Regional Coverage
Regional Coverage
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 28th April 2026
- Year: 2026
During Gulf Week for Occupational Health and Safety (26-30 April), Qatar's Ministry of Public Health issued safety guidance aimed at improving working conditions and road safety for taxi drivers operating through smart transport applications.
The ministry urged drivers to strictly follow traffic regulations, avoid speeding, and comply with all applicable road safety rules to reduce risks for passengers and road users, local publication Gulf Times said.
It also highlighted the importance of maintaining clean vehicles and prohibited smoking inside taxis to ensure a healthy environment for riders.
Further advice covered proper passenger seating arrangements and secure placement of luggage or goods to prevent movement during travel that could lead to accidents or discomfort.
Drivers were additionally reminded not to stop in unsafe or unauthorised locations, even if requested by passengers, stressing that safety must take priority over convenience at all times.
The guidance forms part of broader efforts to promote occupational health and safety awareness across transport sectors and reinforce safer driving practices during daily operations.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 27th April 2026
- Year: 2026
Saudi Arabia's General Authority for Statistics has published its 2025 Health and Safety at Workplace report, revealing a risk awareness rate of 76.7% among workers aged 18 and above.
The findings also show that occupational injuries remain relatively low. Among workers aged 15 and above, the rate stood at 245 non-fatal injuries and 1.3 fatal incidents per 100,000 workers, excluding road traffic-related cases.
In terms of workplace conditions, just over half of respondents (51.8%) said preventive safety measures are in place at their workplaces. Meanwhile, 46.6% reported access to at least one initiative designed to ease daily tasks, and 34.5% indicated that their employer provides resources supporting personal health and wellbeing.
The report highlights prolonged standing as the most common occupational risk, affecting 25.3% of workers who spend four hours or more on their feet each day. Fatigue or working beyond personal capacity followed at 16.7%, reflecting ongoing challenges around workload and physical strain.
When it comes to health impacts, work-related stress emerged as the most frequently reported issue over the past year, cited by 6% of respondents. Eye and vision problems ranked second at 3%, indicating the effects of prolonged screen use and working conditions.
The data was collected through household surveys conducted as part of the National Health Survey 2025, using self-reported responses from participants. Injury rates were calculated separately using administrative records from the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health.
Overall, the report provides insight into workplace safety conditions in Saudi Arabia, highlighting both progress in awareness and areas where further improvements in health support and risk mitigation may be required.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 27th April 2026
- Year: 2026
A significant new regulation aimed at strengthening occupational health and safety across the Kingdom came into full effect last week, requiring employers to implement mandatory fitness examinations for workers.
From 22 April 2026, the Regulation for Occupational Fitness Examinations and Non-Communicable Diseases Examinations has become enforceable, marking a key milestone in Saudi Arabia’s efforts to create healthier and safer workplaces.
The move forms part of the country’s broader Vision 2030 ambitions to modernise labour practices, reduce occupational risks, and promote long-term workforce wellbeing.
The regulation, issued by the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health under the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD), applies to all employees in government entities, private sector establishments, and non-profit organisations.
It covers permanent staff, temporary or seasonal workers, trainees, people with disabilities, and those on remote contracts.
Under the new rules, employers must arrange and ensure the completion of comprehensive occupational fitness examinations conducted by accredited specialists in occupational medicine recognised by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties.
These assessments evaluate physical, mental, and psychological fitness to ensure employees can safely perform their roles.
Examinations are mandatory in several situations: before starting employment (pre-placement), when changing roles or positions that involve different health and safety risks, following an occupational injury or illness, upon return from extended medical leave, and for periodic monitoring in high-risk professions.
The checks also support the early detection and management of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and other chronic health issues that could affect workplace performance or safety.
The regulation was published in the Official Gazette (Umm Al-Qura) and followed a 180-day implementation period after its formal adoption via Ministerial Decision 33232.
This grace period allowed employers time to update policies, engage qualified medical providers, and align data protection and human resources processes with the new requirements.
Health and safety experts have welcomed the development.
The examinations go beyond traditional pre-employment medical checks by incorporating a holistic approach that includes mental and psychological wellbeing – areas increasingly recognised as critical to preventing workplace incidents and supporting productivity.
Typical components of the fitness assessment may include clinical examinations, laboratory tests (such as blood analysis and urine screening), and, where clinically indicated, electrocardiograms (for those over 40), chest X-rays, audiometry, or tests for aerobic capacity and musculoskeletal function.
