Regional Coverage
Regional Coverage
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 1st May 2026
- Year: 2026
Ooredoo Kuwait has secured an “excellent” rating following a large-scale emergency evacuation drill at its headquarters, conducted in coordination with Kuwait Civil Defence. The exercise highlights the company’s ongoing focus on workplace safety and crisis preparedness.
The drill simulated a full-building evacuation scenario, designed to test both employee response and the effectiveness of on-site safety systems. Officials from the Civil Defence authority oversaw the operation, evaluating performance against established health and safety standards while providing hands-on guidance to participants.
Alongside the exercise, the company partnered with the Kuwait Public Fire Force to deliver a safety awareness workshop. The session aimed to reinforce knowledge of fire prevention, emergency procedures and risk mitigation, supporting a broader culture of shared responsibility across the workforce.
Following the assessment, Civil Defence awarded the facility its highest “excellent” rating, citing the efficiency of evacuation procedures, adherence to safety protocols and the overall readiness of both personnel and infrastructure.
Omar Al-Bassam, Chief Human Resources and Administration Service Officer, said the initiative reflects the company’s proactive approach to safety. “Ensuring the wellbeing of our employees and visitors remains a top priority. We continue to enhance our safety systems through close collaboration with government authorities, particularly Civil Defence and the Public Fire Force,” he said.
“Exercises of this nature are essential in strengthening preparedness and ensuring our teams can respond confidently in emergency situations. Achieving an ‘excellent’ rating demonstrates the effectiveness of our approach and the strong coordination between all parties involved,” he added.
Osama Al-Ghanim, Director of Services, noted that the drill was executed under a detailed operational framework developed jointly with Civil Defence. “Employees were guided through structured evacuation procedures and directed to designated safe areas within the building, all of which were evaluated to meet stringent safety requirements,” he said.
He added that advanced safety systems and clearly defined emergency protocols played a critical role in achieving the high rating. “Our commitment to international best practice is ongoing. Through collaboration with the Public Fire Force, we continue to deliver training programmes covering fire response, evacuation and first aid to ensure our teams are fully equipped to manage emergencies.”
The company reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining robust safety standards and acknowledged the support of national authorities in strengthening workplace resilience across the sector.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 1st May 2026
- Year: 2026
Construction activity at Expo 2030 Riyadh has reached a new stage of development with the award of two additional main utilities and infrastructure packages to Al Yamama Company, strengthening the focus on safety as works scale up across the 6 million sq m site.
The latest contracts follow earlier infrastructure works awarded to Nesma & Partners, and form part of a wider programme to prepare the site for future construction phases. These include internal road networks, smart mobility systems, and the installation of essential utilities such as water, sewage, electricity, telecommunications and EV charging infrastructure.
Beyond enabling development, safety remains a central priority across all operations. Project teams have already recorded more than one million safe working hours without a lost time incident, a milestone highlighted by organisers as evidence of strict adherence to health, safety and environmental (HSE) standards.
Talal Al-Marri, CEO of Expo 2030 Riyadh, said the new awards reflect continued progress across the programme while reinforcing safety expectations. “As construction advances, maintaining the highest levels of health and safety is non-negotiable,” he said. “These new packages build on strong momentum across the project, while ensuring that every phase of delivery is carried out with strict compliance to safety, quality and environmental standards.”
He added that contractor selection is based not only on technical capability but also on a proven commitment to worker welfare. “We are working with partners who share our safety culture and understand that responsible delivery is essential to achieving a world-class Expo,” he said.
From the contractor side, Hamad Mohammad Al Ammar, Board Member and Vice President of Al Yamama Company, emphasised safety as a core operational principle. “We are proud to contribute to Expo 2030 Riyadh through these infrastructure packages,” he said. “Our commitment goes beyond delivery timelines; it is rooted in ensuring safe working environments, strong HSE compliance, and sustainable construction practices at every stage.”
With infrastructure works progressing in phases, organisers say the project continues to prioritise safe execution as a foundation for long-term success.
- Details
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 30th April 2026
- Year: 2026
Growing tensions in the Middle East have placed thousands of seafarers in a difficult and dangerous position, prompting urgent calls for action from global maritime authorities
Officers of the Special Tripartite Committee under the Maritime Labour Convention 2006 have raised serious concerns about the safety of around 20,000 seafarers currently stranded in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
Representing governments, seafarers and shipowners, the committee has appealed to Member States of the International Labour Organization to act quickly and responsibly. Their message is clear that immediate cooperation is needed to protect lives and ensure the wellbeing of those working at sea under increasingly uncertain conditions. They have also urged flag States and the wider shipping industry to proceed with extreme caution until the situation becomes more stable.
Despite the ongoing crisis, the committee stressed that the Maritime Labour Convention 2006 must continue to be followed without exception. Upholding these standards is seen as even more important during times of conflict, when seafarers face heightened risks and limited support.
The situation has also raised concerns about the supply of essential goods. Many vessels in the region are unable to move freely, making it difficult to access food, water and fuel. The committee has therefore emphasised the need to maintain steady deliveries of these vital supplies. In addition, they have called for practical steps to allow crew changes and safe return of seafarers to their home countries, in line with international regulations.
Another key issue is the recognition of seafarers as essential workers. The committee has asked governments to take clear steps to support their safe movement, including access to shore leave, medical care and communication with their families.
Human rights remain central to the discussion. Seafarers should have the freedom to decide whether to work in high risk areas without fear of losing future job opportunities. The committee also acknowledged ongoing cooperation between global maritime leaders in addressing the situation and working towards safer conditions for all involved.
Saudi Arabia also voiced concerns about the safety of seafarers. The kingdom's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan met with the Netherlands' Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen in Riyadh on 22 April. During the discussion, the ministers reviewed joint efforts to ensure the security and safety of international waterways.
- Details
- Sania Aziz
- Middle East
- Topic: HSE
- Region: Middle East
- Date: 30th April 2026
- Year: 2026
The State of Qatar joined the global observance of the World Day for Safety and Health at Work on 28 April, reaffirming its focus on strengthening worker protection, improving occupational safety frameworks and promoting a prevention-led culture across all sectors.
The annual occasion is used internationally to highlight workplace risks and encourage measures that help reduce injuries, illnesses and fatalities on the job.
As part of its proactive efforts, the Ministry of Public Health’s Occupational Safety and Health Department organised awareness seminars on 16 April in collaboration with partners, including the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort and Convention Hotel.
The sessions were designed for both employers and employees, with discussions centred on biological hazards in working environments and the importance of preventive practices to limit exposure and improve safety outcomes.
Representatives from the Ministry of Public Health and the Workers’ Support and Insurance Fund also contributed to the programme, underlining the value of coordinated action between institutions in strengthening workplace protection systems.
Officials stressed that ongoing training and awareness initiatives are essential to building safer workplaces, noting that sustained investment in education and prevention helps reduce accidents, improve productivity and enhance overall organisational performance across sectors.
- 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.