Regional Coverage
Regional Coverage
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Middle East
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 6 February, 2025
- Year: 2025
One factor highlighted by health and safety practitioners in Saudi Arabia is the need for training and upskilling in all areas, both for the workforce and for HSE professionals themselves
Training needs range from the basics of HSE and proper use of PPE, to competency-based training and training in new technologies, and call for diverse methods, from practical on-the-job training to immersive digital learning. With calls for leaders to ‘walk the talk’ and employ good communication strategies, there is also a need for leadership and psychological training. Furthermore, the Saudisation of the HSE profession and government plans to recruit several thousand more HSE officers by 2025, will require an expansion of training and certification programmes.
With workforce development and enhancing local capabilities at the heart of Vision 2030 and Saudi nationalisation objectives, there is scope for further investment in private-public partnerships, customised training programmes tailored to the specific needs of industries and businesses, and partnerships with international training providers and institutions.
Collaborations to upskill local talent
One recently announced initiative is a collaboration between Serco and SaveFast Training Academy, one of the region’s leading HSE training providers, which aims to enhance safety and upskill local talent in Saudi Arabia using SaveFast’s HSE, driving training and technology solutions. These incorporate the use of virtual reality technology, behaviour-based telematics and HSE technologies.
The collaboration addresses the requirements of the Saudi government to develop local capabilities in line with Vision 2030 and Saudi nationalisation goals, with Saudi nationals having the opportunity to gain safety qualifications through SaveFast Training Academy before continuing learning in a real-work environment with Serco. SaveFast and Serco will enhance the services they provide to current and future clients in the UAE and KSA through the HSE Training Academy, on-site tailored training courses and robust analysis of safety data. This initiative will provide insights and data essential for predicting and preventing workplace incidents, whether in office environments or on construction sites across cities, major developments or giga projects.
Meanwhile, GTSC, part of 3T, a leader in the provision of safety-critical training for high-hazard industries, is expanding its accredited training offering. This follows 3t’s recent acquisition of GTSC, acquiring its three training centres located in Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi and Egypt. This strategic combination leverages GTSC’s comprehensive, industry-accredited training capabilities with 3t’s cutting-edge training technologies, including immersive digital learning platforms, virtual reality simulations, and advanced safety compliance solutions. The expanded training offering will include an enhanced range of courses for workers in high-hazard industries, such as a Hydrogen Sulfide (H₂S) Safety Training program accredited by the International Association of Drilling Contractors (IADC), designed to ensure that workers in industries such as oil and gas, drilling, and offshore operations are properly trained and equipped to safely handle the risks associated with H₂S exposure.
The company is committed to supporting national visions, including Saudi Vision 2030, by upskilling the workforce and enhancing productivity, ensuring that personnel in safety-critical roles achieve the highest standards of safety, compliance and competence.
The e-learning sector in Saudi Arabia is also booming, driven by government support, the rising demand for flexible learning, the growing penetration of the internet and smartphones, significant technological advancements, and the rising focus on skills development and incentives for digital education, according to a recent report. Saudi companies across various sectors have implemented e-learning programmes, covering areas ranging from compliance and safety training to leadership development and technical skills enhancement. These programmes can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each organisation. The ability to track and assess employee progress and performance through e-learning platforms is an additional attraction.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- North America
- Date: 6 February, 2025
- Year: 2025
As health, safety, and environmental (HSE) considerations take centre stage in the energy sector, companies are adopting cutting-edge technologies and best practices to enhance workplace safety, reduce environmental impact, and improve operational efficiency.
In North America, a few companies have begun focusing on technology to safeguard HSE practices and enhance safety measures.
BP, for example, has integrated advanced monitoring systems and automated safety technologies across its operations. The Thunder Horse South Expansion Phase 2 project, launched in September 2021, achieved over a million hours worked without a safety incident. In response to the Deepwater Horizon disaster, BP also launched a large-scale training programme, training more than 100,000 workers.
On the other hand, Shell has implemented strict zero-discharge policies to prevent hazardous waste from entering marine ecosystems. Additionally, its waste management initiatives focus on sustainable disposal methods. Shell regularly engages stakeholders through workshops to discuss safety and environmental concerns.
Chevron employs real-time monitoring systems to track drilling parameters and well integrity, improving safety across its operations. The company conducts Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA) processes and third-party audits to mitigate risks. As a result, Chevron has seen measurable improvements in safety metrics, including reductions in recordable injuries and lost workdays.