For certain high-risk roles – for example in construction, firefighting, or industrial settings – additional specialised evaluations are required.
By focusing on non-communicable diseases and overall fitness, the regulation aims to reduce occupational illnesses and injuries, lower absenteeism, and contribute to a more resilient labour market.
It aligns with international standards from the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the World Health Organization (WHO), while reflecting local priorities under Saudi Arabia’s national occupational safety framework.
Employers are now advised to review their existing health and safety policies, identify workers who may require examinations, and ensure compliance to avoid potential penalties.
Failure to meet the requirements could result in regulatory action, although the emphasis in the initial period is expected to be on guidance and support rather than immediate enforcement.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- North America
- Topic: HSE
- Region: North America
- Date: 24th April 2026
- Year: 2026
The U.S. Department of Labor has ordered a New Mexico-based inspection company to reinstate and compensate a terminated worker who reported safety concerns during installation of a natural gas pipeline in Watonga, Oklahoma
The department's Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) investigated a whistleblower complaint filed against Legacy Energy and Distribution LLC that alleged a construction crew was installing a pipeline without following federal regulations. The complainant used “stop work authority” to halt the installation and contacted an independent, third-party testing company to verify observed concerns, which Legacy later confirmed as valid. Legacy subsequently fired the inspector, alleging failure to follow the established chain of command and complete the probationary period.
OSHA determined that Legacy wrongfully terminated the inspector for engaging in protected activities under the Pipeline Safety Improvement Act, which protects employees from retaliation for reporting violations of federal laws related to pipeline safety and security. OSHA ordered Legacy to reinstate the employee and pay back wages, interest, and compensatory damages, totalling more than US$35,000.
OSHA's Whistleblower Protection Program enforces protections for employees who suffer retaliation for engaging in protected activities under more than 20 federal laws.
All federal agencies are required to establish procedures to ensure that no employee suffers retaliation for reporting unsafe or unhealthy working conditions, or for otherwise engaging in safety or health activities.
Federal employees who believe that they have suffered retaliation for disclosing a violation of a law, rule, or regulation, gross mismanagement, a gross waste of funds, an abuse of authority, and/or a substantial and specific danger to public health or safety, may file a complaint with the Office of Special Counsel (OSC).
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 24th April 2026
- Year: 2026
Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has reported a 20% decline in truck-related traffic accidents in 2025, following a series of targeted safety initiatives, infrastructure upgrades and regulatory improvements across the emirate’s logistics sector.
The authority attributed the reduction to a coordinated approach aimed at strengthening road safety while enhancing efficiency within freight transport operations. These measures form part of broader efforts to support economic growth, improve supply chain performance and uphold high safety standards.
A number of key initiatives were introduced to address risks associated with heavy vehicle movement. These included the installation of rear underrun protection systems on trucks to minimise the severity of collisions, as well as specialised training programmes designed to improve driver behaviour and technical skills.
RTA also enhanced its rapid response capabilities, enabling quicker removal of broken-down trucks from major roads. This has helped reduce congestion and minimise the risk of secondary incidents caused by stationary vehicles.
In parallel, the authority conducted more than 30 awareness campaigns targeting freight operators and drivers. These initiatives focused on reducing unsafe practices such as abrupt lane changes, insufficient following distances and improper reversing, all of which are common contributors to accidents involving heavy vehicles.
Infrastructure improvements have also played a role. A total of 14 dedicated truck rest areas have been established across six key locations, including major logistics hubs. These facilities are intended to improve driver welfare, support compliance with rest requirements and enhance overall traffic flow.
Regulatory measures have further strengthened compliance within the sector. The number of permits issued for truck movement during restricted hours dropped by around 70% in 2025 compared with the previous year, indicating greater adherence to updated traffic rules.
Together, these efforts highlight Dubai’s focus on creating a safer and more efficient transport environment for freight operations. By combining enforcement, infrastructure investment and driver engagement, the RTA is working to reduce risks associated with heavy vehicle traffic while supporting the continued growth of the logistics sector.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 23rd April 2026
- Year: 2026
Several key authorities in Ras Al Khaimah have formed a strategic partnership to enhance the emirate’s safety and emergency response framework, aligning with directives from Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi.
