EHS Management Consultants

Building Resilience: The Flood Mitigation in the UAE The most frequent natural disasters globally are flash floods, which happen when a lot of rain falls quickly and produces a lot of surface runoff. Flash floods result in a significant loss of life and economic consequences annually while also exacerbating social, economic and environmental vulnerabilities. On 16 April 2024, the United Arab Emirates experienced extreme rainfall with some areas receiving over 250 mm in less than 24 hours. This extreme weather event has impacted various sectors across the region, including industrial and commercial facilities. Factors Influencing Rainfall Humidity Levels: Higher humidity increases the chances of rain. Temperature: Extreme heat can lead to thunderstorms. Wind Patterns: Changes in wind direction can bring moisture-laden air from the ocean. But how do we move from chaos to control? How do we harness innovation to transform vulnerable areas into resilient landscapes? The answer lies in floo...

  Confined spaces are areas not designed for continuous human occupancy but may require entry for maintenance, repairs, or inspections. Examples include tanks, silos, manholes, and tunnels. These spaces present unique challenges, primarily due to limited ventilation, restricted access, and the potential for hazardous conditions. Oxygen deficiency, toxic gases, or explosive atmospheres can quickly turn a routine task into a life-threatening situation. This makes understanding and controlling the environment inside a confined space essential for safety. One critical aspect of ensuring safety in a confined space is performing a 3-level gas check. This involves testing the air at different heights: top, middle, and bottom of the space before entry. The reason for this multi-level approach is that gases of different densities behave differently. For example, lighter gases like methane tend to accumulate at the top, while heavier gases like carbon dioxide settle at the bottom. Withou...