Transocean focuses on workforce preparedness through regular safety drills and emergency simulations. The company also leverages advanced monitoring technologies to maintain high safety standards across offshore operations.
Leveraging technology for safety
Sonar technology plays a crucial role in offshore risk management, providing real-time data for environmental monitoring and structural integrity assessments. BP, for example, uses sonar to detect leaks in underwater pipelines and track marine wildlife, minimising environmental impact. Chevron similarly employs sonar to identify gas leaks and prevent structural failures.
Sampling technology, such as Real-time Sampling While Drilling (SWD), enables companies to collect geological data continuously during drilling. This technology enhances safety by providing insights into subsurface conditions, reducing the risk of blowouts. Oceaneering, a Texas-based firm, deploys remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) equipped with sampling tools in the Gulf of Mexico, allowing for detailed underwater inspections without human divers.
With the gradual introduction of carbon capture and storage (CCS) regulations, energy companies are being pushed to reduce emissions and align with global climate targets. Implementing CCS technology not only helps firms meet regulatory requirements but also enhances their reputation for sustainability and corporate social responsibility. While initial investment costs are high, long-term benefits include avoiding emissions penalties, improving regulatory standing, and driving innovation in environmental performance.
By prioritising HSE measures and integrating cutting-edge technologies, companies are not only ensuring worker safety and environmental protection but also positioning themselves for long-term operational success.
- Details
- Matthew Hayhoe
- North America
- Region: North America
- Date: 5 February, 2025
- Year: 2025
The energy tech provider has signed an MoU extending its long-standing partnership with Microsoft, specifically focusing on the innovation and integration of its Cordant suite of solutions.
Cordant and Microsoft Azure will be jointly developed to deepen the potential and widen the integration of both solutions. Cordant solutions will be rooted in the Azure AI Foundry to optimise energy operations, improve predictive maintenance models, enhance safety, foster greater energy efficiency, and push the industry and technological potential forward.
Aravind Yarlagadda, Baker Hughes' senior VP of Industrial Solutions, Industrial & Energy Technology, said the MoU will "drive operational excellence and support customers in driving value at scale from their digital investments."
Microsoft's corporate VP of Energy and Resources Industry, Darry Willis, promised "greater operational performance, energy efficiency, and growth through AI-powered digital solutions" as a result of the partnership.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Middle East
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 4 February, 2025
- Year: 2025
Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), the entity responsible for managing Bahrain International Airport (BIA), has introduced its 2025 runway maintenance plan, aimed at enhancing safety, efficiency, and sustainability in airport operations.
To mark the launch, a site visit was held with Gulf Air Group (GFG) chairman Khalid Hussain Taqi and BAC chief executive officer Mohamed Yousif AlBinfalah, alongside key members of BAC’s management team.
The company is working closely with the Bahrain Civil Aviation Authority to ensure full compliance with international aviation safety standards and regulatory requirements.
The first phase of the 2025 maintenance plan will focus on essential runway upkeep, including rubber removal, friction testing, asphalt patching, and remarking.
Increasing safety
Additional work will involve shoulder repairs, strip grading, joint sealant application, and upgrades to Airfield Ground Lighting (AGL), including LED replacements and photometric testing. Manhole dewatering will also be carried out to maintain optimal drainage conditions.
Survey operations will take place at two runway locations, while the Ministry of Works’ Rayya Road expansion project will oversee the replacement of Runway 12L approach lights with energy-efficient LEDs.
This maintenance initiative reflects BAC’s ongoing investment in Bahrain International Airport’s infrastructure, ensuring enhanced safety, efficiency, and world-class service for both passengers and airlines.
Bahrain Airport Company's acting vice president of facility management Eyad Ismaeel said, "This comprehensive runway maintenance plan shows BAC’s commitment to maintaining the highest levels of safety and efficiency at BIA throughout 2025. By adhering to international aviation safety and operational standards, we are not only enhancing BIA’s regional standing but also ensuring a seamless and secure travel experience for all passengers."
- Details
- Matthew Hayhoe
- Middle East
- Date: 3 February, 2025
- Year: 2025
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) has recognised Aluminium Bahrain B.S.C. (Alba) with the Life President Award
Alba's chief executive officer, Ali Al Baqali, was presented the award by RoSPA's life president, Lord Jordan of Bournville.
