Unlock access to Thinkers360 AI to fast-track your search for analysts and influencers.
This feature is available for Enterprise Lite and Enterprise Members Only.
You have been temporarily restricted. Please be more thoughtful when adding content for your portfolio. Your portfolio and digital media kit and should be reflective of the professional image you wish to convey. Accounts may be temporarily restricted if we receive reports of spamming or if the system detects excessive entries.
Membership
Publish your original ideas on the Thinkers360 platform!
This feature is available for Pro and Pro-Plus Members Only.
Speaker Bureau functionality whereby individuals can be featured speakers within our Speaker Bureau service and enterprises can find and work with speakers.
This feature is available for Pro, Pro-Plus, Premium and Enterprise Members Only.
Highlight your featured products and services within our company directory for enhanced visibility to active B2B buyers worldwide. This feature is available for Pro, Pro Plus, Premium and Enterprise Members Only.
Contribute to the Thinkers360 Member Blog and have your thought leadership featured on our web site, newsletter and social channels. Reach our opt-in B2B thought leader community and influencer marketplace with over 100M followers on social media combined!
You’ve reached your daily limit for entering quotes. Please only add personally-authored content which is reflective of your digital media kit and thought leadership portfolio.
Thinkers360 Content Library
For full access to the Thinkers360 content library, please join our Content Plan or become a contributor by posting your own personally-authored content into the system via Add Publication or Import Publication.
Dashboard
Unlock your personalized dashboard including metrics for your member blogs and press releases as well as all the features and benefits of our member plans!
Interested in getting your own thought leader profile? Get Started Today.
Dr. Elie Daher
CEO, Founder at ReImagining Leadership Circle
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Future-Ready Leadership | Organizational & Executive Transformation | Inspiring Others to “Unlearn to Relearn”
"The future belongs to those who embrace transformation—leaders who unlearn, relearn, and evolve to meet the challenges of a fast-changing world. Leadership is no longer about titles—it’s about shaping the future."
Dr. Elie Daher is a global transformation strategist, seasoned CEO, thought leader, best-selling author, and host of the Reimagining You podcast. With 39 years of experience across industries, cultures, and economies, he has built a reputation for transforming leadership, future-proofing organizations, and guiding executives through reinvention.
A champion of Excellence in Leadership, Dr. Daher helps leaders master leadership transformation, business reinvention, and cultural adaptability. His unlearn to relearn philosophy is designed for executives and entrepreneurs navigating AI-driven disruption, multigenerational workforce shifts, and cross-border business dynamics.
Throughout his career, Dr. Daher has held key roles as CEO, CMO, EVP, and executive coach, shaping industries such as technology, oil & gas, FMCG, and enterprise solutions. As a Harvard Business Review Advisory Council member and Founding Board Member of MGSCC – Middle East, he mentors leaders worldwide.
His best-selling books, Reimagining Leadership and Reimagining You, provide practical blueprints for leadership and career transformation:
- Reimagining Leadership equips executives with strategies to lead with agility, innovation, and foresight.
- Reimagining You offers a 10-step roadmap to breaking free from traditional career paths and building a future of impact.
Expertise:
- Transforming Leadership – Cultivating agility, innovation, and future-ready leadership.
- Transforming Organizations – Shaping resilient, high-performing companies.
- Transforming Mindsets – Driving reinvention and multi-generational leadership strategies.
- Cross-Border Influence – Navigating global leadership and negotiation.
Through the Reimagining You podcast, Dr. Daher continues to inspire leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals to embrace transformation.
Beyond business, he is an adventurer—exploring mountains, islands, and endurance sports with the same tenacity he brings to leadership. His philosophy? Stay bold, stay curious, and always lead forward.
Available For: Advising, Authoring, Consulting, Speaking Travels From: Dubai, EU
Speaking Topics: Cultural Intelligence and Adaptability, Innovative Leadership, Executive Empowerment, Future-Ready Skills, Personal Branding Influence
Tags: Coaching, Digital Transformation, Leadership
Prompt Engineering
Blockchain Council
January 12, 2024
The Prompt Engineer Certification by the Blockchain Council is a specialized program designed to equip professionals with the skills needed to craft effective prompts for AI language models. This certification provides in-depth knowledge of AI prompt engineering, focusing on optimizing AI outputs for various applications. Participants learn to design prompts that enhance AI accuracy, relevance, and contextual understanding. The course also explores the intersection of AI and blockchain technology, offering insights into secure and transparent AI solutions. Upon completion, certified prompt engineers are well-prepared to contribute to advanced AI-driven projects across industries.
Tags: Coaching, Digital Transformation, Leadership
25 Academic Whitepapers
Top 8 Digital Safety Trends in Oil and Gas in 2023
Dr Elie Daher
October 06, 2023
Oil and Gas is one of the most hazardous industries to work in. From exposure to toxic gases to working at dangerous temperatures, lone worker management to fall detection, there are a host of safety issues that are common to the industry. It is also an industry undergoing a revolutionary digital transformation. With changes, come challenges and new opportunities. This paper looks at the top digital safety trends that are taking place within the industry.
The top trends that will be investigated in this paper include:
Real time safety solutions (RTLS): Real-time location services have re-defined personnel monitoring. From real time access control to personnel monitoring, geo-fencing to vehicle collision avoidance, real-time location tracking has a wide range of applications that can be used to make the industry safer.
Remote monitoring: Remote monitoring technologies are one of the most adopted digital technologies used by Oil and Gas companies around the world. From a safety perspective, remote monitoring has changed the game for confined space monitoring. Gas monitors, breathing air apparatus can all now be monitored remotely reducing the number of onsite personnel required contributing to a safer and more efficient worksite.
Connected worker solutions: Networked devices are transforming lone workers to connected workers. Through a comprehensive solution of apps, industrial IIoT infrastructure and connected devices, workers can now directly communicate and connect with the command center ensuring enhanced safety for lone workers.
Smarter equipment: Equipment, devices and tools are also getting smarter. All traditional equipment can be ‘smarter’ by using data, AI and IIoT technology to work with each other to revolutionize their role in safety.
AI solutions: AI is being increasingly used in Oil and Gas for a range of safety solutions. Computer Vision for example has a versatile range of applications that ensure safer workers. From PPE compliance to fall detection, Computer Vision and other AI technologies can be used to ensure safer Oil and Gas workers.
Automation of hazardous and high-risk jobs: Robots and drones have been taking over high-risk jobs to keep workers safe.
Training in the digital era: Better trained workers are safer workers. With the rapid rise in digital technologies, there are a growing number of digital and hybrid training and coaching sessions that are becoming more popular. AI is also being increasingly used in training to ensure a highly trained workforce.
Digital twins: More organizations are investing in digital twins to detect, predict and even help prevent incidents from happening in the real world by better understanding their impacts in the digital world by gaining a clearer comprehension of their consequences in the digital sphere.
Tags: Future of Work, Health and Safety, Innovation
From Lone Workers to Connected Workers – How Technology is Transforming Safety
Dr Elie Daher
October 31, 2022
Every day, more than a billion workers are out on their own for part or all of their workday, with no colleagues to turn to in an emergency or collaborate on a task.
This paper takes a detailed look into a new lone worker solution that ensures that lone workers are protected and get their job done easier.
The new lone worker solution offers a suite of services that transform the lone worker to a connected worker. Key among these services include:
AV communication: The lone worker solution provides workers with full audio and visual communications capabilities allowing them to always stay in contact with technical operators.
Automated incident management: Loaded with pre-designed workflows and a notification engine designed to get help where and when needed, this speeds up reaction times in emergencies.
Proactive alerts: Lone workers often work in remote and isolated locations making it even more crucial to understand their conditions while there is still time to help. Proactive safety alerts include hazardous work check-ins and fall detection alerts.
Tags: Future of Work, Health and Safety, Innovation
Redefining Confined Space Safety: A Case Study
Dr Elie Daher
April 19, 2019
Confined Space work is one of the most challenging aspects of a maintenance project. Accidents can occur if potential hazards such as fire, elevated temperatures, gas, fumes, vapor, lack of oxygen or limitations to movement are not properly managed. This considerable level of danger calls for extra safety measures that consist of a safety watch who monitors the entry and maintains communication with the workers inside. However, the duties of the attendant are restricted to the outside of the vessel. So how does safety extend to the activities inside the confined space?
A solution was designed that combines gas detection, video surveillance, two-way communication, access control and a command center to improve safety while improving productivity and reducing costs. If an injury occurs inside the vessel, under existing processes, the Safety Attendant is alerted by another worker or via a lack of communication with the injured worker. The attendant then radios for a rescue team. With this innovation, owners no longer require a safety attendant and the safety operators monitoring the command center can see the issue and communicate directly with the injured worker. First responders or rescue team are alerted directly.
Through the combination of real-time gas detection, cameras with day/night vision installed outside and inside vessels, video recording and two-way communication, the innovation delivers and stores data useful in alerting workers of hazardous environments, providing video evidence of safe behaviors, enables operators to see work inside the vessels real time, and stores valuable video and overlaid gas data logs to protect against future liabilities. The system can be utilized in trainings or investigations, enables personnel in the vessel to communicate with personnel offsite through the command center, allows for remote correction of safety practices, controls access to the confined space or facilitates faster response to emergencies. The innovation saves significant costs to owners through the elimination of safety watch and the resulting costs and liabilities of these personnel on site. Further cost savings will be achieved through smoother operation of the permit process, improved communication with workers in confined spaces, and enhancements to productivity.
A product of collaboration between technology and safety expertise, the innovation revolutionizes the role of the safety watch, enhances safety and productivity, and reduces costs for the owner. The paper will discuss examples and provide data on the potential savings resulting from the implementation of the technology. This paper will also discuss further enhancements include body cameras, monitoring of employee wellbeing and facility access control. This is the path to the technical turnaround of the future.
Public Safety and Sour Gas: A Case Study of Innovations in Public Protection and Emergency Response
Dr Elie Daher
November 07, 2016
A key Oil and Gas player required hydrogen sulfide (H2S) safety solutions for their project in Iraq. The operator had planned a drilling operation on a rig with a high potential concentration of H2S. They realized that they needed to protect and secure two communities that consist of more than 1500 homes near the drilling site from a potential gas release. The mountainous location and tough winters required a reliable, portable and robust detection and communication system that would work in extreme weather conditions with temperatures ranging from -15°C to 52 °C. The two villages were located 5km from the worksite. The operator needed to make sure the villagers are notified of any gas readings that may pose hazards to the communities.
A cutting-edge community protection solution was implemented composed of several gas and environmental monitors linked together to control the conditions within the EPZ. The innovative perimeter monitoring solution allowed environmental conditions to be monitored online in real-time. Due to difficult terrain conditions, boosters were deployed to enhance the connection between the perimeter monitoring system and the base station.
Radio-frequency (RF) and web technologies were integrated into each platform to enable real-time transmission of data to the base unit. From the base unit, the stored data is the uploaded to a global server. This was designed in such a way to give the operator a comprehensive understanding of all the stored information.
