Regional Coverage
Regional Coverage
- Details
- Matthew Hayhoe
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 3 September 2025
- Year: 2025
Reports have confirmed that the Saudi Water Partnership Company's Al-Rayes-Rabigh pipeline project has surpassed two million safe work hours
Upon completion, currently estimated in Q2 2026, the 150km-long pipeline will process up to half a million cubic metres of water daily.
TradeArabia has reported comments from Khaled Al-Quraishi, the chief executive of the Saudi Water Partnership Company. "The project has achieved more than two million safe work hours... with work in full swing, the project is on track for commercial operations by the end of the second quarter of 2026."
The project is the first pipeline connecting water desalination sources in Makkah and Madinah, estimated to cost around 2.5 billion Saudi Riyals. Finance was secured in March 2024.
Announcing the financial close of the project last year, Al-Quraishi said, "Rayis-Rabigh IWTP consortium managed to successfully complete the financial closure... despite the floating global market conditions.
"This demonstrates SWPC’s commitment to fully support investment projects and to increase private sector participation by giving local and foreign investors the opportunity to participate in the implementation of these projects. As a result, these projects will create job opportunities and support local content to complement the strategic objectives of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030."
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 2 September 2025
- Year: 2025
Newly-released figures from Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT) show an improving picture in workplace health and safety in the Kingdom
According to the Health and Safety at Workplace Statistics publication 2024, 95% of workers have coverage for basic healthcare, 39% of workers received training in health and safety measures, 40.4% have access to a dedicated occupational health and safety department at their workplace, and 38.8% have an occupational health and safety representative at their workplace. 32.2% of workers received periodic medical examinations provided at their workplace.
The rate of work injuries among workers aged 15 and above reached 245.7 non-fatal injuries and 1.1 fatal injuries per 100,000 workers, excluding road traffic injuries. The non-fatal injuries rate has shown a significant improvement in recent years, dropping by 30% compared with 416 per 100,000 reported a few years ago. Regarding risks at workplace, the results highlighted that 5.4% of workers were required to work on hazardous machines, 2.1% were required to deal with chemicals, and 1% are exposed to heavy metals.
The results also showed that over the past 12 months, 79.5% of workers reported that they had not experienced any work-related health problems. The most common work-related health problems were "work-related stress" at 2.1%, followed by "eye and vision problems" at 2%.
The estimates of Health and Safety at Workplace Statistics are based on self-reported data from participants through field visits conducted in the 2024 National Health Survey (NHS), except for the work-related injury rate, which was calculated from the register-based data from the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, and the 2024 population estimates from the General Authority for Statistics.
Updated systems and regulations
In line with Vision 2030 objectives aiming to minimise workplace injuries, diseases, and fatalities across all sectors, the systems and regulations related to occupational safety and health have been developed and updated in recent years, aligned with the needs of the Saudi labour market and international standards.
Key legislative measures passed in the last couple of years have included quotas for HSE practitioners for a certain numbers of workers, along with Saudization quotas for HSE practitioners; and regulations prohibiting outdoor work in the middle of the day, in common with other Gulf states. Initiatives launched by the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health (NCOSH) have included the creation of a national platform for reporting and investigating work-related accidents, injuries, and occupational diseases to identify root causes of accidents, establish appropriates rules to reduce them and prevent their recurrence. It is also conducting training and awareness initiatives, establishing OSH research and development centres, developing a system to verify OSH practitioners, improving the knowledge and capabilities of OSH practitioners to implement mandatory health and safety regulations, and running programmes to enhance companies’ compliance with OSH requirements and regulate high-risk occupations.
These policies and initiatives are achieving results, with a significant reduction in the Kingdom's work-related injury rate.
At the Global Occupational Safety and Health Conference held in Riyadh in May, H.E. Eng. Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Human Resources and Social Development and chairman of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, announced landmark initiatives aimed at enhancing the occupational safety and health system in both Saudi Arabia and across the region. These included the launch of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the creation of an Occupational Safety and Health Standards Guide in collaboration with the General Organization for Social Insurance, as well as the introduction of the National Incentive Program for Compliance and Excellence, among others.
- Details
- Matthew Hayhoe
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 1 September 2025
- Year: 2025
Workers in Oman's energy and minerals sector must meet mandatory licensing requirements implemented by the Sultanate's Ministry of Labour
Effective from September 1st, 2025, the licensing rule change aims to regulate the labour market and improve workplace efficiency and safety.
43 professions, including HSE advisor, excavator operator, and machinist, among others, are subject to mandatory licensing under the new rules.
Licenses can be obtained via the Oman Energy Association, and are (as of September 2025) a prerequisite for the renewal or issue of work permits. Work permits will not be granted without the professional practice licenses. The Ministry of Labour has urged organisations to take measures to ensure their workforces adhere to the new regulations.
