Tamkeen (Labour Fund) has identified the need for more occupational health and safety (OHS) field experts and has initiated a three-year programme to train 200 Bahrainis in this field.

With Bahrain's economy diversifying in many directions, new industries and traditional ones have been experiencing growth and diversification. Alongside the modernisation, new standards are being set for safety and quality.

The training will be provided by Arabian East Training Centre (AETC) which won a public tender to provide the service, based on its expertise and facilities.

A contract appointing AETC for the job was signed between Tamkeen's chief executive Abdulellah Al Qassimi and AETC's managing director Hassan Ali at the Tamkeen premises opn Thursday.

"This initiative is part of our efforts at Tamkeen to identify new careers and equip Bahrainis with the skills and world-class training that will give them an entry into the field of occupational health and safety," said Al Qassimi.

"World-over, workplace and occupational safety standards are being raised in light of new technology and the 21st century approach to employees' well-being.

"In Bahrain, the government has pledged to continue improving OHS standards through regular inspections, checks and guidance.

"Companies too are investing in OHS initiatives including the appointment of dedicated and trained professionals to track their workplace OHS standards and ensure its safety."

Tamkeen believes that Bahrainis who are trained in OHS work could build excellent careers as safety officers, inspectors and managers, as health, safety and environment co-ordinators and as behavioural-based safety specialists.

At present, there are very few Bahrainis qualified to work in this specialised area.

"The globalisation of the workplace and of business means that Bahraini companies can increase their business by complying with international OHS standards as required by big-ticket projects," said Ali.

"We intend to target Bahrainis holding secondary school certificates in the science or technical stream who pass an admission test and interview."

"Our course begins in February and will cover health & safety application and standards, English language, IT and math."

The targeted 200 trainees will include on-job training and hands-on guidance from AETC faculty who are highly qualified health, safety and environment professionals with more than 15 years of experience.

Upon completion, Bahraini OHS professionals can expect a minimum starting wage of BD350 ($928). Applications for the course are available on both Tamkeen's and the AETC's websites.-TradeArabia News Service