The use of a proprietary SCADA system provided a reliable and accurate data log which could be stored and accessed online. Notifications on impending low battery life, wind speed, and direction, temperature and gas readings were provided on a real-time basis, thus helping the operator to make informed decisions to protect its assets and the community, prior, during and post any event.
Addressing The Challenges For Safety And Mobility In Facilities With Large Red Zones: A Field-testing Case Study
Dr Elie Daher
November 09, 2015
In the Middle East, a large gas reservoirs located onshore has been developed to produce sales gas, natural gas liquids, condensates and elemental sulphur. The reservoirs contain very high concentrations (23%) of toxic Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S), making it an extremely sour gas field. Based on Quantitative Risk Assessments, certain areas of the gas field facilities have been defined as red zones. These are areas where a potential exists for exposure to such high concentrations of Hydrogen Sulphide that a fatality may occur due to relatively short exposure.
Following the operator’s code of practice on management of hydrogen sulphide, large red zones were identified: all well pads in the gas gathering network and the western area of the gas plant including the receivers, slug catcher, and inlet separation, gas sweetening & condensate stabilization units. A leak from the western area would potentially create dangerous levels of toxic and flammable gas clouds within minutes. As a result, access to the red zone is controlled and only authorized and trained personnel are allowed to enter the red zone. When conducting maintenance activities, personnel must don a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) or be connected to an airline at all times.
A solution was engineered to access the large red zone and minimize breathing air consumption from SCBAs. This paper presents the field-testing results of the innovation aimed at resolving both flammability and toxicity issues while providing mobility in red zones. By integrating breathing air systems and gas monitoring systems into the overall shape and form of an explosion-proof vehicle, the transport of personnel and equipment for daily operations and maintenance in red zones has been made safer and more efficient. The technology does not interfere with any of the vehicle functions or impede the vehicle operator in performing his duties. Results of the field test indicate that the explosion-proof vehicle helps reduce personnel fatigue in large plants where there are significant distances to traverse. Direct cost savings, reduced travel time and increased personnel morale were some of the achieved results. For emergency response situations, the vehicle can extend rescue operations. At present, standard rescue operations are limited to thirty minutes due to a limited portable air supply. The vehicle carries 400 cubic feet of air as a standard, providing enough breathing air for two persons for two hours.
This is a case study of the radical innovation that provides safety and mobility in red zones. To date, it has served as a permanent H2S monitoring vehicle. It requires very little maintenance and has been found to withstand extreme weather conditions in the Middle East. With modifications, it can also serve as a dedicated emergency vehicle to rescue personnel within a toxic, potentially explosive atmosphere.
Tags: Health and Safety, Innovation, Public Relations
Qusahwira from Project to Production: Establishment of Business Processes Model
Dr Elie Daher
November 09, 2015
South East (SE) is one of the major assets in Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Petroleum Operations Ltd (ADCO)'s portfolio. Until 2013, SE was producing from fields (Asab, Sahil and Shah) and 2 new fields (Qusahwira & Mender) which were under development. The initial operation philosophy for the new fields was to have a centralized operation organization with necessary support functions at Asab and to deploy only the facility operating resources at respective fields.
Due to the change in company strategy, SQM (Shah, Qusahwira & Mender) has been spin-off from SE and a new organization was put in place while Qusahwira (QW) was moving from commissioning to production in 2013.
SQM Operation Management Team (OMT) has initiated a business transformation program to ensure required business processes were in place for the new organization to seamlessly integrate the development asset in to a producing portfolio. Assigned task force acted as a program management office and process champions were allocated within the major Level 1 (L1) processes for its implementation. Finally SQM has successfully integrated into the existing organization through implementation of necessary business process within the asset.
The paper will discuss the detailed methodology, challenges faced and the change management initiatives implemented during commissioning to production transition.
Improving Efficiencies of Short Duration Projects During Turnarounds: A Case Study on Innovative Breathing Air Solutions
Dr Elie Daher
October 20, 2015
A frequent challenge during facility shutdowns and turnarounds is the congestion of work areas. As a result, carrying out short-duration tasks such as blinding with powering pneumatic tools take much longer time due to equipment transport and set up the process. To respond to this challenge, a portable breathing air delivery unit was designed with a narrow footprint to allow quick and easy deployment even in constricted work areas.
The portable breathing air unit provides ten man-hours of breathing air and can support two users. It has a separate air tool port to power pneumatic tools. A backflow preventer ensures that air tool cannot contaminate the breathing air supply. As a safety measure, the air tool supply shuts down at 1000 psi, leaving the worker with approximately two man-hours of breathing air. To ensure that personnel have the required safety equipment and the ability to complete their assigned jobs, the unit is equipped with a platform to transport required gear to remote work areas.
The portable breathing air unit was recently put to the test by a Gas to Liquids company during its emergency facility turnaround. This is a case study for the use of such system capable of providing both breathing air and power tools in constricted work areas. During a turnaround for example, to remove a set of flange bolts from a pipe, the entire operation may take 10 minutes, but the actual operation of the air wrench may only take two minutes of that time. However, actual job tickets indicate that a 10-minute job takes a minimum of 30 minutes to one hour to complete due to the long process of deploying safety gears, breathing air systems and a separate pneumatic power source. By utilizing this portable breathing air delivery system with a dual purpose, activities such as blinding can be done more efficiently while ensuring personnel safety.
This case study discusses the significance of this innovation in improving efficiencies during turnarounds.
Reducing Delays in Document Management and Tooling Costs of Refineries and Plants: A Case Study of Risk Management Software Development
Dr Elie Daher
October 20, 2015
ENI SpA was facing a persistent challenge in one of its Italian Oil/Gas treatment plants due to the time-consuming task of equipment, personnel, and on-site operation document management that increased the tooling costs of their operations. The company decided to explore new technologies, systems and services to solve this issue and reduce associated costs. Servizi Integrati di Sicurezza Srl, part of United Safety Group, was tasked to develop a tool to facilitate all safety operations and regulatory aspects of the standard and non-standard activities.
Following the concept of Software as a Service (SaaS), a risk management software was designed to improve document release, tracking, recording, and operations management. The software was designed to allow users to manage multiple projects including bill books, law fulfilments, documents, forms, work permits, access control and any other activity-related document management. The system also allows remote control and access to documents thus serving as a monitoring tool independent of operational dynamics in the plant.
The system performed plant access management for all personnel and equipment. It provides personnel tracking for quick emergency response and has integrated Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) fixed readers and validations on computers or tablets. It stores over 100 profiled ad-hoc checklists and controls thousands of work permits every month, classified by areas, types of work, contractors, foreman, and time schedule. Using the software, the management was able to accomplish its safety management system and was able to generate reports by correlating several data and information. The software now acts as a connected business intelligence platform providing interactive views and statistics of the data for HSE management supporting Simultaneous Operations (SIMOPS) to avoid unwanted and costly operational interferences.
Prior to using this software, plant managers used separate project files focusing on specific operations such as work permits, personnel checklists, access control, etc. The result was a vast and fragmented management that increased risk exposure due to the high human activity rate. This case study shares the key metrics and costs savings of having a system that functions as a global container for safety data that allows automated actions and advanced controls.
An Analysis of Global Safety Trends in the Oil and Gas Industry - Impacts and Challenges in the Years Ahead
Dr Elie Daher
October 20, 2015
This paper examines the safety trends influencing and shaping the oil and gas industry. From rising local content requirements to increasing shortage of skilled workers, rise in unconventional Oil and Gas to an increasing number of frontier oil producing countries, the growing role of Operational Excellence and the most common causes of incidents in the Oil and Gas sector, this paper will discuss facts, figures and case studies from around the world.
The paper was developed using secondary research based on industry reports such as the International Association of Oil and Gas Producers' (IOGP) Annual Safety Performance Indicators report to provide an analysis of fatal incident rates, total recordable injury rate, and lost time injury frequency. The research also referred to country profiles published by the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) including energy outlooks, analyses and projections. Information was culled from annual reports of international oil companies, technical papers published by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) as well as white papers by industry leaders, think tank groups and consulting firms.
While the presentation offers a bird's eye view of the safety industry at large, it delves deeper into safety issues outlining the scope of the various challenges and how they influence Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) management. It highlights the importance of heeding lessons learned from catastrophic incidents as well as the adoption of industry best practices and integration of Operation Excellence into the core business operations to prevent disasters. Concerns on unconventional production and the need for regulatory frameworks in emerging countries indicate that regulatory bodies need to catch up and fast track research efforts to regulate the unprecedented growth and expansion of the industry. When taken together as a whole, the global safety trends indicate that investments on safety or the lack thereof has a huge impact on business continuity and sustainability.
This paper was developed to give safety practitioners a better overview of the challenges, opportunities, new developments and trends shaping the global Oil and Gas industry.
Tags: Health and Safety, Innovation, Business Continuity
Solving Community Protection for Inhabited Areas Surrounding a Drilling Site: A Case Study in Saudi Arabia
Dr Elie Daher
September 28, 2015
A key Oil and Gas player required H2S safety solutions for their new onshore drilling project. A major challenge was protecting a community of approximately 500 homes situated within the 5km Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ). Preventing the potentially fatal consequences of an H2S release was of the utmost importance.
A cutting-edge community protection solution was implemented composed of eight units of gas and environmental monitors linked together to control the conditions within the EPZ. The innovative perimeter monitoring solution allowed environmental conditions to be monitored online in real-time. Training was done to ensure that the operator was supplied with qualified and trained H2S safety personnel and all other safety personnel during critical operations. Equipment such as gas detections system, handheld monitors, and breathing air packs were provided to ensure that all safety aspects are covered in this critical operation.
The customization and installation of a reliable, online perimeter monitoring system allowed continuous data stream that made remote monitoring of the vicinity, based on both RF and web technology available for instant tracking and monitoring. Real-time information accessible from anywhere in the world allowed the operator to be aware and be prepared for any emergencies that might occur. SMS notifications were also programmed in case of any emergency to ensure a prompt response. The system also provided a reliable data log for future analysis. The fact that the operator took considerable measures to look out for the community's safety helped improve relations with the public. Members of the affected community felt assured by the degree of precaution implemented, knowing that they would be warned promptly in the event of an emergency.
This case study presents an analysis of conventional and newer community protection systems and discusses in detail the significance of this innovation in dealing with rapidly expanding production near communities. The case study outlines how to make communities feel safe and how to conduct EPZ monitoring efficiently using state-of-the-art technologies and customizing equipment to suit unique worksite requirements.
Addressing Gaps in Facilities Safety and Disaster Management: How Personnel Can Move From Muster Point to the Safe Zone in a High H2S Concentration Environment
Research Gate
February 02, 2015
The shift towards more challenging gas extraction development projects requires a deep understanding of the risks and challenges of operating in sour gas fields. While facilities are equipped with gas detection monitors, the risk of unexpected toxic gas release, pipe ruptures or leaks will always be greater among plant personnel. Oil and gas facility personnel are trained to respond to emergencies. They know the layout of the facility and associated emergency procedures to include - escape routes, muster points, communication methods, and appropriate response to alarms. However, small group escape techniques using typical escape equipment may no longer be sufficient.
