HSE Engineer at the Riyadh Metro Project
What I Learned as an HSE Engineer at the Riyadh Metro Project
Working as an HSE Engineer at the Riyadh Metro Project has been a transformative experience, shaping my professional skills, leadership approach, and understanding of safety at an unprecedented scale. Over the years, I have gained valuable insights that go beyond technical knowledge—lessons that define the true essence of Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) management.
1. Safety is Not Just a Regulation—It’s a Culture
One of the biggest lessons I learned is that HSE is not just about compliance; it’s about creating a culture. Rules and policies are important, but without a genuine commitment to safety from everyone on-site, risks will always exist. Encouraging proactive safety behaviors and fostering a sense of accountability among workers and management is the foundation of a strong safety culture.
2. Leadership in HSE Means Taking Ownership
HSE is not just about conducting inspections and enforcing regulations—it’s about leading by example. Taking ownership of safety challenges, ensuring that risks are addressed before they escalate, and influencing teams to prioritize safety has been crucial. I learned that true HSE leadership means guiding others to see safety as a shared responsibility.
3. Zero LTI is Achievable with the Right Approach
Achieving Zero Lost Time Injuries (LTI) on every line and site I managed wasn’t just a goal—it was a standard I upheld through strict risk management, proactive hazard identification, and strong safety engagement with workers. Effective implementation of control measures and continuous monitoring were key to this success.
4. Effective Communication Saves Lives
The Riyadh Metro Project involved a diverse workforce, with different nationalities, languages, and safety mindsets. I learned that clear, simple, and direct communication is crucial in preventing misunderstandings that could lead to accidents. Toolbox talks, safety briefings, and training sessions had to be adapted to ensure that every worker understood the safety protocols.
5. Data-Driven Safety Management Enhances Performance
One of the most valuable insights I gained was the importance of using data analytics to improve HSE performance. By analyzing incident trends, near misses, and hazard reports, I was able to predict potential risks and implement preventive actions before accidents happened. Safety is not just about reacting to incidents—it’s about using data to drive continuous improvement.
6. Emergency Preparedness Saves Lives
No matter how strict safety measures are, emergencies can still occur. That’s why drills, training, and quick response planning are critical. The difference between a minor incident and a disaster is how well-prepared a team is to handle emergencies. I learned to always expect the unexpected and ensure that workers were trained to react effectively in high-risk situations.
7. Collaboration is Key in Large-Scale Projects
HSE success is not achieved in isolation. I learned the importance of collaborating with different departments, contractors, and stakeholders to ensure that safety was embedded in every stage of the project. Coordinating with engineering, operations, and management teams was essential in aligning safety objectives with project goals.
Conclusion: Safety is a Responsibility, Not Just a Job
Being an HSE Engineer at the Riyadh Metro Project taught me that safety is not just about policies and inspections—it’s about leadership, communication, and commitment. Protecting lives requires a proactive approach, continuous improvement, and a strong safety culture.
This journey has reinforced my belief that safety is a mindset, a discipline, and most importantly, a responsibility that every individual must uphold.
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