Recognising Alba's rigid safety standards, which have seen it recently surpass 30 million safe working hours with no lost time injuries (LTIs) and an 87.5% reduction in workplace injuries, Lord Jordan said, "Only exceptional leadership, hard work and inspiration could achieve such a remarkable outcome, and the inspiration comes from Alba’s CEO, Ali Al Baqali."
Al Baqali added, "We are not just building a safer workplace; we are building a culture of safety that prioritises the well-being of our people."
Alba was among a roster of other winners of this year's Life President Awards.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Middle East
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 31 January, 2025
- Year: 2025
Red Sea Global (RSG), the developer of regenerative tourism destinations The Red Sea and AMAALA, has announced the opening of its first Health & Safety Training Academy, following a pilot phase involving the training of 1,000 workers
Located at AMAALA, the academy offers free training for RSG’s workforce, partners and contractors, supporting the development of essential construction skills and safety capabilities. RSG’s comprehensive training portfolio adheres to the highest international safety standards, with certification from international organisations such as Highfield, IOSH, and NEBOSH.
"As our first dedicated training centre, the AMAALA Health & Safety Training Academy is designed to empower our partners and contractors with enhanced construction and safety practices. By ensuring exemplary safety protocols across all RSG’s developments, the academy aims to become the benchmark institution for health & safety training for Saudi Arabia and beyond," said John Dunne, group head of health & safety at RSG.
Equipped with modern indoor classrooms, outdoor training stations, and specialised safety areas, the facility enables trainees to build critical safety competencies through a mix of theoretical and hands-on training. Practical equipment such as scaffolding, walking work platforms, gantry cranes, confined space chambers and CPR training facilities enables trainees to develop critical safety skills, fostering a robust culture of safety, while the use of simulations to demonstrate the real consequences of safety violations enables trainees to be exposed to hazardous situations in a safe environment.
With multinational workforces often posing challenges for safety managers given language barriers and variations in safety standards, RSG has also obtained an official license to deliver IOSH Working Safety Training in both English and Hindi. This one-day course is specifically designed for workers or anyone who needs a grounding in the essentials of health & safety.
"As an approved partner and licensed provider of the IOSH Working Safely course in both English and Hindi, we are equipping our workforce and partners with vital safety skills that transcend language barriers. This partnership with IOSH reflects our dedication to fostering a safe and inclusive work environment across all our projects," added Dunne.
Last year Red Sea Global recorded 10 million hours worked without a Lost Time Injury (LTI) on Shura Island, which completes this year, and 11 million hours worked without an LTI on Shebara Resort, which opened in October 2024.
- Details
- Matthew Hayhoe
- Europe
- Region: Europe
- Date: 31 January, 2025
- Year: 2025
Great Britain's health and safety regulator is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2025.
The Health and Safety Executive was the result of the 1974 Health and Safety at Work etc Act., which came into effect in the UK from January 1st, 1975.
1974, before the HSE was established, 651 Brits were killed in workplace incidents. Figures from 2023/24 show that the figure has fallen to 138.
The Health and Safety Executive's chief executive, Sarah Albon, said the executive "has led the way in establishing Great Britain as a safe place to work," noting that "there is still much for HSE to take on... as we look ahead to the next 50 years."
Sir Stephen Timms, the Minister for Social Security and Disability, added, "Over the last half-century this organisation has been at the heart of efforts to protect people and places across Britain: I would like to thank them for this vital work.
"As we support more people to get into work through our Get Britain Working White paper, and as we move to strengthen protection for workers, their mission will be as important as ever – now and long into the future."
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Middle East
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 29 January, 2025
- Year: 2025
The integration of AI and automation is significantly advancing HSE standards across the Middle East's construction sector. These technologies are enhancing risk management, improving safety, and optimising construction processes. Companies are eager to implement cutting-edge solutions, which is contributing to better HSE outcomes across the region.
ALEC, a leading construction company in the UAE, has embraced autonomous robots for tasks like site inspections and 3D scanning.
Equipped with AI, these robots navigate construction sites, capture high-quality images, and generate 3D models. This innovation not only improves the precision of site assessments but also boosts safety by identifying potential hazards before they cause harm. Certain AI systems, for instance, can prioritise issues based on risk scores, enabling managers to focus on the most critical threats.