Expedited Country Startup with a Large Scale Mobilization of CO2 And H2S Equipment and Services for a Major Oil and Gas Company in Latin America
Dr Elie Daher
October 27, 2014
The process of establishing a company and operating facilities within Brazil to support a large-scale operation, along with mobilizing 10 offshore packages of CO2 and H2S protection equipment and developing safety professionals, within a tight time frame of 90 days, is a significant challenge. Brazil regulations are unique and distinct, thus requiring much work in establishing a local company with an approved operating facility. The processing periods for attaining document approvals added to time restraint challenges.
The assembly, shipping and importation of the safety equipment had to be managed simultaneously. To ensure that equipment were in compliance with in-country local requirements, a thorough understanding of the rules and regulations was necessary to minimize delays during shipping and importation. Requirements for personnel dictated that a local content had to be in place. Thus, local human resource policies in recruiting, remuneration, development, and termination needed to be understood.
In order to tackle these challenges, a Brazil Task Force composed of multi-cultural senior executives was formed leveraging the support services and field personnel from all corners of the world. Initially, the Brazil Task Force conducted a country needs assessment to identify all the requirements, and to get ‘on the ground’ feel for the business environment. Subsequent to their return, they formulated a strategic implementation plan.
A considerable financial commitment was poured to establish a solid, reliable infrastructure within Brazil, and to procure the required specialized equipment and personnel. A local entity was promptly established in Rio de Janeiro to handle all the legal and financial requirements. The company engaged consultants from several specialized fields to leverage local knowledge and experience. They provided crucial advice on startup of operations specifically on the process of obtaining licenses and permits as well setting up contracts with required local suppliers.
The required safety equipment was assembled leveraging its outstanding manufacturer relations for the prompt delivery of the large volume of equipment for this project. The equipment were documented and packaged efficiently to allow for ease of transport and understanding at customs clearance.
This paper takes a detailed look at the various challenges faced, lessons learned and the key factors that contributed to this project's resounding success.
Ensuring The Safety Of Onsite Personnel And Neighboring Community During Workover And Well-testing Activities With A High H2S Risk Potential – A Case Study
Dr Elie Daher
October 27, 2014
OMV Petrom had a planned workover and well-testing activity on a well with high potential concentration of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) located 200 meters from a neighboring community. To ensure safety during the workover and well-testing activity, a leading oil and gas group in Central Europe undertook a careful preparation of processes, systems and its personnel. Considering the proximity of the wellsite to the community, they also needed to inform and educate the surrounding community.
Servizi Integrati di Sicurezza (S.I.S. S.r.l.), part of United Safety International Group was given the task to ensure the safety of personnel and neighboring community through effective preventive actions including extensive H2S training and prevailing wind monitoring. A site-specific Emergency Response Plan (ERP) was developed that defined the coverage of the Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ). Wind speed and direction was monitored for a period of four months prior to the drilling activity which allowed the identification of high risks areas in the event of a gas release.
A dedicated wireless H2S and sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas detection system was installed including a general alarm system for public awareness in case of a public evacuation. Rovers were dispatched continuously to monitor remote areas of the EPZ. The safety solutions company conducted H2S drills, man down simulations, and public evacuations in coordination with the operator and the local community. Prior to commencement of drilling activities, nearly 400 training certificates were released to personnel, contractors and sub-contractors.
This paper discusses lessons learned and best practices of emergency planning and management of the EPZ as critical elements of drilling operations. It highlights the continuous improvement of EPZ management methods and discusses the importance of engaging affected communities and residents to build confidence, partnerships and ultimately boost a company's public image. The paper also demonstrates the impact of corporate citizenship and responsible care practices beyond the immediate community.
Addressing Safety Challenges of Operating in Sour Gas Fields: A Case Study from the Middle East
Dr Elie Daher
September 22, 2014
In the Middle East, there is a gas field that is one of the most challenging gas extraction development projects in the world. The field has a hydrogen sulfide (H2S) concentration in excess of 20%. The field was discovered over 40 years ago, but due to the absence of appropriate technologies to safely extract the reservoirs, field development had been sidelined for several decades. With the advances in oilfield technologies and processes, the field operator commenced field development a few years back. The operator protects its facilities from H2S risk by a comprehensive air management process that uses leading industry gas monitoring and protection systems. During the project design phase, the emphasis focused on fixed facilities and protection at these facilities. However, the possibility of an unexpected gas release and exposure in areas away from the fixed facilities and while in transit within the field soon became apparent. The challenge was to provide for the safety of personnel from the time they entered the field to the time they exited it.
An oilfield services company identified the potential risk that possible H2S exposure represented to the safety of personnel while in transit through this field. To address the challenge, the company sought the help of an innovative safety solutions provider. After a series of discussions between the safety solutions provider and the oilfield services company, it became apparent that there was a need to develop a solution that would provide early-warning gas detection while on the move, ensure immediate availability of breathing air protection, and allow communication and documentation of hazards and air status within a crew transportation vehicle. The resulting solution was a vehicle gas protection system (VGPS) with an integrated gas detection system and a proprietary breathing air management system that enables users to transit safely through such terrain.
Safe Work Practices and Rescue Planning for Vertical Column Work during Turnaround: A Case Study
Dr Elie Daher
March 17, 2014
The process of establishing a company and operating facilities within Brazil to support a large-scale operation, along with mobilizing 10 offshore packages of CO2 and H2S protection equipment and developing safety professionals, within a tight time frame of 90 days, is a significant challenge. Brazil regulations are unique and distinct, thus requiring much work in establishing a local company with an approved operating facility. The processing periods for attaining document approvals added to time restraint challenges.
The assembly, shipping and importation of the safety equipment had to be managed simultaneously. To ensure that equipment were in compliance with in-country local requirements, a thorough understanding of the rules and regulations was necessary to minimize delays during shipping and importation. Requirements for personnel dictated that a local content had to be in place. Thus, local human resource policies in recruiting, remuneration, development, and termination needed to be understood.
In order to tackle these challenges, a Brazil Task Force composed of multi-cultural senior executives was formed leveraging the support services and field personnel from all corners of the world. Initially, the Brazil Task Force conducted a country needs assessment to identify all the requirements, and to get ‘on the ground’ feel for the business environment. Subsequent to their return, they formulated a strategic implementation plan.
A considerable financial commitment was poured to establish a solid, reliable infrastructure within Brazil, and to procure the required specialized equipment and personnel. A local entity was promptly established in Rio de Janeiro to handle all the legal and financial requirements. The company engaged consultants from several specialized fields to leverage local knowledge and experience. They provided crucial advice on startup of operations specifically on the process of obtaining licenses and permits as well setting up contracts with required local suppliers.
The required safety equipment was assembled leveraging its outstanding manufacturer relations for the prompt delivery of the large volume of equipment for this project. The equipment were documented and packaged efficiently to allow for ease of transport and understanding at customs clearance.
This paper takes a detailed look at the various challenges faced, lessons learned and the key factors that contributed to this project's resounding success.
Ensuring Safety Of Residents In An Emergency Planning Zone While Maintaining Sensitive Public Relations With The Affected Residents - Best Practices Shared.
Dr Elie Daher
January 19, 2014
Establishing an Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ) map lays the foundation for a successful Emergency Response Plan. A safety company was tasked with the responsibility of ensuring the safety of residents living in a neighboring community where potentially hazardous drilling activity in a critical sour well with high H2S concentrations and potential high release rates was about to commence. The safety company was responsible for managing and monitoring the EPZ while constantly updating residents about progress on the drilling activity.
An EPZ of 5.8 kilometers and an awareness zone of 11.6 kilometers were identified; the area of management contained one town and two hamlets of roughly 2000 inhabitants. To effectively monitor and ensure the safety of residents within the EPZ, the safety company dispatched and managed close to 100 onsite personnel. This large team was responsible for manning roadblocks, monitoring the various zones within the EZP, and maintaining buses on standby to evacuate low mobility groups.
Another key element of this project was the successful handling of crucial public relations to defuse and manage potentially very tense situations. The sensitive nature of the issue required careful, consistent and regular communications as residents needed to be constantly updated on the impending drilling operations. To handle the daunting community relations issues effectively, the safety company deployed a number of ‘rovers’ to monitor and communicate with the public through house visits. A call centre was also set up for residents to reach out for more information.
The project was so effectively managed that it even superseded the expectations of the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the drilling project. This paper will discuss in-depth details, learnings, insights and the various factors that were responsible for making this Emergency Response Planning project such a complete success.
Excellence in Safety Performance Has No Multicultural Barriers: A Case Study
Dr Elie Daher
March 18, 2013
With the expanding global workforce, companies are faced with several barriers to any standardization or centralization plans. Challenges like language difference, local differences, interdependencies, size and maturity and mode of operation can create strong barriers to an effective rollout of a standard or a centralized process.
In 1998, United Safety started operation in Angola with a Canadian workforce. The strategy and intention was to nationalize as fast as possible to sustain a long term presence in the country and to operate effectively. For the first few years, the company had to go through a steep learning curve, getting educated on the differences between the cultures, the challenges of language and the various behaviour safety styles in terms of expectations, tolerance of risk and other safety factors observed by the local workforce.
In addition to the numerous practical challenges, establishment of a HSE culture and practices needs to take into account the culturally different ways of dealing with authority, risks, and individual responsibility, amongst a number of other factors. A lack of cultural competence can in itself lead to miscommunication and misunderstandings, which in turn can cause dangerous situations and accidents.
As the company core business is to provide safety solutions to its customers, it is critical to ensure that the company standards or work practices are persevered and applied irrespective of differences.
Through a rigorous process of recruiting, competency assessment, training, coaching and most importantly cultural understanding and exchange, the company managed to ramp up on their national workforce replacing all expatriate rig personnel in five years and replacing all their coordinators, quality control and office staff including the first General Manager in the next five years.
This case study discusses a successful implementation of standards and centralized processes in Angola to a national workforce, displacing progressively an expatriate community and getting them accepted by the customers. This paper also attempts to share those lessons and discusses failures, consequences and rewards.
Gaps in Companies HSE Onboarding Programs: Assessment and Remedy
Dr Elie Daher
March 18, 2013
A key Oil and Gas player required hydrogen sulfide (H2S) safety solutions for their project in Iraq. The operator had planned a drilling operation on a rig with a high potential concentration of H2S. They realized that they needed to protect and secure two communities that consist of more than 1500 homes near the drilling site from a potential gas release. The mountainous location and tough winters required a reliable, portable and robust detection and communication system that would work in extreme weather conditions with temperatures ranging from -15°C to 52 °C. The two villages were located 5km from the worksite. The operator needed to make sure the villagers are notified of any gas readings that may pose hazards to the communities.
