony during the National Safety Council Safety Congress and Expo in Indianapolis

What is Prevention through Design?

Led by NIOSH, Prevention through Design is a national strategy for preventing and controlling occupational injuries, illnesses and fatalities by “designing out” hazards and risks. According to the hierarchy of controls, the elimination of workplace hazards is the most effective way to protect workers. PtD encompasses all of the efforts to anticipate and design out hazards to workers in facilities, work methods and operations, processes, equipment, tools, products, new technologies, and the organisation of work. The ultimate goal of the PtD initiative is to prevent or reduce occupational injuries, illnesses, and fatalities through the inclusion of prevention considerations into all designs that impact workers, thus promoting a proactive approach.

The annual PtD Award a collaborative effort of NIOSH, the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA), the American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) and the National Safety Council (NSC) that highlights real-world success in PtD efforts to protect workers. Through this award, partners recognise leaders and encourage further use of PtD methods.

Award winner Square Robot, a Massachusetts-based company that specialises in robotic tank inspection services, was awarded for its excellence in eliminating hazards through innovative safety design that exemplifies the PtD approach. Its fully submersible autonomous robots mitigate confined space hazards by eliminating the need for workers to enter above-ground tanks that store industrial liquids tanks for inspection. Emissions hazards are also reduced as the tanks remain sealed, removing the need for ventilation and atmospheric monitoring. Across 385 tanks inspected, Square Robot has helped contain more than 695 tons of volatile organic compound emissions and reduced confined space entries to zero. It combines advanced robotics, high-resolution sensors, and intelligent automation to deliver internal tank inspections that are safer, faster, and more accurate.

“With their innovative spirit and dogged commitment to eliminating confined space hazards, Square Robot has demonstrated remarkable achievement in improving the safety and wellbeing of many workers,” said Lorraine Martin, NSC CEO. “Their work exemplifies the impact that designing systems safely from the start can have on preventing injuries and fatalities. The National Safety Council applauds Square Robot for helping lead us into a future where every employee returns home safe from every shift.”

The use of drones and robotics for inspections is becoming increasingly widespread. In the oil and gas industry for example, they are used for inspecting tanks, flare stacks, confined spaces and other hard to access assets, thereby eliminating the risk to personnel, as well as saving time and costs compared to traditional inspections. Equipped with LiDAR, various sensors, thermal cameras, and high-resolution imaging, drones and robots today can provide accurate and detailed real-time data, precisely pinpointing any threats to asset integrity. Capabilities continue to advance with technology advancements, with the integration of AI and data analytics facilitating real-time data processing and analysis.

North America

Details: shivani dhruv; North America

Topic: Industrial
Region: North America
Date: 14th September 2026
Year: 2026

Materials science company Arclin showcased its latest personal protection solutions at the National Safety Council (NSC) Safety Congress & Expo 2026, held from 14-16 September at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis

At booth #4103, the company presented personal protection technologies incorporating Nomex and Kevlar, highlighting solutions designed to address workplace exposure to heat, flame, arc flash and cut hazards.

Arclin’s participation marked its return to the NSC event and provided an opportunity to highlight developments across its Nomex and Kevlar portfolios. The company said the brands build on nearly 60 years of experience in personal protection, with solutions focused on protection and durability for workers and manufacturers.

"Protecting people in demanding environments requires us to continually look for ways to improve how materials perform when workers need them most," said Trey Roy, Arclin's North American Market Leader for Personal Protection.

"Nomex and Kevlar have protected workers for generations, and at Arclin, we're building on that foundation with new technologies designed to address the evolving needs of today's workforce. Returning to NSC is an opportunity to connect with the safety community and demonstrate how we're continuing to advance personal protection."

Among the solutions showcased was Nomex Xtreme Arc (NXA), a next-generation flame-resistant fabric designed for utility and electrical applications. The material is designed to help protect workers against arc flash and flash fire hazards.

Arclin also highlighted ArmorCell technology, which forms insulating air pockets when exposed to heat. According to the company, the technology helps slow heat transfer and reduce burn severity.

The company’s Nomex personal protection portfolio includes materials designed to help protect against heat, flame and arc flash across demanding industrial environments. Its Kevlar solutions use high-performance fibre technology in protective equipment and apparel to address cut and other workplace hazards while supporting durable protection.

During the Expo, Arclin’s team discussed its personal protection portfolio, developments in flame-resistant and cut protection, evolving workplace safety requirements and applications across utilities, manufacturing, construction, aerospace and petrochemical operations.

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