Welcome to the Autumn issue of HSME
With the UAE preparing to welcome global leaders to COP28 in November 2023 to address, amongst other things, the urgent need to transition toward sustainable energy systems – ADIPEC has emerged as a catalyst for change. This year, the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC) is racing ahead of the industry to promote and accelerate decarbonisation in the Energy sector under the theme ‘Decarbonising. Faster. Together.’ The conference and exhibition aims to act as an inclusive platform, framing diverse conversations from across the energy value chain and beyond while driving investment into the clean energies of the future. Find more exclusive insights into how ADIPEC is driving decarbonisation in our interview with Christopher Hudson, President of dmg events, on page 55. This year has been one of bleak climate revelations, with more extreme weather events causing untold havoc and disruption confirming our worst fears over our rapidly warming climate. However, weather is only the symptom of a wider climate problem suggests Dr Ashish Mulraj Ved, HSE Consultant and Training Specialist. One he describes as “a profound health and safety challenge impacting every corner of our globe”. Discover his thoughts on page 7. In other news, word may not have reached you on the recent deaths of nine agricultural workers in Jordan, most of whom were refugees. But, the International Labour Organization (ILO) won't let their avoidable and tragic loss go unnoticed. Find out more about their work to assure the fundamental right to a safe workplace on page 8. Spearheading safety in the Oil & Gas industry in this issue is Ian Richards, with his article on the vital need for emergency preparedness on offshore platforms. Terry Gregory explores using gas detection safety to build a better safety culture. Graeme Lawrie shares his expert advice on optimising FR workwear and technical textiles in your PPE. Christo de Wet explores the importance of correctly utilising your respiratory protective equipment. Caroline Savage questions why she sees businesses repeating the same mistakes with their safety footwear. And, closing our Autumn edition, James Pretty attempts to dispel some of the preconceived notions around signage as safety.