A cutting-edge community protection solution was implemented composed of several gas and environmental monitors linked together to control the conditions within the EPZ. The innovative perimeter monitoring solution allowed environmental conditions to be monitored online in real-time. Due to difficult terrain conditions, boosters were deployed to enhance the connection between the perimeter monitoring system and the base station.
Radio-frequency (RF) and web technologies were integrated into each platform to enable real-time transmission of data to the base unit. From the base unit, the stored data is the uploaded to a global server. This was designed in such a way to give the operator a comprehensive understanding of all the stored information.
The use of a proprietary SCADA system provided a reliable and accurate data log which could be stored and accessed online. Notifications on impending low battery life, wind speed, and direction, temperature and gas readings were provided on a real-time basis, thus helping the operator to make informed decisions to protect its assets and the community, prior, during and post any event.
With the expanding global workforce, companies are increasingly faced with misalignment between the HSE competencies acquired during the initial onboarding program for the new comers and the competencies required during the first 18 months of their assignment in the field.
Lifting, slinging and pressure handling are some of the tasks that new field personnel are required to do in their daily job assignment by new personnel. New field personnel are assisting in slinging tools and baskets without proper safety training on slinging or proper procedures to detect missing competencies required in slinging. Also new personnel are handling pressure vessels or are required to work in pressure areas without proper permitting. Some companies are reporting that more than 65% of their accidents or near misses are happening to new field personnel within the first 18 months of their field assignment. Most reported accidents and near misses involve extreme injuries. The field is relying on the training department to ensure that new personnel are adequately trained and on the HSE group to ensure that the HSE competencies required in the field assignment are covered during the on boarding.
This case study discusses the improvement process covering assessments, field observations, job safety analysis and possible remedies.
Safety Culture Maturity Model: A Process Worth Implementing?
Dr Elie Daher
March 18, 2013
Safety culture has become a prevalent concern as recent incidents pointed to the lack of safe behavior or attitude. Organizations are struggling to improve their safety culture in a pragmatic way. Maturity is defined as an evolutionary improvement path from an ad hoc, immature process to a mature, disciplined process. It establishes a yardstick against which it is possible to judge, in a repeatable way, the maturity of an organization's planning process and compare it to the state of the practice of the industry.
The maturity model concept was initially developed by the Software Engineering Institute (SEI) as a mechanism to improve the way software is built and maintained. The model provides organisations with a five level process to assist them in developing their software engineering practices. The five levels are Initial, Repeatable, Defined, Managed and Optimising.
The safety culture maturity model was initially developed by Dr Mark Fleming, Chartered Psychologist in 2001. Ten elements were documented:
Management commitment and visibility
Communication
Productivity versus safety
Learning organisation
Safety resources
Participation
Shared perceptions about safety
Trust
Industrial relations and job satisfaction
Training
This paper attempts to explore the adequacy of the maturity model to Oil and gas companies and researches the published various implementations to identify the benefits of such maturity model. Some obvious benefits are a provision of known Maturity Level in relation to the safety culture, with recommendations on how to improve and move from one level to another.
Managing One of the Biggest Turnarounds/Shutdowns - Approach and Lessons Learnt
Dr Elie Daher
November 11, 2012
A frequent challenge during facility shutdowns and turnarounds is the congestion of work areas. As a result, carrying out short-duration tasks such as blinding with powering pneumatic tools take much longer time due to equipment transport and set up the process. To respond to this challenge, a portable breathing air delivery unit was designed with a narrow footprint to allow quick and easy deployment even in constricted work areas.
The portable breathing air unit provides ten man-hours of breathing air and can support two users. It has a separate air tool port to power pneumatic tools. A backflow preventer ensures that air tool cannot contaminate the breathing air supply. As a safety measure, the air tool supply shuts down at 1000 psi, leaving the worker with approximately two man-hours of breathing air. To ensure that personnel have the required safety equipment and the ability to complete their assigned jobs, the unit is equipped with a platform to transport required gear to remote work areas.
The portable breathing air unit was recently put to the test by a Gas to Liquids company during its emergency facility turnaround. This is a case study for the use of such system capable of providing both breathing air and power tools in constricted work areas. During a turnaround for example, to remove a set of flange bolts from a pipe, the entire operation may take 10 minutes, but the actual operation of the air wrench may only take two minutes of that time. However, actual job tickets indicate that a 10-minute job takes a minimum of 30 minutes to one hour to complete due to the long process of deploying safety gears, breathing air systems and a separate pneumatic power source. By utilizing this portable breathing air delivery system with a dual purpose, activities such as blinding can be done more efficiently while ensuring personnel safety.
This case study discusses the significance of this innovation in improving efficiencies during turnarounds.
A major IOC planned its biggest turnaround in its history in a heavy oil up-grader / Refinery in North America.
The major challenge was to ensure that safety aspects on the project are properly managed with over 3500 workers on site. To break this challenge down into manageable chunks such as ramping up to get over 300 safety personnel in a short time, ensuring training and permitting for over 3500 workers, deploying effective and adequate Gas Detection systems and monitoring, ensuring adequate supply and with the right amounts of breathing air to manage escapes or working under air in critical places during the shutdown and Confined Space Works where it is required with proper permitting, safety watch and effective rescue plans.
To execute this massive task, a proactive approach has to be utilized with a very early planning cycle to ensure adequate sourcing, surveying, centralized dispatching, mitigating potential risks and communicating effectively with all stakeholders and contractors. This approach has produced some tangible benefits to the project, namely an improved tracking of equipment and manpower, streamlined delivery process, enabled accurate and timely reporting to contracts and to client reps.
This paper shares some key statistics on this project like number of safety personnel deployed ( over 300), number of specialized safety equipment used (over 1200), number of jobs dispatched (over 3000), number of asset shrinkage ( No downtime), no LTI, and a total estimated savings on total safety spent of over 1 Million Dollars.
In addition, this paper aims at sharing some of the lessons learnt around project management, planning and communication.
Turnaround / Shutdown Best Practice of Centralized Dispatch, Distribution and Qa/Qc of Safety Services
Dr Elie Daher
November 11, 2012
A key Oil and Gas player required H2S safety solutions for their new onshore drilling project. A major challenge was protecting a community of approximately 500 homes situated within the 5km Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ). Preventing the potentially fatal consequences of an H2S release was of the utmost importance.
A cutting-edge community protection solution was implemented composed of eight units of gas and environmental monitors linked together to control the conditions within the EPZ. The innovative perimeter monitoring solution allowed environmental conditions to be monitored online in real-time. Training was done to ensure that the operator was supplied with qualified and trained H2S safety personnel and all other safety personnel during critical operations. Equipment such as gas detections system, handheld monitors, and breathing air packs were provided to ensure that all safety aspects are covered in this critical operation.
The customization and installation of a reliable, online perimeter monitoring system allowed continuous data stream that made remote monitoring of the vicinity, based on both RF and web technology available for instant tracking and monitoring. Real-time information accessible from anywhere in the world allowed the operator to be aware and be prepared for any emergencies that might occur. SMS notifications were also programmed in case of any emergency to ensure a prompt response. The system also provided a reliable data log for future analysis. The fact that the operator took considerable measures to look out for the community's safety helped improve relations with the public. Members of the affected community felt assured by the degree of precaution implemented, knowing that they would be warned promptly in the event of an emergency.
This case study presents an analysis of conventional and newer community protection systems and discusses in detail the significance of this innovation in dealing with rapidly expanding production near communities. The case study outlines how to make communities feel safe and how to conduct EPZ monitoring efficiently using state-of-the-art technologies and customizing equipment to suit unique worksite requirements.
In shutdowns and turnarounds there are three groups interacting together during the event. The operation team (owners who get the equipment ready to work on), the mechanical maintenance team (typically made up of various contractors who perform the work) and the shared services team that support both of the above in getting their tasks completed, one of which is Safety Services.
Items such as, Breathing air delivery, gas detection/testing, confined space entry monitoring, high angle rescue and other constitute the main bulk of the shared safety services typically used on site during the shutdowns and turnarounds.
In most places, these services are thought of as extra requirement and as a cost center, although necessary and supported, safety isn't viewed as one of the productivity tools in a turnaround. They are typically left to the contractors to manage independently or in isolation creating redundancy in the amount of equipment available, incompatibility in the variety of brands and systems and duplication of efforts resulting in delays in tasks and a general poor perception of safety.
This paper demonstrates the effective use of a system of a a QA/QC process and a centralized distribution and dispatch for on site safety services such as Q-Cycle, Resource Track and Site Courier of United Safety, in achieving safety goals as well as schedule productivity gains. This system and process can benefit both the owner/ operating companies as well as the general contractors as either or both can use it. It reviews an electronic method of tracking, reporting and data capture of the distribution and management of site safety services. Centralized distribution and dispatch system can manage daily needs as well as provide data for future planning. In addition, the paper covers the case study and results of this system used in a large, major IOC turnaround; how the data benefited the operator and the mechanical contracting group as well as saved time and money through service quality and inventory management.
Public Protection and Gas Monitoring; Its Impact on the Community, Environment and the Bottom Line
Dr Elie Daher
April 02, 2012
During typical well operations, production activities or processing plants, especially in sour environments, a barrier between the site and populated areas such as towns and villages is often overlooked. Operators and contractors are focusing on protecting site personnel while relying on simple general public guidelines to alert the neighboring communities. While the industry is seeing great progress towards a digital oilfield concept where monitoring of production and optimization of flow rates and fluids are remotely actuated to reduce the burden of manning the various oilfields and maximizing production of the reservoir, these concepts did not filter to the safety management of sites and to the public protection procedures that would apply on these sites.
A recent technology failure on March 6th 2011 at the Karachaganak Field resulted in a fatal outcome1. This incident occurred in March 2011, where one employee died and a second employee was found in a nearby hanger in a critical condition. Both employees were conducting cleaning works at the time of the incident. Individual protection gear, a gas indicator and special safety instructions all failed to save the life of the contractor's employee from Karachaganak's fatal atmosphere during the technology failure.
Village resident and leader of the village campaign for relocation, stated: "In accordance with official documents, in the event of an emergency at a well site, a plume of hydrogen sulfide could reach the village within 10–30 minutes, depending on the direction of the wind. The contractor is only obliged to notify village residents via a signal from a special tower located in the village and it is local authorities who must ensure the evacuation of residents. How this is to be conducted in such a short period of time remains unclear. Moreover, Berezovka residents themselves do not know what to do in such a situation; and what if an emission occurs at night? It is disturbing to think of the consequences that may occur in the event of an H2S situation".
Another technical failure in Canada in 2009 caused the release of 30,000 cubic meters of gas containing 6200ppm of H2S. The nearby community was not alerted until six hours after the release causing massive concern over procedures for public protection2.
This paper discusses lessons learned from the digital oilfield concepts and its applicability to remote safety monitoring and safety processes. In addition, suggestions for improvements and coordination with local villages and their authorities are also discussed.