The collaboration brings together the Ras Al Khaimah Civil Defence Department, Ras Al Khaimah Customs, RAKEZ, Ras Al Khaimah Ports and Ras Al Khaimah International Airport. The initiative is aimed at strengthening coordination across critical infrastructure and improving overall operational readiness.
The agreement focuses on enhancing cooperation between entities by aligning procedures, improving risk management practices and ensuring compliance with international safety standards. A key objective is to create a more integrated system capable of responding effectively to a range of emergency scenarios.
Planned measures include the regular review and updating of evacuation and emergency response plans, as well as the organisation of joint drills to test readiness and coordination. The entities will also collaborate on improving protocols for handling hazardous materials, alongside delivering specialised training programmes to build technical expertise.
In addition, the partnership will support the alignment of safety requirements for upcoming infrastructure projects and expansions. This is intended to ensure that risk mitigation and emergency preparedness are embedded from the early planning stages, in line with the emirate’s ongoing development.
Officials noted that the initiative represents a significant step towards strengthening the resilience of Ras Al Khaimah’s operational ecosystem, particularly across its ports and logistics infrastructure. By improving coordination and information sharing, the entities aim to enhance response capabilities under both routine and high-risk conditions.
The collaboration is also expected to support the emirate’s broader economic ambitions by reinforcing its reputation as a safe and efficient destination for trade, investment and industrial activity.
The agreement reflects the implementation of Decree No. 25 of 2025 issued by His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, which established the Committee for the Security and Development of Ports. The committee is tasked with strengthening port security, improving coordination between authorities and promoting the exchange of expertise and best practices.
Through this coordinated approach, Ras Al Khaimah is advancing its efforts to build a robust, future-ready safety framework capable of supporting continued growth while safeguarding critical infrastructure and communities.
- Details
- shivani dhruv
- Europe
- Topic: Industrial, HSE
- Region: Europe
- Date: 22nd April 2026
- Year: 2026
Trade unions across Europe are calling for stronger EU legislation to protect workers from extreme heat, warning that rising temperatures linked to climate change are creating growing risks in workplaces across the continent
The appeal comes ahead of International Workers Memorial Day, when the labour movement honours people who have lost their lives at work.
The message will be delivered to representatives of the European Commission during a conference in Brussels organised by the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC) and the European Trade Union Institute (ETUI). Worker representatives are expected to present evidence supporting the need for binding rules requiring employers to work with unions on practical protections such as drinking water, access to shade and rest breaks during high temperatures.
According to figures cited by the unions, heat-related workplace fatalities in the EU have risen by 42% since 2000, the fastest increase of any world region. The number of people exposed to heatwaves while working has also increased by 60% over the last two decades. Nearly 47% of workers say they have felt too hot at work, while only 15% say action has been taken to protect them.
The unions also note that when temperatures rise above 30°C, the risk of workplace accidents increases by 5% to 7%. When temperatures exceed 38°C, accidents become 10% to 15% more likely.
In 2023, the European Commission issued guidance outlining employers’ responsibilities toward workers exposed to high temperatures. However, trade union research says many employers have shown reluctance to introduce preventive measures or include heat-specific protections in collective bargaining agreements.
The ETUC said this contributed to a number of preventable deaths during the previous summer, including an agricultural worker in Spain who died after harvesting fruit in temperatures above 40°C, two construction workers who collapsed from heat stroke, and a 50-year-old employee in France whose body temperature rose to 42.9°C while working in a distribution centre.
As a result, the ETUC is urging the EU to include legislation on maximum working temperatures in the forthcoming Quality Jobs Act.
Esther Lynch, General Secretary of the ETUC, said, "Deaths from heat at work are not accidents - they are predictable and preventable, yet too many employers are still failing to take the risk seriously. For many years now, our affiliates have been reporting tragic cases of workers dying as a result of exposure to extreme heat. These deaths are occurring across a wide range of sectors, including street cleaning, forestry, agriculture, construction, and even in indoor environments such as industry. Their loss underlines the urgent need to act."
“While the European Commission has taken steps in recent years, including issuing guidance, the reality on the ground is clear: guidance alone is not enough. As our members systematically report us, every summer, workers continue to fall ill, suffer accidents, and in the worst cases, lose their lives. This situation calls for urgent legislative action.”
Giulio Romani, ETUC Confederal Secretary, added, "Occupational heat is no longer an emerging issue - it is already a daily reality for millions of workers across Europe. As we have heard, this is not only about discomfort; it is about health, safety, and, increasingly, loss of life. There is, importantly, a window of opportunity. The ongoing work on the Quality Jobs Act provides a political space to integrate stronger protections for workers facing extreme weather conditions. This could be a key avenue to ensure that climate resilience becomes an integral part of quality employment in Europe."
