Thu, 17-Oct-2024
In accordance with the policy of the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources to protect lives, assets, and the environment from potential risks associated with the oil, gas, and petrochemical industries, The Egyptian Ethylene and Derivatives Company (ETHYDCO) recently hosted a Process Safety Symposium. The primary objective of this event was to promote the implementation of process safety systems within the companies associated with the Ministry. Notably, representatives from BakerRisk, a distinguished consultancy specializing in process safety, participated in the symposium.
The symposium was organized with the great support of Geo. Alaa Al-Batal, First Undersecretary of the Ministry and Supervisor of Environment, Safety, Occupational Health, Energy Efficiency, and Climate and Chemist Gamal Fathi, MOP HSE advisor and Supreme HSE committee chairman. Key figures in attendance included Dr. Ashraf Ramadan, Chairman's Assistant of the Holding Company for Natural Gases, responsible for Environmental Protection and Occupational Health & Safety; Chemist Mohamed Mostafa, General Manager of QHSE of the Egyptian Petrochemical Holding Company; and Chemist Al-Husseini Sayed Bayoumi, Expert Chairman's Assistant of the Holding Company for QHSE. Representatives from the Occupational Health & Safety and Environmental Protection Departments from various sector companies also participated.
At the commencement of the symposium, Chemist Hisham Riyad, Chairman and CEO, extended a warm welcome to the attendees. In his speech, he affirmed ETHYDCO's unwavering commitment and support for implementing safety and process safety systems, emphasizing the priority of protecting lives and assets. He further highlighted the significance of fostering a safe work environment, which is a fundamental factor in attracting foreign investments. In response to directives from Engineer Karim Badawi, the Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, he reiterated the enhanced focus on Occupational Health & Safety, and process safety as vital components of the petroleum sector strategy.
Mr. Riyad also conveyed expressions of gratitude from Geo. Alaa Al-Batal, First Undersecretary of the Ministry and Supervisor of Environment, Safety, Occupational Health, Energy Efficiency, and Climate, recognizing the successful implementation of the Safety Case file.
Representatives from BakerRisk provided a comprehensive overview of their services and technical consultations related to process safety, which initiated engaging discussions among the attendees, accompanied by an open forum for questions to enhance understanding. Furthermore, ETHYDCO presented an overview of the Safety Case file, which was elaborated upon by Chem. Hany Tawfik, Ethydco General Manager of Safety. The presentation showcased the organization’s accomplishments in achieving its objectives and adherence to all mandated process safety standards (Risk Management PSM Program, Safety Case) and guidelines established by the Ministry of Petroleum.
The Safety Case Deliverables were formulated by TÜV Rhineland and submitted to the Petrochemical Holding Company in August 2024. The presentation also included a review of the study's outcomes, key challenges encountered, and lessons learned to facilitate knowledge transfer and maximize benefits within the sector.