Safety KPIs during Shutdown Turnaround - What to Measure and How to Impact the Overall Economics
Dr Elie Daher
April 02, 2012
A turnaround is a planned, periodic total or partial shutdown of a refinery process unit or facility to perform maintenance, overhaul and repair operations and to inspect, test and replace process materials and equipment. This is a time sensitive operation that requires a major expenditure and focused project management 24 hour duration. Any delays due to operational or safety issues can adversely impact the shutdown time therefore increasing costs and impacting the revenue of the facility. With a high price of services, the pressure is greater than ever to deliver an efficient turnaround with virtually no incidents and on time. Safety management plays a crucial role in the turnaround activity.
Safety ensures regulations are followed, training and certifications are completed and preventive plans are in place and enforced. It starts by safety contractor selection, followed by a proactive safety plan and a flawless and timely execution.
How do we ensure that the safety management is conducted efficiently in order to impact the bottom line of the turnaround and limit delays?
Research by Liberty Mutual Research Institue for Safety demonstrates that for every $1 invested in safety there is a $3 to $6 return on investment, and our own research tells us that for every $1 spent on "tool time", $7 is spent on service costs associate with that work. Organizations need to aim for a safety excellence culture as this contributes to profitability and benefits employees and c ommunities. Safety excellence is the result of an effective safety management process. In order to monitor safety excellence, we will illustrate a system we call "The Safety Process Map".
This paper explores the deliverables generated by this map and the value they bring to turnarounds and shutdowns. These deliverables move beyond the standard Total Recordable Incident Frequency (TRIF) or Lost Time incidents reporting by auditing conformance to policies and procedure around activities like work permits issued and Confined Space Entry (CSE). Our position is that a process that can systemically identify when and why non-conformance to policy and procedure occur offers the opportunity for proactive mitigation activities. These proactive activities act on what we believe are often the root causes of negative incidents.
Oil & Gas Competency Management: An Innovative Way to Attract, Develop, Maximize, and Retain Human Capital
Dr Elie Daher
September 20, 2011
Oil & gas investments in education are growing rapidly and becoming increasingly strategic. The capability to cultivate and expand the human capital and, at the same time, develop and respond to technological advances, has become a major factor that distinguishes operators who attract, nurture, motivate and retain their working forces from those who do not. Most oil & gas companies (especially major resource holders) are striving to keep up with the technical discipline knowledge required and to stay abreast with the advances in techniques and methods in order to perform efficiently. But is this enough? Moreover, software solutions for petrotechnical information management and digital infrastructure; exploration; reservoir characterization; production; reservoir simulation; and petroleum economics, risk, and reserves are recognized as an increasingly integral part of business operations for oil & gas companies. As a result, operators have been very receptive to educational initiatives that go beyond the basic, traditional, domain discipline classroom training sessions. We are witnessing an industry trend of developing the "new multi-skilled breed of oil & gas professionals" performing in the digital age through a complete training methods covering domain science, software applications, workflows delivered using experiential, action and immersive learning methods.
Developing the new multi-skilled breed of professionals in their disciplines requires good understanding of their current competencies in the discipline, in the targeted job function and the proficiency of the various software or technical tools that will be used to perform.
Competency management therefore becomes crucial and tit the base of every learning and development program. Current E&P Competency Management should cover comprehensive and formal needs analysis, assessment, development, and tracking system of multiple skills specifically designed for each job function whether they are geoscientists, reservoir engineers, drilling, petroleum or production It should identify individual development requirements, create personalized educational plans, and provide a learning sequence that starts teaching domain concepts and theories, including technology workshops and hands-on experience, in addition to mentoring, evaluation, and certification to ensure that learning goals translate into results on the job. The competency-based learning and development plan should help transfer knowledge from the classrooms and workshops onto working results. The program should also address the need to plan, certify, and track skill developments of technical staff.
This paper therefore intends to
Highlight the importance of the methodology used when carrying out competency management to develop professionals in their disciplines as well as the related technologies, and
Go over a few practical case studies, analyzing how E&P organizations have adopted such competency management and developed adequate Learning and development plans for their employees.
Tags: Future of Work, Generative AI, Project Management
Business Process Re-Engineering in the Upstream Sector of E&P Companies. A study of Staff Perceptions and Critical Success Factors
Dr Elie Daher
June 09, 2003
This paper investigates the perceptions of staff with regard to critical success factors (CSFs) for successful Business Process Re-engineering (BPR) for the upstream sector of the Exploration and Production (E&P) companies. The conclusion and recommendations were drawn after a detailed review of literature discussing BPR implementations in various industries and using the results of a study performed on a specific implementation of a BPR project for Information Management in a mid-size E&P company.
This paper shows that the factors deemed most important for successful BPR included items such as top management support, commitment and understanding of BPR, communication, empowerment and alleviation of downsizing fears. Some unique characteristics for the E&P sector have particular bearing on the application of BPR. They include the existence of many intricate overlapping processes with multiple stakeholders, changes in policy direction or in Oil prices, the existence of a professional workforce and the existence of defined internal organizational boundaries. Suggestions on how to maximize the chances of success in the BPR are discussed.
President of Association of Corporate Executive Coaches (ACEC)
Dr. Elie Daher
October 11, 2024
Dr. Elie Daher holds a significant leadership role within the Association of Corporate Executive Coaches (ACEC), serving as its President. In this capacity, he contributes to the organization's mission of advancing executive coaching practices and fostering leadership excellence.
Beyond his executive role, Dr. Daher actively engages in thought leadership within ACEC. He authored the article titled "Embracing the Creator Economy in the Age of Exponential Disruption", featured in the October 2024 issue of Leadership Inc., ACEC's quarterly publication. This piece explores the evolving dynamics of leadership amidst rapid technological advancements and the integration of digital and physical business elements.
Dr. Daher also contributes to ACEC's global initiatives. He has been involved in the organization's efforts to expand its international presence by identifying and supporting Global Chapter Leaders. This initiative aims to broaden ACEC's reach and impact in the field of executive coaching worldwide.
Furthermore, Dr. Daher shares his insights on leadership and personal branding through various platforms, including LinkedIn, where he discusses the importance of adaptability and authenticity in modern leadership.
For more information on Dr. Elie Daher's work and contributions, you can visit his official website: dreliedaher.com.
Member and Founding Board Member of MGSCC – Middle East
Dr. Elie Daher
January 04, 2017
Dr. Elie Daher is a Founding Board Member of Marshall Goldsmith Stakeholder Centered Coaching – Middle East (MGSCC-ME). In this role, he contributes to delivering measurable leadership development solutions that empower executives and teams across the region. His involvement underscores his commitment to cultivating adaptive and impactful leadership practices.
What Will the Ideal Leader of 2030 Be Like?
Entrepreneur
December 10, 2024
In this article, we will explore the evolution of leadership and examine how younger generations, professionals, and leaders can thrive within this hybrid economy by developing key traits: adaptability quotient (AQ), emotional intelligence (EQ), creativity, and digital literacy. It also emphasizes the importance of balancing digital transformation with the human element, offering actionable insights on how to differentiate oneself and embrace AI as an enabler rather than a replacement for human potential.
Redefining leadership: Multiculturalism and flexibility
Dr. Elie Daher
November 20, 2024
Effective leadership demands inclusivity, adaptability, and multicultural understanding to navigate diverse teams and evolving workplace dynamics.
“Mastering multicultural understanding is key to building trust and long-term success. Balancing respect for local customs with an organisation’s global culture allows leaders to connect meaningfully with diverse clients and teams across the region.” – Dr Elie Daher, an executive coach and business author.
Tags: Diversity and Inclusion, Future of Work, Leadership
Traditional leadership is extinct—a relic of the past.
Dr Elie Daher
October 08, 2024
The mindset and approach that once defined traditional leadership are no longer sufficient in the 21st century, especially as we approach Industry 5.0 and beyond.
Leadership can be a talent, but it is also a skill that can be learned and refined.
Dr Elie Daher
September 15, 2024
When individuals find themselves in leadership positions they are not prepared for, they might resort to problematic behaviors: a top-down communication approach, opting for punishment instead of guidance when team mistakes occur, or being reactive, addressing issues only after they escalate.
Before you receive your best life lesson, you need to make a mistake—a grand one.
Dr Elie Daher
September 15, 2024
Often, leaders prioritize theory over practice due to time constraints, inconvenience, and lack of proper coaching and accountability. I can’t necessarily blame present-day leaders—we were raised with the traditional “memorize-just-to-pass” mindset, and since then, it’s something we’ve grown accustomed to.
A paycheck is important, but it is no longer the end-all-be-all of a career.
Dr Elie Daher
September 15, 2024
Professionals today seek to make a difference and leave a legacy in their careers. When you bridge the gap between the company’s values and your team’s beliefs, you cultivate a purpose-driven workforce that is 75% more committed to their work, with an increased performance of 33%
Tags: Coaching, Digital Transformation, Leadership
The Power of Purpose: Building a Thriving Organizational Culture
Dr. Elie Daher
March 27, 2023
Dr. Elie Daher’s article, “The Power of Purpose: Building a Thriving Organizational Culture,” explores how aligning organizational culture with purpose enhances employee engagement and drives performance. Drawing from his book Reimagining Leadership, he identifies seven key clusters—ranging from leadership behaviors to communication and team dynamics—that influence cultural alignment. By addressing these factors, leaders can bridge the gap between current practices and aspirational values, fostering a resilient, purpose-driven workplace.
Tags: Change Management, Future of Work, Leadership
Join the Movement: Reimagining Leadership for a Thriving Future
Dr. Elie Daher
March 14, 2023
Reimagining Leadership: Empowering Growth and Performance Through Purposeful Change and Constructive Culture" offers practical insights for transforming leadership and fostering growth in today's rapidly evolving workplace. With a focus on aligning organizational culture, improving team dynamics, and embracing digital transformation, this book guides leaders through the challenges of modern leadership and helps unlock organizational potential.
Tags: Change Management, Leadership, Personal Branding
Managing One of the Biggest Turnarounds/Shutdowns - Approach and Lessons Learnt
Dr. Elie Daher
November 11, 2012
A major IOC planned its biggest turnaround in its history in a heavy oil up-grader / Refinery in North America.
The major challenge was to ensure that safety aspects on the project are properly managed with over 3500 workers on site. To break this challenge down into manageable chunks such as ramping up to get over 300 safety personnel in a short time, ensuring training and permitting for over 3500 workers, deploying effective and adequate Gas Detection systems and monitoring, ensuring adequate supply and with the right amounts of breathing air to manage escapes or working under air in critical places during the shutdown and Confined Space Works where it is required with proper permitting, safety watch and effective rescue plans.
To execute this massive task, a proactive approach has to be utilized with a very early planning cycle to ensure adequate sourcing, surveying, centralized dispatching, mitigating potential risks and communicating effectively with all stakeholders and contractors. This approach has produced some tangible benefits to the project, namely an improved tracking of equipment and manpower, streamlined delivery process, enabled accurate and timely reporting to contracts and to client reps.