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- North America
- Topic: Technology
- Region: North America
- Date: 22nd April 2026
- Year: 2026
The global industrial safety products market is undergoing a fundamental shift as industries move beyond basic compliance towards more intelligent, preventative safety strategies.
Driven by advances in digital technologies and stricter regulatory frameworks, the sector is evolving into a critical enabler of operational performance.
Valued at US$17.67bn in 2026, the market is projected to reach US$34.96bn by 2036, expanding at a compound annual growth rate of 7.1%. This growth reflects increasing demand for solutions that not only protect workers but also actively reduce the likelihood of incidents.
At the centre of this transformation is the adoption of connected personal protective equipment (PPE), real-time compliance monitoring and ergonomically designed safety systems. These technologies are enabling organisations to shift from reactive safety models to predictive approaches, where risks can be identified and mitigated before they escalate.
One of the strongest trends shaping the market is the integration of ergonomic design with digital compliance tools. Equipment embedded with sensors or RFID capabilities allows supervisors to monitor usage and adherence to safety protocols in real time. This combination of comfort and accountability is proving essential in improving worker adoption, particularly in high-risk industries where non-compliance remains a persistent challenge.
In parallel, the rise of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technologies is redefining hazard detection. Modern safety systems now incorporate interconnected sensors capable of tracking environmental and operational risks such as gas leaks, heat exposure and proximity to machinery. These systems can trigger automated responses when thresholds are exceeded, enhancing safety outcomes across sectors including oil and gas, mining and heavy manufacturing.
Sustainability is also emerging as a key consideration. As environmental, social and governance (ESG) requirements become more stringent, manufacturers are increasingly turning to recyclable materials and bio-based alternatives for safety equipment. This shift is particularly relevant for high-volume items such as gloves and high-visibility clothing, where reducing environmental impact without compromising durability is a growing priority.
Regionally, the United States continues to play a leading role, supported by strong regulatory enforcement and rapid uptake of digital safety technologies. However, the fastest growth is expected in emerging industrial markets. India is forecast to record the highest expansion rate through 2036, driven by large-scale infrastructure and manufacturing development, while China is also advancing steadily as it transitions towards more technologically sophisticated production environments. Germany remains a hub for innovation, particularly in precision-engineered machine safety and specialised protective solutions.
As the industry evolves, safety products are increasingly viewed not as a compliance cost but as a strategic investment. The convergence of PPE, detection systems and software platforms into integrated safety ecosystems is enabling organisations to enhance efficiency while safeguarding their workforce.
With continued innovation in connected technologies and advanced materials, the industrial safety market is set to play a central role in shaping the future of safe, resilient and high-performing industrial operations.
- Details
- Louise Waters
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 20th April 2026
- Year: 2026
IntrospeXion, a specialist consultancy firm providing mental health and wellbeing support to offshore and energy workforces, is expanding into the Middle East
The company, led by experienced psychologists and mental health practitioners, will now deliver its behavioural risk and wellbeing consultancy services to clients in the Middle East following the award of new contracts.
Working with regional-specific supply chain and service companies, IntrospeXion will provide a range of support, including on-site mental health hubs and drop-in clinics, audits and assessments, and leadership coaching to top-level energy executives. IntrospeXion will also help new clientele working in complex and demanding environments, such as offshore, to ensure they have direct access to mental health support.
The expansion into the Middle East represents IntrospeXion’s continued growth since first entering the market, demonstrating how companies are increasingly looking to prioritise the wellbeing of their employees to bolster resilience, support teams, and embed psychologically safe practices within safety cultures.
Shabnum Hanif, IntrospeXion’s founder and managing director, commented, “In the energy and offshore industry, HSE and employee wellbeing isn’t limited to the physical risks that they encounter on-site; it's about a holistic approach that encompasses mental health and welfare. When we take care of every risk our people face, we are placing the industry in the best position to push forward. While visiting contacts in the Middle East, it was evident that there was a clear recognition that caring for and investing in people is an integral part of business growth, but that there aren’t always accessible or manageable resources to utilise.
