Muscat, Oman, 23 April 2013: The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) celebrated the start of its operations in the Sultanate, at an event held yesterday in Muscat under the patronage of Her Excellency Dr Muna Salim Al Jaradni, Under Secretary Ministry of Manpower underpinning the Ministry of Manpower's recognition of IOSH's presence in the Sultanate of Oman.

Through the on-ground presence, IOSH aims to build relationships with the government, industries and other organisations, with the objective of improving and maintaining health and safety for everyone at work in the country. IOSH will introduce international best practices in the work place, which will facilitate in the improvement of productivity and boost the economy through fewer cases of work-related injury and ill-health.

Speaking at the event, Peter McNair, chair of IOSH Oman said, "This is a historic event for the Institution and we are honoured to have the patronage of Her Excellency Dr Muna for this launch. This is the recognition of the hard work already carried out by the Oman Branch committee in building links with organisations here, and emphasises the commitment the Ministry has to good occupational safety and health."

During the opening ceremony, IOSH also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Oman Society of Contractors (OSC), just before the winners of the OSC awards were announced by its chief executive, Salim Talib Al Sheedi.

McNair added: "Today's event also underscores a significant development in a long working relationship between IOSH and Oman Society of Contractors, as it reflects the cementing of that bond and establishes an agreement that we will work together closely in the future, to encourage and educate Omani workplaces on the importance of international health and safety practices."

Al Sheedi, CEO of OSC, who is also sponsoring the event, said: "We consider the signing of the MOU between IOSH and Oman Society of Contractors (OSC) as a great step towards boosting implementation and practice of occupational health and safety (OHS) by the industrial sectors in the Sultanate of Oman. This agreement is not just to uphold OSC's commitment towards OHS, but is the beginning of a great journey together to champion the cause".

The newly launched branch of IOSH in Oman will initiate significant opportunities for HSE/OHS professionals from the construction, oil and gas, healthcare and other industries from the region, to find meaningful and practical interaction on vital issues related to health and safety. IOSH's practice is in-line with the ministerial decision 286 of 2008, which has played a vital role in setting a robust health and safety framework for the Sultanate.

IOSH will offer resources and guidance to help industries reduce their fatalities, injuries and incidents of ill-health. In addition to educating and improving skills and knowledge within the workplace, IOSH will work with schools as well as support professionals, to ensure and endorse a healthy work environment, during Oman's phase of growth and development.

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About IOSH
IOSH is the Chartered body for health and safety professionals. With more than 42,500 members in 100 countries, IOSH is the world's biggest professional health and safety organisation. The institution sets standards, and supports, develops and connects members with resources, guidance, events and training. IOSH is 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.

For more information about the IOSH Oman Branch, please visit www.IOSH.co.uk/omanbranch.

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© Press Release 2013