Additionally, Trimble Constructible’s AI assists in project planning by using robots to capture 3D scans and feed the data into neural networks, helping to optimise schedules and address issues before they escalate.
In Qatar, Qatari Diar is leveraging AI to assess and manage risks on their construction projects. AI systems process data from multiple sources, including weather forecasts and equipment usage patterns, to predict and mitigate risks. This enables project managers to focus on high-risk areas, ensuring that resources and safety measures are allocated effectively.
Enhancing HSE measures during floods
The severe rainfall in April last year caused widespread flooding, construction delays, and infrastructure damage, highlighting weaknesses in existing HSE practices and prompting immediate action from developers.
DAMAC Properties responded by investing in advanced drainage solutions to mitigate future flooding risks. The company deployed tankers to remove floodwaters and maintained open communication with residents to address concerns quickly. To ensure worker safety and minimise disruptions, DAMAC promptly responded to meteorological alerts and coordinated efforts with local authorities. Following the storms, teams were deployed to clear floodwaters, remove sand and debris, and restore landscaping.
The floods in Dubai served as a pivotal reminder for the construction industry. By adopting enhanced HSE measures, developers are not only protecting their projects and workforce but also contributing to a more resilient and sustainable construction environment.
The above is an extra from Offshore Network’s MENA Health, Safety & Environment Report 2024.
- Details
- Matthew Hayhoe
- Middle East
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 28 January, 2025
- Year: 2025
HSE regulators and experts may suggest that comprehensive HSE strategies and regulation is critical regardless of region or breadth of operation. It is doubtless, however, that Saudi Arabia's political, business and societal landscape pose unique challenges that deserve due consideration by operators in the region.
A unique climate posing unique challenges
One might not expect a global superpower in the industrial and tourism spheres to emerge from the harsh desert environment of Saudi Arabia. The fact that one has, however, has earned it widespread criticism around worker safety, perhaps with little surprise given its extreme heat, sandstorms and dehydration risk.
Heat stress management and hydration/temperature policies demand rigorous implementation and monitoring to assuage some of that criticism and limit heat-related incidents.
Rising to the challenge of oil & gas reliance
Saudi Arabia's historic reliance on the oil & gas industry carries risk. The industry has unfortunately been ridden with high-profile incidents of compromised safety and, given the international standards of operation, neglecting or breaching policy jeopardises not only safety but reputation and project feasibility.
Staying one step ahead of shifting regulation
While KSA has made significant strides in HSE regulations, compliance remains an ongoing challenge due to rapidly-changing standards. Saudi Vision 2030 initiative aims to improve workplace safety and environmental sustainability, but carries with it near-constant shifting policies. Companies must stay updated with new regulations and ensure proper implementation.
Overcoming language barriers
Saudi Arabia's multinational workforce means language and communication barriers can hinder the efficacy of HSE training. Ensuring that safety regulations are both understood and carried out across various languages and cultures is essential for accident prevention.
- Details
- Leah Kelly
- North America
- Region: North America
- Date: 28 January, 2025
- Year: 2025
Industry leaders operating in the offshore oil and gas space in the Gulf of Mexico must contend with a number of key challenges to maximise HSE performance, some of these emanate from the nature of the industry, others to the unique character of the North American regulatory environment
Some of the key principle challenges include:
- High risk nature of industry: Employees working within the offshore oil and gas industry can be exposed to a range of dangers including unsafe substances, noise, vibration, radiations, extreme temperatures, and ergonomic hazards. Historically, oil and gas extraction workers in the US face elevated fatal occupational injury rates seven-times higher than all other US workers, according to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, although fatality rates have been dropping –especially offshore in the wake of the Deepwater Horizon reaction.
- Evolving regulations: The legislative reaction to the Deepwater Horizon disaster brought in a wave of procedures, rules and regulations to tighten up offshore operations with the aim of preventing incidents that could cause harm to workers and the environment. In recent years these have been pulled either way by different administrations and appear constantly under scrutiny. Those regulations for meeting HSE obligations have expressed it can be difficult to keep up and ensure the entire workforce it aligned when the rules are consistently shifting. It can also require significant investment in technology and practices to ensure compliance with new standards.
