Health, Safety and Environment remain energy industry's top priorities

Organisers of the International Petroleum Technology Conference (IPTC) 2007 have brought together a range of HSE experts to set out an agenda for the next decade.

Leading energy industry professionals will hear of the central relationship between HSE excellence and overall business success at a unique event in December.

There is considerable room for HSE improvement across the industry, both in terms of productivity and for retaining and replacing its personnel by enhancing the image of careers in energy production.

"It is crucial that the energy industry takes the lead in embedding sustainable HSE enhancements in business strategies and work practices," said Nehad F. Al-Fraih, Senior Specialist at Kuwait Oil Co. and co-chairperson of the IPTC Overarching Industry Issues Subcommittee. "The sheer volume and quality of on-site expertise at IPTC means that there will be remarkable opportunities to learn from international HSE leaders," she emphasised.

In recent months HSE issues have been prominent across the industry, from Norway to Trinidad. In many cases technological and "best practice" solutions have been deployed. IPTC delegates are invited to join a discussion that will raise HSE expectations, enable organisations to maintain their focus on HSE.

"Delivering HSE Excellence" is a session to be managed by Michael Mannering, VP QHSE Schlumberger, and moderated by Ali Al Jarwan, General Manager of the Abu Dhabi Marine Operating Company. Panellists include Abdullah Aziz Al Kayumi (Abu Dhabi Marine Operating Co), Nasser Muburak (Qatar Petroleum), Helen O'Connor (Halliburton Energy Services) and Sherri Stuewer (Exxon Mobil Corp).

Panel objectives include setting a clear HSE agenda for the energy industry for practising generation of specialists, geologists and engineers.

"A Changing World - Interdependence, Innovation and Implementation," will take place 4-6 December 2007 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.