This paper shares some key statistics on this project like number of safety personnel deployed ( over 300), number of specialized safety equipment used (over 1200), number of jobs dispatched (over 3000), number of asset shrinkage ( No downtime), no LTI, and a total estimated savings on total safety spent of over 1 Million Dollars.
In addition, this paper aims at sharing some of the lessons learnt around project management, planning and communication.
Reimagining You: The Power of First Steps for Personal Branding
Dr. Elie Daher
May 06, 2025
Four Stories. Four Journeys. One Powerful Start.
Within the first month of launching the Reimagining You podcast, we’ve reached a milestone I didn’t anticipate so soon—10,000+ subscribers and over 54,000 views across just four episodes.
To everyone who watched, listened, shared, and sent in feedback—thank you. This podcast began as a vision to amplify authentic transformation. You turned it into a movement.
This first month wasn’t just about episodes—it was about breakthroughs. Four powerful guests. Four distinct vantage points. Each one contributed to the 10-step process in Reimagining You, offering lessons not just for your brand—but for your next bold chapter.
Tags: Entrepreneurship, Leadership, Personal Branding
Breaking Free from Comfort – The First Step to Reinventing Yourself
Linkedln
March 05, 2025
Every few weeks, my iPhone reminds me that it’s time for an update. A new operating system version is ready—faster, safer, wiser, and more efficient. With a single tap, I install it, knowing it will fix bugs, improve performance, and unlock new features. It’s a simple process, one we’ve come to expect from our technology.
Is Your Emotional Intelligence Future-Proofed for the Age of AI?
LinkedIn
November 01, 2024
In an era defined by exponential disruption, where AI and automation rapidly reshape our work landscape, the value of purely knowledge-based skills is waning. Instead, the true differentiators are adaptability, creativity, and emotional intelligence (EQ).
Leadership in the GCC: How I Learned to Navigate Cultural Diversity and Drive Success
Linkedln
September 30, 2024
After nearly 40 years of leadership in the GCC, one project still stands out as a pivotal moment in my career. Leading a multicultural team with tight deadlines, I quickly learned that navigating cultural nuances was just as important as managing the technical aspects of the work.
The Importance of Cultural Sensitivity in a Multicultural Workplace
Linkedln
September 09, 2024
Let’s face it—navigating today’s globalized work environment is like playing a game of cultural charades. Cultural sensitivity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the secret sauce for thriving in a world where your team could include someone from Boston, Beirut, Brussels, Bangalore, and Beijing, all on the same Zoom call.
Adaptability: The Missing Link in Oil & Gas Safety - Are You Prepared for the Future?
Linkedln
July 23, 2024
In this edition of our newsletters, I challenge you to consider the critical role of adaptability in navigating the complexities and uncertainties of our ever-changing world.
If You're a Salaried Employee, I've Got Bad News: The 9 to 5 Era is Ending!
LinkedIn
June 03, 2024
During our regular Sunday morning coffee ritual, a group of old friends gathered around the familiar table in the corner of our favorite café, cups steaming with the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The conversation, as it often did, turned to the latest updates about our children, many of whom were now on the cusp of full-fledged adulthood, either rounding off their university education or navigating the early years of their careers.
Have You Ever Wondered Why There Are Mirrors in Elevators and Lobbies?
LinkedIn
May 09, 2024
In the heart of New York City, a peculiar yet ingenious solution was found for what seemed an insurmountable problem in an old multi-story building. The elevators were slow, and during peak times, the wait was so unbearable that tenants threatened to vacate. Engineers were brought in, but the building's structure limited their options to speed up the service.
So You're Connected on LinkedIn - So What?
LinkedIn
March 13, 2024
Embark on a thought-provoking journey with us as we unveil the real value of a Connected Mindset in our latest newsletter. In an era where traditional boundaries in leadership are fast dissolving, the worth of your network has never been more pivotal.
Are You Brave Enough to Unlearn?
Linkedln
February 05, 2024
The Adaptive Beginner's Mindset is crucial in our rapidly evolving business landscape. It embodies agility, the readiness to pivot in response to change, and the capacity to thrive amid uncertainty. This mindset goes beyond adaptability; it's about fostering curiosity and critical thinking to understand and navigate complex challenges.
This is not just an ordinary annual review. It is an introspective process that aims to shape your future trajectory with enlightened steps.
By conducting a thorough audit of your previous year's targets and achievements, and considering how your decisions have impacted your journey, you set the stage for a future that is both meaningful and well-directed.
"Are You Ready to Lead in the Digital Frontier? Exploring the Power of the Digital Native Mindset"
Linkedln
November 23, 2023
In our previous edition (Edition 12), we introduced the "Seven Mindsets for Modern Leadership," a comprehensive framework designed to guide leaders through the complexities of the 21st-century business landscape.
Are You Leading Your Organization Into the Future or Stuck in the Past? Discover Your Leadership Mindset Maturity
Linkedln
October 12, 2023
We stand at a critical juncture in the evolution of industry. While Industry 4.0, with its focus on automation and data exchange, has already made its indelible mark, the emergent paradigm of Industry 5.0 promises to blend human creativity with machine intelligence in unprecedented ways.
The seven leadership lessons I learnt from my newly met African friends
Linkedln
September 05, 2023
The Eleventh Edition - Welcoming Autumn and the Continuation of Reimagining Leadership.
I hope this message finds you rejuvenated from a well-deserved summer break, full of fond memories and fresh perspectives.
"Are You Harnessing the Full Potential of Your Team? Discover the Power of Effective Team Dynamics"
Linkedln
June 12, 2023
Collaboration is the foundation of high-performing teams, relying on cohesive teamwork to achieve shared objectives. A successful collaboration platform fosters trust, support, and mutual respect. For example, a marketing team with diverse skills can work together towards a successful product launch by setting clear expectations, roles, and responsibilities while encouraging open and honest feedback.
"Resilience: The Unbeatable Skill for the Future Workforce. How are You Equipping Your Team to Thrive?"
Linkedln
May 15, 2023
According to the report, Resilience, Flexibility, and Agility have emerged as the third most crucial core skills for workers. A staggering 65.8% of organizations surveyed expressed their belief in the increased significance of these skills. Additionally, the report highlighted that these attributes rank as the fifth most important skills to reskill the workforce for 2027.
"Is Poor Communication Hurting Your Team's Performance? Ways to Improve Today"
Linkedln
April 27, 2023
Effective communication is not just important, it is fundamental to the success of teams and organizations. It is the foundation upon which collaboration, conflict resolution, decision-making, and overall team performance are built.
Books are now available on "www.ReimaginingLeadership.me"
Dr. Elie Daher
April 19, 2023
For all the readers in the GCC and Levant regions, we are pleased to announce that the much-awaited book, "Reimagining Leadership," is finally available for purchase as hard cover or paperback on www.reimaginingleadership.me.
The book offers a refreshing perspective on leadership and is a must-read for anyone seeking to build a successful team and company for the long term.
In addition to being available on Amazon.com, the book can now be shipped directly to your doorstep in the GCC and Levant regions out of the UAE. We are also excited to announce a limited-time promotion code of "booklaunch" that offers free shipping for your order.
The book has already received high praise from Dr. Marshall Goldsmith, the Thinkers50 #1 Executive Coach, and New York Times bestselling author of The Earned Life, Triggers, and What Got You Here Won't Get You There. He says,
"Whether you're a new leader or an experienced one, this book will give you the tools you need to build a successful team and company for the long term. In an age where quick-fix solutions are ubiquitous, Reimagining Leadership provides a refreshing alternative with a guide to targeting root issues and challenges to building a positive culture and empowering your team. A must-read!"
So if you're looking to up your leadership game and take your team to the next level, get your copy of "Reimagining Leadership" today on www.reimaginingleadership.me. Don't forget to use our limited-time promotion code "booklaunch" for free shipping. We're sure you'll find the book valuable and insightful!
Tags: Change Management, Leadership, Personal Branding
Are You Ready to Embrace the Seven Mindsets and Succeed in the Modern World?
Dr. Elie Daher
April 17, 2023
Are You Ready to Embrace the Seven Mindsets and Succeed in the Modern World?" Dr. Elie Daher introduces a transformative framework for modern leadership. He outlines seven essential mindsets—Digital Native, Experimental, Networked, Authentic, Data Mindful, Prepared, and Human-Centered—that equip professionals to navigate the complexities of today's dynamic environment. Drawing inspiration from the World Economic Forum's top skills for 2025, Dr. Daher emphasizes the importance of adaptability, innovation, and emotional intelligence. This piece serves as a guide for leaders aiming to thrive in the evolving landscape of work and leadership.
Tags: Future of Work, Leadership, Personal Branding
Master the Seven Mindsets of Modern Leadership" - Join us for a Book Signing in Beirut and Dubai to "Reimagining Leadership
Dr. Elie Daher
April 12, 2023
We cordially invite you to join us for a book signing ceremony of "Reimagining Leadership.
Come and explore the seven mindsets that modern leaders need to navigate the complexities of the current business landscape successfully.
Join us for an exciting opportunity to listen to a short talk about these mindsets and how they can revolutionize your leadership skills. I will be available to sign copies of the book and engage in an interactive discussion with you.
Leadership is not what it used to be. In today's fast-paced and ever-changing business world, leaders need to have a set of mindsets that allow them to navigate the challenges and complexities of modern leadership successfully. These seven mindsets are digital, connected-networked, adaptive, open-authentic, datamindful, future-focused prepared, and authentic human-centered.
The digital mindset is crucial for leaders to leverage technologies and tools to drive business outcomes. It requires a willingness to experiment, take risks, and understand the data and analytical implications associated with a digital experience. Leaders who do not embrace this mindset risk falling behind their competitors in the ever-changing digital landscape.
The connected-networked mindset is all about seeking out new knowledge and skills beyond traditional boundaries. Leaders with this mindset promote diversity, uniqueness, and collaboration beyond the boundaries of organization or label. They learn from people and ideas from ‘non-obvious’ places, breaking down old traditional barriers both horizontally and vertically. This mindset expands resilience, reduces analogous thinking, and feeds the leader's frame of reference.
The adaptive mindset is essential for leaders to be agile and pivot quickly in response to changing circumstances. It requires a willingness to embrace uncertainty and ambiguity, work collaboratively across teams and be comfortable with change. Leaders who lack this mindset may struggle to keep up with the constantly changing business environment.
The open-authentic mindset emphasizes being transparent, open, and willing to admit mistakes and vulnerabilities. Leaders with this mindset build trust and rapport through their honesty and integrity, and they are genuine in their interactions with others. They do not compromise their values or beliefs for the sake of pleasing others.
The datamindful mindset is all about understanding the importance of data and analytics in driving business outcomes. Leaders with this mindset recognize the importance of having a constant awareness of data as it flows through their life and practice. They should be able to analyze data effectively and use it to inform decision-making while keeping a keen eye on the ethical impact data capture and analysis has on any humans impacted by that data in terms of ownership, manipulation, and security.