Similar regulation has been introduced to the logistics sector, including refrigerated truck drivers and waste transport truck drivers.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Europe
- Date: 29 August, 2025
- Year: 2025
The Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP) and the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) designed to strengthen collaboration and provide safety professionals with greater recognition for their skills and experience.
As part of the agreement, Certified Safety Professionals (CSPs) can now apply for the CertIOSH membership grade. This credential highlights advanced safety leadership abilities and positions members one step closer to achieving Chartered Member of IOSH (CMIOSH), one of the most respected titles in the industry. More details on the application process are available on the CertIOSH webpage.
The partnership is reciprocal. BCSP has reaffirmed its recognition of CMIOSH and, for the first time, added Chartered Fellow of IOSH (CFIOSH) as credentials that meet its qualified credential requirement for CSP applicants. This means that IOSH members who hold either designation, and who also meet BCSP’s education and experience criteria, can apply directly for the CSP and complete the examination required to obtain it. Information for IOSH members interested in pursuing the CSP can be found on the BCSP website.
The agreement goes beyond credential recognition. Both organisations have committed to enhancing access to professional development opportunities and resources for their members worldwide. This includes joint initiatives to provide training, educational programmes and knowledge sharing that will support safety professionals in their career advancement.
Global safety standards
The collaboration is expected to benefit thousands of professionals globally who hold, or aspire to hold, either BCSP or IOSH designations. It reflects the growing need for international cooperation in occupational safety and health, especially as industries become more interconnected and as organisations seek consistent benchmarks for safety leadership.
Through this partnership, BCSP and IOSH reaffirm their commitment to advancing the profession and supporting safety practitioners in making workplaces safer worldwide.
“This collaborative approach to safety credentialing provides highly skilled safety professionals additional opportunities for recognition globally,” said BCSP Past President Ashok Garlapati, CSP, QEP, CFIOSH, FASSP. “This MoU is in line with BCSP's strategic objective of working toward global impact by expanding recognition and value of BCSP certification across international markets, ensuring cultural and regulatory relevance. I am glad to have worked alongside IOSH to enhance the careers of proven professionals from our organisations, building their influence so that they can better create a safer world.”
“As a body committed to championing the global occupational safety and health profession, we are delighted to sign this MoU. It sets out how we plan to continue engaging with BCSP, who we have been successfully collaborating with to drive global standards in occupational safety and health,” said Nicole Rinaldi, IOSH director of Professional Services. “IOSH members and CSPs share a dedication to ensuring people can go to work and return home without being harmed. We believe this MoU, by providing them with the opportunity to expand their credentials, will support them through greater professional recognition globally as well as enhance career development opportunities.”
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Middle East
- Date: 28 August, 2025
- Year: 2025
OQ Exploration and Production (OQEP) has successfully commissioned the Bisat-C Expansion Facilities in Block 60, raising total oil processing capacity to 67,000 barrels per day, according to the Oman News Agency.
The project, described as a major milestone in OQEP’s upstream growth strategy, was delivered in record time, from contract award in January 2024 to first crude in less than 18 months. The early completion reflects what the company called “high levels of coordination, planning, and technical execution.”
The expansion enables an additional gross fluids handling capacity of 447,000 barrels per day, including 37,000 bpd of oil and 410,000 bpd of Produced Water treatment. OQEP said this strengthens the maturation of production growth from its flagship Block 60 asset.
Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) standards were a central pillar of the project’s delivery. At its peak, Bisat-C hosted 1,200 personnel, achieving three million safe man-hours without a single Lost Time Injury (LTI). The project also recorded two million kilometres driven without any Road Traffic Accidents (RTA), underscoring OQEP’s commitment to safe operations.
Oman’s localisation agenda also benefited from the development. OQEP reported an In-Country Value (ICV) spend of RO 24.6mn directed to SMEs, Made in Oman goods, and local service providers. In addition, 23 Omani graduates were trained and employed through the project.
On the technical side, the expansion required 486 piles (each 12 metres deep) to support new tanks and processing infrastructure. The Produced Water tank, the largest installed, has a storage capacity of 27,784 cubic metres (174,700 barrels). Other key units include a Gas Flotation Tank (15 metres high), a Gross Inlet Separator weighing 145 tonnes, and a Heater Treater and Desalter package with a combined capacity of 40,400 bpd.
OQEP added that the new water injection pumps, powered by a 4 MW system, will enhance reservoir management by re-injecting 1,130 cubic metres per hour at 90 Barg.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- North America
- Topic: HSE
- Region: North America
- Date: 27 August 2025
- Year: 2025
The U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration renewed its alliance with the National Waste & Recycling Association and the Solid Waste Association of North America with the aim of improving the safety and health of workers in the solid waste and recycling industry
Over the term of the three-year agreement, OSHA, NWRA and SWANA will focus on safety issues, including transportation hazards such as backovers and distracted driving, slips, trips and falls, as well as needlestick and musculoskeletal injuries. They will also address potential health issues associated with lithium battery hazards in waste and recycling collection and processing.
