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News release

15 December 2011 - NR 65/11

Event looks to UAE health and safety challenges for 2012

Key health and safety developments that will affect workers across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are being examined in Dubai today (Thursday 15 December).

The challenge of keeping workforces safe, healthy and happy is just one issue among many being tackled at the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) Middle East Branch UAE Conference, at The Address, Dubai Marina. It will explore best practice techniques that will help health and safety experts address new issues in 2012, building expertise and aiding career development.

The one-day conference will also bring professionals together to learn more on fire safety, hand protection and managing the risks of sedentary work, as well as new legal developments that could affect their work.

IOSH UAE co-ordinator Dr Rob Cooling said: “This is the first time IOSH’s Middle East Branch is holding a conference specifically aimed at health and safety professionals in the UAE. That devoted focus will mean the talks will be especially useful, as the material has been tailored to fit their cultures and working practices.

“Health and safety is such a central part of a thriving business that it’s crucial for practitioners to know the latest techniques that can help them do their jobs in a cost effective, efficient way.”

UAE Ministry of Labour’s Director of Occupational Health and Safety Dr Ali Salem Al Alili will deliver the keynote address today, with UAE University assistant professor Dr Tom Loney talking through how to overcome potential health problems that can develop from sedentary work.

Jonathan Pickering, IOSH Middle East Branch chair will also hold a session on the Branch’s wider aim of improving the working lives of people who live and work in the region.

He said: “Holding this conference with a keynote from the UAE Ministry of Labour is a fantastic way to end the year. We’re focused on helping health and safety professionals in the area to build on their careers, sharing techniques that can improve working environments for businesses in the region in 2012.

“Over the next 12 months we will be strengthening our work with the wider community, supporting government and other organisations to push for even higher standards of workplace safety and health.”

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Notes for editors:

IOSH is the Chartered body for health and safety professionals. With more than 40,000 members in 85 countries, we’re the world’s biggest professional health and safety organisation.

We set standards, and support, develop and connect our members with resources, guidance, events and training. We’re the voice of the profession, and campaign on issues that affect millions of working people.

IOSH was founded in 1945 and is a registered charity with international NGO status.