The future-focused prepared mindset is essential in a world defined by unpredictable extremes of change alongside the constancy of evolutionary change. Leaders with this mindset recognize the importance of constantly expanding their frame of reference, looking forward into the future, looking out across boundaries, and looking inward to maintain a mental and physical state that helps them respond to change rather than react.
The authentic human-centered mindset is about understanding and empathizing with the needs and perspectives of others. Leaders with this mindset actively listen to others, put themselves in their shoes, and consider their feelings and emotions when making decisions. Human-centered leaders create a culture of inclusivity and collaboration where every team member feels valued and heard.
Leaders who embrace these seven mindsets are more likely to succeed in today's fast-paced and ever-changing business world. It is time to develop and embrace these mindsets to become the modern leader the world needs.
Join me in Beirut and Dubai for an exciting experience!
Tags: Future of Work, Leadership, Personal Branding
Released Today: 'Reimagining Leadership
Dr. Elie Daher
April 11, 2023
I am thrilled to announce the launch of my latest book, "Reimagining Leadership: Empowering Growth and Performance through Purposeful Change and Constructive Culture."
This book is an absolute must-read for anyone seeking to become a more effective leader in today's fast-paced and ever-changing business world.
Reimagining Leadership is not your average leadership guide; it offers a fresh perspective on modern leadership that will challenge and inspire you to rethink traditional ways of leading.
In "Reimagining Leadership”, I offer practical insights that senior leaders can use to navigate the complexities of today's fast-paced business world. The book challenges traditional ways of leading and encourages readers to embrace change and take a step towards success.
The book comprises nine chapters, each addressing a specific aspect of modern leadership. From creating a culture that aligns with your organization's purpose and values to turning a negative culture into a positive one that fosters growth and innovation, This book covers it all.
But don't just take our word for it; here's what Dr. Marshall Goldsmith, the Thinkers50 #1 Executive Coach and New York Times bestselling author of "The Earned Life," "Triggers," and "What Got You Here Won’t Get You There," had to say about "Reimagining Leadership:"
"Whether you’re a new leader or an experienced one, this book will give you the tools you need to build a successful team and company for the long term. In an age where quick-fix solutions are ubiquitous, Reimagining Leadership provides a refreshing alternative with a guide to targeting root issues and challenges to building a positive culture and empowering your team. A must-read!"
Tags: Change Management, Leadership, Personal Branding
Cultivating Exceptional Leadership for Unprecedented Organizational Growth: A Path to Success
Linkedln
April 04, 2023
Greetings to our esteemed readers as we welcome the month of April, a time of reflection and festivities with the observance of Ramadan and the celebration of Easter. May these occasions inspire and unite us as we navigate the complex world of business and leadership.
"The Foreword That Will Revolutionize Your Approach to Leadership: Insights from Professor Peter Hawkins"
Linkedln
March 20, 2023
I am also thrilled to introduce the first article for the Reimagining Leadership newsletter, featuring the foreword of my book by Professor Peter Hawkins, Chairman of Renewal Associates and Emeritus Professor of Leadership at Henley Business School.
Reimagining You The 10-Step Blueprint to a Million-Dollar Personal Brand
n/a
March 26, 2025
Reimagining You is a step-by-step guide to crafting a powerful personal brand, achieving financial independence, and future-proofing your career. Dr. Daher speaks globally on why personal branding is no longer a luxury—but a necessity—in today’s rapidly evolving job market.
Tags: Change Management, Future of Work, Leadership
Reimagining Leadership: Empowering Growth and Performance Through Purposeful Change and Constructive Culture
Reimagining Leadership
April 05, 2023
It’s time to start reimagining leadership within your organization. This groundbreaking business book is your road map to unlocking your team’s full potential through purposeful change. With insights and strategies from top industry professionals, you‘ll learn how to lead with confidence, inspire growth, and drive performance to new levels.
Reimagining You Book Review: CB Bowman-Ottomanelli, Bestselling Author, Association of Corporate Executive Coaches
Dr. Elie Daher
March 26, 2025
Reimagining You - Ten Steps Blueprint to a Million Dollar Brand is a tipping point for anyone ready to embrace their full potential and redefine success on their terms. As someone who dedicates half of my professional life to helping leaders find and execute their courage, I’m thrilled to see a book that powerfully addresses the need for personal reinvention in today’s rapidly evolving world.
It’s time to have it all—creating a life of impact and fulfillment that aligns with your true self while continuing to achieve financial success.
What resonates most with me is Elie’s emphasis on authenticity and personal branding. In my work, I’ve seen, time and time again, how the courage to be genuinely yourself is the foundation of impactful leadership and true success. Reimagining You provides practical, actionable steps to discover your unique voice and amplify it in a way that creates lasting value.
At times, highly motivated people desire to explore the untapped potential below our surface. I encourage all of us who experience this urge to consider it a call to break free from the constraining definition of traditional success, and chart a course toward a truly fulfilling life. Embrace the change-maker that is bubbling to the surface with the guidance of Dr. Elie’s book. Daher has delivered an invaluable resource for modern leaders and aspiring change-makers to break free from constraints. Use this book to polish and blend “the old you ” with “ the potential you.” Enjoy the ride to empowered success!
CB Bowman-Ottomanelli, MCEC, BCC, CMC, CVP, CVF Bestselling Author:
Courage to Leap & Lead, Courage to Leap & Market
CEO, Association of Corporate Executive Coaches
Tags: Change Management, Leadership, Personal Branding
2 Journal Publications
Turnaround Procedures to Ensure Personnel Safety During Covid-19: Best Practices and Case Study
Society of Petroleum Engineering
October 04, 2021
As industry returns to work and restarts planning and execution of turnarounds and other maintenance projects, there will be regulatory, corporate and social responsibilities in order to safely restart and sustain activities. Major maintenance events and projects already bring complex challenges as multiple activities are carried out by numerous personnel and contractors, in a short duration of time. This risk is further amplified with the additional restrictions, challenges and complications posed by COVID-19.
The key challenge for turnaround managers in current times is to ensure the safety of their personnel while delivering a successful turnaround. Through a detailed analysis and breakdown of the various stages of a turnaround, this paper attempts to answer one core question- How do you keep onsite personnel safe during turnarounds in the COVID-19 era?
United Safety has developed a series of planning and prevention tools to help projects identify and implement robust actions that prevent the spread of COVID-19 onsite. These steps have been successfully implemented on site during a turnaround for a major Client in Canada. From additional precautions to new operating procedures, modifications were made at various stages including pre-planning, during the turnaround and post-turnaround stage to ensure the safety of onsite personnel.
The result was an incident-free turnaround with zero recorded transmissions on site and a comprehensive COVID-19 Turnaround Response Plan.
Tags: Business Strategy, COVID19, Health and Safety
Application of quantitative Risk assessment for planning high sour wells or working in an H2S Field close to populated areas.
Society of Petroleum Engineering
September 11, 2012
H2S or Hydrogen Sulfite is an IDLH (Immediate Danger to Life and Health) poisonous gas and its exposure to humans leaves serious effects that could range from death to lasting physiological and neurological sicknesses.
H2S gas is also odorless, colorless and heavier than air which makes detection by humans very difficult.
H2S occurs naturally in most hydrocarbon bearing formations and could also be generated through well interventions like fracting and flooding.
Oil and Gas companies typically plan for any potential H2S presence and leaks to protect their site employees and contractors. They use gas monitoring devices, supply breathing air to required personnel and provide emergency plans to evacuate or rescue personnel who are potentially exposed.
One area of concern that is often being neglected is the protection of the community where the drilling occurs in highly populated area in the event of a gas release.
As H2S gas leaks in the air, solar heating/radiative cooling determined by cloud coverage and latitude from the equator, wind speed and direction, surface roughness, terrain and height from the ground are all factors that will affect where the plume will be headed and whether it will reach a populated area with a concentration that is harmful to the community.
In addition to the above factors, source elements like diameter, initial jet density, velocity, proximity, obstacles and fallouts are important to building the dispersion model and predicting the impact on the nearby community.
The result of the study would determine an EPZ (Emergency Planning Zone) which allows us to implement monitoring, alarming and evacuation plans within the EPZ.
This paper aims to discuss how to conduct dispersion modeling as quantitave risk assememnt method and provide recommendation on how to choose and run models in order to evaluate the risks and proactively implement emergency plans to protect the populated areas near H2S areas
Tags: Analytics, Business Continuity, Health and Safety
2 Keynotes
How Artificial Intelligence and automation are enabling better instruments and client interpretations
Dr. Elie Daher
May 08, 2025
Dr. Elie Daher spoke at the ACEC Conference about how Artificial Intelligence and automation are enabling better instruments and client interpretations. This presentation highlights the transformative impact of AI technologies in improving tools and enhancing the way clients understand and interact with data.
Tags: Digital Transformation, Leadership, Management
4 Panels
Panel Discussion: The Future of Work
Dr Elie Daher
November 18, 2024
Participate in a virtual panel where industry leaders discuss emerging trends in the future of work, including remote collaboration and digital transformation
Tags: Coaching, Digital Transformation, Leadership
Panel Session 8: Embracing Chronic Unease: A Vital Leadership Behaviour for HSE Excellence
spe-event
September 12, 2024
In the panel ‘Embracing Chronic Unease: A Vital Leadership Behaviour for HSE Excellence’, we question how the Chronic Unease mindset can transform Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) leadership. What does adopting a stance of continuous vigilance and skepticism towards safety processes mean, and how does this counter complacency to enhance safety outcomes? The panelists, experts in HSE, will explore these questions and share strategies for embedding this mindset into organisational culture. They will illustrate its effectiveness through case studies, prompting us to consider how Chronic Unease is operationalised. How can organisations ensure their safety barriers and systems are truly effective? Are weak signals, potentially leading to catastrophic outcomes, being appropriately elevated? What actions and behaviors are necessary to overcome the fear of reporting bad news and systematically test barriers and systems? How is leadership critical in creating a culture where employees trust their concerns will be addressed without blame? The discussion will also address the role of leadership in maintaining an environment conducive to reporting and addressing safety issues. Join us to reshape your approach to safety leadership and contribute to a safer, more efficient workplace.
Tags: Coaching, Digital Transformation, Leadership
Ensuring Asset Integrity Through a Wellhead Integrity Program: A Case Study
Research Gate
January 03, 2017
An Exploration and Production (E&P) company in Latin America required a Well Integrity Management System as part of its Operational Excellence program. The company was struggling with inconsistent and insufficient wellhead data especially as it expanded and acquired wells across four countries that lacked quality wellhead history. With over 2800 wells, the challenge was to establish a standard method for evaluating each of the well's mechanical condition, age, exposures, annular pressure, and surface corrosion and configurations. A wellhead risk assessment program was developed to maintain a database of the operator's wellhead assets. Historical data about each wellhead was entered into the system initially by Field Specialists
Tags: Coaching, Digital Transformation, Leadership
1 Podcast
Reimagining You I Dr Elie Daher
Dr. Elie Daher
March 27, 2025
???????????????????????????????????????????? ???????????? @???????????????????????????????????????????? — the podcast and video series dedicated to helping executives, entrepreneurs, and professionals move beyond job titles to build powerful personal brands and lasting influence.