“By moving into the Middle East market, we can provide that resource. Tackling offshore operations and internal mental health policies and frameworks, we are determined to keep demonstrating that wellbeing is not a “nice to have” but rather that it should be ingrained within the operational infrastructure. We are confident that we can help make a difference in the region.”
- Details
- shivani dhruv
- Middle East
- Topic: Industrial
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 17th April 2026
- Year: 2026
The Ministry of Transport, in coordination with relevant departments of the Ministry of Interior (MOI), has concluded its campaign activities planned for the first quarter of 2026 targeting limousine companies and passenger transport service providers operating through electronic applications.
The campaigns led to the detection of 32 violations of Law No. 8 of 2019 regulating road transport, along with its Implementing Regulations issued under Minister of Transport Decision No. 13 of 2024.
According to the Ministry, the campaigns were carried out across all regions of Qatar, with a particular focus on business districts, service areas, and other high-activity zones. This reflects an expanded enforcement approach aimed at strengthening compliance in densely populated and commercially significant areas.
The Ministry of Transport reaffirmed that it continues its regulatory and enforcement efforts against non-compliant companies. It also urged all operators to comply with applicable laws and obtain the necessary licences before providing services, in order to avoid legal accountability.
It further stressed its commitment to ensuring that passenger transport companies adhere to regulations, meet safety requirements, and deliver high-quality services across the sector.
- Details
- shivani dhruv
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 15th April 2026
- Year: 2026
Minister of Environment and Climate Change HE Dr Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie has confirmed that Qatar’s environmental conditions remain stable and safe, supported by a comprehensive, technology-driven monitoring framework operating across the country.
Speaking to Qatar TV on Wednesday, the minister said the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change runs an integrated environmental monitoring system that continuously tracks air quality, water conditions, and radiation levels. This system provides authorities with accurate, real-time data to enable swift and informed decision-making.
He noted that Qatar has deployed 48 air quality monitoring stations nationwide, along with monitoring points across territorial waters, creating a robust nationwide network. These systems are further supported by a dedicated radiation monitoring programme that tracks levels across both land and sea, with data shared regionally with GCC countries and internationally with the International Atomic Energy Agency.
Addressing emergency preparedness, Dr Al Subaie explained that specialized simulation models are activated immediately in the event of any radiological incident. These models analyse key data inputs to forecast radiation levels over a 48-hour period, helping guide preventive measures and response strategies. He further emphasised ongoing efforts to enhance monitoring capabilities through the expansion of networks and the adoption of advanced technologies, alongside strengthening national expertise in radiation-related fields.
Reassuring the public, Dr Al Subaie stressed that there are currently no indicators of environmental concern. He underlined that the country maintains a high level of readiness to respond to any environmental emergency, ensuring the continued safety of citizens and residents.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Middle East
- Date: 14th April 2026
- Year: 2026
The Kuwait Municipality has stepped up its regulatory efforts in recent weeks through multiple field inspection campaigns across various governorates.
These operations focus on ensuring adherence to building regulations, urban planning standards, and public health requirements in both residential and commercial areas.
In one recent drive in the Capital Governorate, inspectors recorded 78 violations related to cleanliness, street obstructions, and itinerant vendors.
They also issued 971 warnings, undertakings, and notices to promote immediate compliance without further penalties in many cases.
The campaign targeted commercial establishments to maintain hygiene and licensing standards.
Another operation in Farwaniya Governorate resulted in 12 building code citations.
Violations included encroachments on state property and unauthorised internal divisions in shops.
Supervisory teams conducted intensive tours of construction sites to address safety risks and protect public land.
In Bnaid Al-Qar, the municipality issued three violations and 14 warnings during checks on commercial housing projects.
The focus was on compliance with construction rules and preventing misuse of designated spaces.
These actions form part of broader efforts to uphold urban planning across residential zones.
Officials have also targeted illegal structures, such as encroachments on public pathways and unauthorised livestock enclosures in certain areas.
Earlier initiatives involved removing camps near sensitive zones and addressing unlicensed modifications that could compromise safety or infrastructure.
The municipality emphasised that these crackdowns are ongoing and aim to enforce building bylaws uniformly in private, commercial, industrial, and investment properties.
Coordination with other authorities ensures systematic coverage of all six governorates.
Residents and business owners are urged to review their properties for conformity to avoid fines or remedial orders.
Such enforcement helps preserve public spaces, enhance safety, and support orderly development in Kuwait.
Campaigns are expected to continue with regular field visits by engineering and inspection teams.