The participants will collaborate to develop resources such as educational articles, fact sheets, and toolkits aimed at preventing and mitigating hazards and will share information at industry conferences, forums and meetings. Particular attention will be paid small- and medium-sized employers, to ensure that all businesses within the waste and recycling industry have access to essential safety information and resources.
The initiative takes place under OSHA's Alliance Program, whereby the agency develops voluntary, collaborative working relationships with organisations committed to workplace safety and health. They include trade and professional associations, labour unions, educational institutions, community and faith-based groups, and government agencies.
Alliance participants work with OSHA to provide workers and employers with information, guidance, and resources to promote safety and health in workplaces in order to prevent workplace fatalities, injuries and illnesses. Alliances also ensure that workers know their rights and employers understand their responsibilities under the Occupational Safety and Health Act.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Middle East
- Topic: ESG
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 25 August 2025
- Year: 2025
Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) has signed an MoU with Bahrain Center for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat) to advance Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) initiatives in support of Bahrain’s sustainability goals
The MoU covers co-operation to enhance energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and balance economic and environmental priorities. Key initiatives include a specialised research study to identify the optimal energy mix for Alba’s operations, and the development of a unified ESG framework. A joint task force of experts from both organisations will lead these efforts. This collaboration, aligned with Bahrain’s net-zero 2060 commitment reinforces the value of strategic partnerships in driving sustainable industrial growth, advancing research, and delivering long-term benefits to the local community.
Alba’s CEO Ali Al Baqali stated, “This MoU with Derasat is a testament to Alba’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and innovation. By combining our industrial expertise with Derasat’s research capabilities, we are laying the groundwork for transformative ESG initiatives that will not only benefit Alba but also contribute to Bahrain’s national goals. Together, we aim to pioneer solutions in renewable energy and carbon reduction that are both economically viable and environmentally responsible.”
Bahrain Center for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat)’s chief executive officer, Abdulla Mohamed Alahmed, added, "This memorandum reflects our shared vision to strengthen research partnerships in energy and sustainability. Through advanced mathematical modelling and scenario analysis conducted by our Artificial Intelligence and Renewable Energy Lab (AIRE Lab), we aim to deliver practical, data-driven solutions that support Bahrain’s long-term economic competitiveness and environmental goals.”
Since its inception, Alba has invested in numerous environment, sustainable and socio-economic development projects that have had a positive impact on society, launching a comprehensive ESG roadmap with six target areas in 2022. Alba’s recent projects such as the first-of-its-kind US$37.5 million zero-waste Spent Pot Lining Treatment Plant, the Power Station 5 Block 4 Project, and the upcoming +6 MW Solar Farm Project align with the goals of Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030 as well as the Kingdom’s Net Zero Carbon targets. In May 2024 Alba launched EternAl, its low carbon aluminium product line with two initial variants: EternAl-30 and EternAl-15 with a 30% and 15% recycled content, respectively. This advances its commitment to a circular economy and secondary aluminium, while addressing the growing global demand for low carbon aluminium.
Alba has been recognised for its initiatives to produce aluminium responsibly through awards such as Top ESG performer in Bahrain by ESG Invest, Safeguard Label from Bureau Veritas and Best Corporate Governance Award by Ethical Boardroom.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- North America
- Topic: HSE
- Region: North America
- Date: 21 August 2025
- Year: 2025
The US Department of the Interior is updating oil and gas commingling rules to align with the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
'Commingling' means combining oil or gas production from two or more sources into a single stream for measurement and processing.
The updates, led by the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE), and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), provide clear standards that support safe operations, improve efficiency and maximise recovery of America’s energy resources. BSEE has finalised a rule to clarify expectations for offshore commingling, ensuring production methods protect well integrity, safety and ultimate recovery. The BLM is also issuing interim guidance to broaden commingling authority on public and tribal lands until updated regulations are complete. Field offices are directed to process applications quickly and consistently under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act’s expanded provisions.
According to the Department of the Interior, these updates support the Trump administration’s energy and regulatory priorities by advancing the goals of Executive Order, “Unleashing American Energy.” which seeks to maximise the USA’s energy resources while reducing ‘burdensome and ideallocailly motivated” regulations which impede developemtn of these resources and put up costs. They also align with Secretary Burgum’s orders emphasizing safe, efficient and predictable oversight of oil and gas operations, reinforcing policies that remove unnecessary regulatory barriers while ensuring maximum resource recovery and environmental protection.