- Getting workers on board: HSE strategies can only be effective if employees are fully engaged and participate in the delivery of a safety culture. “Safety culture is an integral component of any high-risk industry, and its significance for oil rig operations cannot be overstated,” as stated in a report by Lyons & Simmons around oil rig safety in the US. “It encompasses the attitudes, beliefs, perceptions, and values that employees share in relation to safety within an organisation […] by prioritising safety in every decision and operation, companies can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents and create a safer workforce for all employees.” Without workers buying into compliant programmes – and incorporating it into every action they take – a successful safety culture cannot be achieved.
- Covid hangover: The global pandemic had a profound effect on the offshore oil and gas industry, particularly in regards to the workforce with a high turnover leading to skills shortages. In regards to HSE, the persisting problem is translating into a lack of experience within the field, with leaders suggesting it can be challenging to get new recruits to recognise the importance of practicing safe working at all times, especially with experienced staff no longer around to provide guidance. The high number of short-term contractor staff also feeds in here; it can be challenging to get them aligned with operator standards.
- Ageing assets: SLB data shows that productive fields and reservoirs around the world are maturing with more than two-thirds of wells expected to be over 10 years old by 2030. This challenge is all too familiar in the Gulf of Mexico which is one of the world’s oldest offshore oil producing regions. Older assets and equipment typically pose a greater incident risk due to factors such as deterioration, lack of familiarity, difficulty obtaining repair parts and losses of critical information. As one of the biggest sources of offshore incidents, ageing assets is a leading cause of HSE breaches and is therefore identified as a primary concern for industry leaders.
The above is an extra from Offshore Network’s Gulf of Mexico: Health, Safety & Environment Report 2024 which can be downloaded here.
- Details
- Madhuri Ramesh
- Europe
- Region: Europe
- Date: 27 January, 2025
- Year: 2025
The European Alliance for Apprenticeships (EAfA) recently released its 2025 action plan aimed at fostering quality apprenticeships in the EU and beyond
The 2025 action plan reflects EAfA’s unwavering commitment to empowering apprenticeships as a foundation for Europe’s workforce strategy. With a key emphasis on innovation and cooperation, members of the EAfA continue to share presentations, infographics and factsheets, in an attempt to promote apprenticeships and the work of EAfA. Meanwhile, targeted outreach campaigns will focus on expanding the membership in underrepresented key economic sectors experiencing shortages, such as agriculture, construction, and hospitality.
Networking will take centre stage in 2025, with high-profile events designed to connect stakeholders and inspire action. The annual high-level conference in Brussels will delve into apprenticeships' role in achieving the EU’s Clean Industrial Deal, addressing themes like labour mobility, skill recognition, and cross-border collaboration.
Complementing this, the EAfA Get-Together and the European Apprentices Network (EAN) meetings will facilitate dialogue among members and amplify apprentices’ voices, with the 10th annual seminar scheduled to be held later this year.
To support its members, new tools and learning materials will be introduced in 2025 highlighing on apprenticeships for adults and factsheets equipping trainers with appropriate skills and competencies, developing basic skills, and expanding higher-level apprenticeships. A couple of webinars will also tackle such as improving working conditions and addressing gender stereotypes in apprenticeships.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Europe
- Region: Europe
- Date: 24 January, 2025
- Year: 2025
Chris Floyd, Evri’s transport and safety lead, has been named chair of RoSPA’s National Road Safety Committee (NRSC), bringing two decades of professional and personal dedication to road safety.
With a career that began as an HGV driver and evolved into leadership roles in transport management and safety advocacy, Floyd’s journey has been shaped by his understanding of the personal and economic impacts of road incidents.
Data-driven approach
As Chair, Floyd aims to strike a balance between leveraging data and recognising the human stories behind road safety statistics. He emphasises that each incident represents a life, a family, and a community affected, underscoring the need to combine analytical insights with compassion.
Floyd’s contributions to the road safety community include chairing the Institute of Couriers’ Road Safety & Wellbeing group and delivering the Bridget Driscoll Memorial Lecture at the University of West London.
His involvement with organisations such as RoSPA, ScORSA, and National Highways highlights his commitment to advancing safety standards across the sector.
Reflecting on his vision for the NRSC, Floyd aspires to build on the committee’s legacy by advocating for practical, sustainable solutions that influence decision-makers locally, nationally, and internationally. He hopes to continue fostering collaboration and driving actionable change to make roads safer for everyone.