Occupational safety firms will have to register under new UAE scheme

Launched by the Abu Dhabi Environment, Health and Safety Center, the scheme is an attempt by the Government to improve standards in the field.

ABU DHABI // Occupational health and safety companies and professionals in Abu Dhabi will have to register under a new government scheme, Qudorat.

Launched today by the Abu Dhabi Environment, Health and Safety Center, the scheme is an attempt by the Government to improve standards in the field.

"Qudorat is a pioneering initiative aiming to qualify and develop the capabilities of establishments and individuals working in the field of occupational health and safety," said Majid Al Mansouri, the chairman of the Department of Municipal Affairs and of Abu Dhabi's Environment Health and Safety Higher Committee, which is launching the initiative.

The scheme will apply to environment, health and safety professionals employed by the Government and by private companies, as well as to consultants, auditors and companies operating in the field.

"We want to make sure that all these practitioners meet common standards and are up to date with the latest developments in their field," said Dr Jaber Al Jaberi, acting director of the Abu Dhabi Environment, Health and Safety Center.

"We will start with Government entities. All employees dealing with this issue should register in the system," said Dr Al Jaberi, who is also the deputy secretary general of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi.

He expects about 400 professionals will register in the first stage of the scheme. To register, participants will have to undergo a two-day course, offered in conjunction with the Abu Dhabi Vocational Education and Training Institute. The course costs Dh500, while registration in the Qudorat system is free of charge, he said.

The system has so far received a positive response from professionals in the field and representatives of other Government departments.

"It is very good because it will filter out the most competent people in the UAE," said Farhan Ali, health and safety advisor at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Company. "This is an important issue and we need to have professionals who know what they are doing and are confident."

Information about how to register in the scheme is available online at http://registration.oshad.ae