“From day one, the Trump administration has worked to cut red tape, strengthen America’s energy dominance and ensure responsible resource development,” said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum. “We’re delivering on that by aligning our regulations with the law, streamlining approval processes and giving operators a clear framework rooted in sound science and engineering. These updates make it easier to produce American energy without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles, while at the same time protecting taxpayers, tribes and our shared energy future by ensuring production is safe, efficient and maximises the long-term value of our resources.”
- Details
- Matthew Hayhoe
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 20 August 2025
- Year: 2025
Compliance rates reached 96% across the Dubai Municipality's 25,000 site inspections in the first half of 2025
That figure represents a 36% increase against H1 2024, with over 18,800 construction sites inspected.
1,669 completion certificates were issued, up 30% on 2024. Those permits represented around two million square metres of residential, commercial and industrial space.
CEO of the Dubai Municipality's buildings regulation and permits agency, Eng. Maryam Al Muhairi, said the organisation "places great emphasis on precise engineering oversight of construction activities, considering it a key tool to regulate the sector and elevate its standards, in line with our unwavering commitment to developing it into the world’s smartest and most sustainable.
"Today, Dubai is not just a rapidly developing city — it is a global platform offering a sustainable model for future urban development. We remain committed to pursuing this ambitious vision, working hand in hand with our partners in the construction sector to drive sustainability, excellence, and innovation."
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Middle East
- Topic: Fire Safety
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 20 August 2025
- Year: 2025
Oman-based Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy (FEC) has appointed Sam Alcock as chief executive officer, as it targets 30% growth this year
Alcock joined the specialist fire and life safety consultancy in 2011 as a fire consultant and was appointed Dubai director in 2016. He has been instrumental in positioning Tenable FEC as a trusted fire engineering partner across the GCC and internationally, expanding the consultancy’s footprint in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Africa and India while maintaining strong profitability and client relationships. In his new role he will have a strong focus on scaling operations in existing markets and developing new regional and international opportunities.
In 2024, Tenable FEC recorded a 25% increase in revenue, delivering over 540 projects valued at US$6mn, spanning mixed-use and hospitality developments and pre- and post-contract fire engineering services for high-end projects such as those along the Dubai Water Canal. So far in 2025, the consultancy has been awarded projects worth US$4.2mn. With Tenable FEC now Salamah-approved in Saudi Arabia and the local office fully operational, the consultancy is targeting 30% growth this year, driven by large-scale infrastructure and masterplanning projects.
Alcock said, “It’s a privilege to be awarded the role of CEO at such a pivotal time for the business. Our team has built a strong foundation for growth and I look forward to continuing this momentum. My focus will be on expanding our capabilities, enhancing service delivery and strengthening our reputation as a leader in fire and life safety consultancy.”
Founded in Oman in 2010, Tenable Fire Engineering Consultancy provides a comprehensive range of high-quality, fire and life safety services, including code consulting, fire system design, performance-based fire design and third-party verification within the built environment. With offices in Muscat, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia and London, the company executes regional and international projects of any size in the Middle East, Europe, Africa and Asia. The team approach projects with leading talent and innovative technologies while adhering to international best practices, design codes and standards.
- Details
- Matthew Hayhoe
- Europe
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Europe
- Date: 19 August 2025
- Year: 2025
The six-month consultation seeks industry feedback on proposed restrictions on PFAS in firefighting foams
Proposed restrictions hope to combat the risks associated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) substances currently used in foams.
The UK Health & Safety Executive (HSE) has highlighted the risks associated with PFAS, including toxicity, with evidence suggesting PFAS can cause child developmental issues; cancer; and organ damage, mobility, as they easily travel through soil, water and air (with samples found in the Arctic); and persistence, with the chemicals known as 'forever chemicals'.
A six-month public consultation period, running until 18th February, 2026, hopes to establish stakeholder perspectives before introducing restrictions.
The director of the HSE's chemicals regulation division, Dr Richard Daniels, elaborated, "HSE’s proposals have been developed through robust scientific methodology and where possible we have spoken with interested parties from across Great Britain. Now we are looking for more information from our stakeholders.
"We’re seeking evidence-based feedback on our analysis to ensure any future restrictions are proportionate, effective and tailored to Great Britain’s specific needs."
- Details
- Matthew Hayhoe
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: August 18th
- Year: 2025
The Saudi Gazette has reported several health and safety regulation changes to group housing height, space, location, and noise levels amongst other criteria
Saudi's Ministry of Municipalities and Housing deems housing units with capacity between 500 and 10,000 people as 'group housing', with residential buildings capped at 500.
Reports suggest the new regulation will require a dedicated operational supervisor at each group residential facility, bedrooms constructed at least four square meters per person occupying it, and two kitchens, toilets and bathrooms per eight residents.
One parking space must now be included per 100 residents at each residential project.
No more than 40% of the site's land plot can be developed moving forward.
Boundary walls on commercial streets, barriers above fences, and air-conditioning units or satellite dishes on balconies have reportedly all been prohibited under the new regulation.