Each episode features conversations with global thought leaders, disruptors, and visionaries who share their journeys of reinvention, brand building, and purpose-driven success. From strategy to mindset, we unpack the 10-step blueprint from Dr. Elie Daher's bestselling book Reimagining You: ???????????????? ???????????????????????????????????? ???????????????????????? ???????? ???????????????????????????????? ????????????????.
️ Whether you're transitioning from the corporate world, launching your own venture, or seeking to amplify your voice—this channel will give you the tools, inspiration, and frameworks to take control of your future.
"My job isn't to keep people forever. It's to build them so well, they outgrow the need to stay-and still choose to."
Dr. Elie Daher
May 23, 2025
“I Don’t Think I Can Grow Here Anymore.”
She sat across from me—quiet, calm, clear.
She had started as a sales admin.
She’d grown into project support.
Then taught herself analytics and became indispensable.
Not loud. Not demanding.
But the kind of person who made everything work better.
And now she was telling me, gently that she’d hit a wall.
“What’s next for me here?”
I had no good answer.
She’d outgrown every box we put her in.
And I hadn’t built the next one.
That moment hit harder than I expected.
Because it wasn’t just about her role
it was about my leadership.
Here was the dilemma I faced:
- Do I create a new position just to keep her?
- Do I stretch her across other tasks just to buy time?
- Or do I do something harder and more honest?
- Support her as she flies—even if it means letting her go.
Most leaders would scramble to retain her.
I nearly did.
But instead, I paused. And told her the truth:
“I don’t know the answer yet. But I see you. I value you.
And if this company can’t hold your next chapter…
I’ll still be here cheering for it.”
Because real leadership isn’t about control.
It’s about courage.
- Courage to acknowledge when your org isn't enough.
- Courage to not hold people back out of fear.
- Courage to help someone grow—even if it means watching them grow elsewhere.
That day, she didn’t leave.
Not immediately.
Because honesty bought trust. And trust bought time.
- Enough time to explore options.
- Enough time to give her clarity.
- Enough time to remind her—she mattered.
If you lead people, remember:
Potential doesn’t wait forever.
When they ask “what’s next?” they’re already thinking beyond you.
And sometimes, the greatest act of leadership is letting go.
The Certified Chair Executive Program is the leading Executive education credential globally developed specifically for the advisory sector. Participants gain in-depth knowledge to support the implementation, evaluation and chairing of advisory boards, executive committees, councils or board-level meetings.
Supported by current research and impact assessment, the Certified Chair Executive Program incorporates the ABF101 Advisory Board Best Practice Framework, Ethical Engagement and practical knowledge for the advisory sector.
As the developers of the ABF101 Advisory Board Best Practice Framework , the Advisory Board Centre is the sole organization authorized to deliver authenticated education and resources for the Advisory Board Best Practice Framework including the Certified Chair credential.
The Certified Chair Executive Program has been accredited by The CPD Certification Service, providing recognised independent CPD accreditation compatible with global CPD principles.
Tags: Change Management, Leadership, Personal Branding
EQ Coach Certification (Level 2)
Six Seconds
September 03, 2024
The EQ Assessor Certification equips professionals with the validated Six Seconds emotional intelligence assessment tools—such as the SEI—and trains them to effectively measure and develop EQ in individuals and groups.
Widely recognized and grounded in evidence-based methods, the program offers access to global expert faculty, a professional EQ network, and tools used across more than 200 countries
Leveraging RTLS Applications for Enhanced Safety and Efficiency in Oil and Gas Organizations
Open Sap
September 10, 2024
Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS) have emerged as invaluable tools for enhancing safety and efficiency in the operations of oil and gas organizations. This abstract investigates the various applications of RTLS technology within the industry, highlighting its transformative impact on safety protocols and operational efficiency.
Tags: Coaching, Digital Transformation, Leadership
Revolutionizing Tool Management in Oil and Gas Facilities
United Safety
February 10, 2024
This presentation provides an overview of the AIPEC – what it is, how it can improve tool management, challenges in its implementation and a case study that clearly demonstrates its effectiveness.
Tags: Coaching, Digital Transformation, Leadership
From lone workers to connected workers – How technology is transforming safety, Adipec 2022
OnePetro
October 31, 2022
Every day, more than a billion workers are out on their own for part or all of their workday, with no colleagues to turn to in an emergency or collaborate on a task.
This paper takes a detailed look into a new lone worker solution that ensures that lone workers are protected and get their job done easier.
Tags: Coaching, Digital Transformation, Leadership
Fulfilling Local Content Requirements Within The First Six Months of Country Operation: A Case Study
Open Sap
October 27, 2015
In Latin America, a Company required the provision of H2S and CO2 safety services for ten offshore drilling rigs with an extremely tight timeline. The operator decided to choose a safety solutions provider based in North America to provide the services. As a new player in the region, a major challenge was to comply with operator and government requirements to have 60% local content at project launch.
Tags: Coaching, Digital Transformation, Leadership
Global safety trends in the Oil and Gas industry, IATMI, Bali, Indonesia, October 2015
Open Sap
October 20, 2015
This paper examines the safety trends influencing and shaping the oil and gas industry. From rising local content requirements to increasing shortage of skilled workers, rise in unconventional Oil and Gas to an increasing number of frontier oil producing countries, the growing role of Operational Excellence and the most common causes of incidents in the Oil and Gas sector, this paper will discuss facts, figures and case studies from around the world.
Tags: Coaching, Digital Transformation, Leadership
Reducing delays in document management and tooling costs, IATMI, Bali, Indonesia, October 2015
Open Sap
October 20, 2015
ENI SpA was facing a persistent challenge in one of its Italian Oil/Gas treatment plants due to the time-consuming task of equipment, personnel, and on-site operation document management that increased the tooling costs of their operations. The company decided to explore new technologies, systems and services to solve this issue and reduce associated costs. Servizi Integrati di Sicurezza Srl, part of United Safety Group, was tasked to develop a tool to facilitate all safety operations and regulatory aspects of the standard and non-standard activities.
From Oil Rigs to CleanTech Unicorns — Meet Leon Farrant on Reimagining You
Dr. Elie Daher
June 05, 2025
In this episode of Reimagining You, we sit down with Leon Farrant — co-founder & CEO of Green Li-ion — whose startup is revolutionizing how the world thinks about battery recycling.
Born in Kenya, raised in Australia, and now building the future of energy from Singapore, Leon’s story is anything but ordinary. From picking fruit at 12 to selling his business twice, launching a climate-tech company mid-lockdown, and leading a $45M-funded recycling innovation — his journey is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and raw truth.
We unpack:
How to shift from oil & gas to green energy
Why “champagne and razor blades” defines startup life
The personal brand behind the boardroom visibility
What it means to build legacy in the battery economy
Reimagining You is the podcast where we explore the power of personal branding, reinvention, and leadership in today’s hybrid economy.
Dr Marshall Goldsmith on Legacy, Leadership & Redefining Success
Dr. Elie Daher
May 31, 2025
Beyond Titles to Impact: Dr. Marshall Goldsmith on Legacy, Leadership & Redefining Success
What if success isn’t what you think it is?
In this game-changing episode of Reimagining You, Dr. Elie Daher sits down with Dr. Marshall Goldsmith—the world’s #1 executive coach and bestselling author of What Got You Here Won’t Get You There—to uncover what it really takes to build a life of impact, not just titles.
This is not a motivational speech.
It’s a wake-up call.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Why your mission matters more than your resume in today’s world
• How to build daily habits that actually change lives
• The “superstition trap” that derails even top CEOs
• Why humility, courage, and discipline are the holy trinity of growth
• And how to lead others by first leading yourself
With over 60 books, 100+ CEOs coached, and 18M+ LinkedIn post views—Marshall brings not just wisdom, but tools you can use today.
Whether you're a rising professional, a seasoned executive, or someone rethinking your next chapter—this conversation will shift your mindset and remind you:
You don’t need permission to lead.
You just need purpose.
Watch now and reimagine your voice, your legacy, and your leadership.
FREE DOWNLOAD – Get your copy of Finding Your Edge: The Guide to Becoming Unforgettable
This powerful guide will help you uncover your unique value, build a standout personal brand, and lead with purpose—starting today.
Click here to grab it now :https://reimaginingyou.me/ (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?even...)
The Comfort Trap: Breaking Free, Starting Over & Reclaiming Your Edge. Podcast with Peter Schatzberg
Dr. Elie Daher
May 22, 2025
In this raw and revealing episode of Reimagining You, Dr. Elie Daher sits down with Peter Schatzberg—virtual kitchen pioneer, F&B tech innovator, and startup advisor—to talk about what happens after the startup headlines fade.
Peter opens up about the hidden weight of success, the comfort trap that follows a big exit, and the quiet work of rebuilding purpose and identity. From burnout to reinvention, we explore the personal side of entrepreneurship—and what it takes to reclaim your edge.
Inside this episode:
• Why success can be a trap, not a finish line
• How Peter rewired his mindset after exiting his startup
• The identity shift no one prepares founders for
• What personal branding looks like after a public win
• The power of slowing down to realign with purpose
This is a powerful listen for high performers, founders, and anyone navigating their next chapter with intention.
Subscribe now for more episodes that challenge, inspire, and reimagine what leadership looks like today.
Make It Real: Humility, Authenticity & Leading with Purpose — Podcast with H.E. Dr. Walid Fayad
Dr. Elie Daher
May 15, 2025
In this powerful episode of Reimagining You, we explore what it truly means to give yourself Permission to the Future—through the remarkable journey of H.E. Dr. Walid Fayad.
Dr. Fayad isn’t just a former Minister of Energy & Water, MIT PhD, or global transformation strategist.
He’s a leader who challenges everything we think we know about leadership, influence, and personal branding.
In a world that rewards noise, Walid built influence through humility, humanity, and quiet leadership presence.
In this conversation, we explore:
How personal branding is built in moments, not marketing plans.
Why balance and authenticity are the real power moves in leadership.
How being invisible online doesn’t make you irrelevant.
And why the loudest leaders don’t always need to raise their voices.
This is your invitation to rethink your leadership voice, your brand, and your next chapter.
Tags: Change Management, Leadership, Personal Branding
Make It Real: Adaptability, Identity & Leading with Relevance - Podcast with Ross Thornley
Dr. Elie Daher
May 08, 2025
What if being in beta mode wasn’t a weakness—but your smartest move yet?
This episode's guest, Ross Thornley, doesn’t just talk about reinvention.
He lives it.
From rebranding global firms to rebranding himself, Ross—Co-Founder of AQai and a pioneer in Adaptability Intelligence. Ross takes us deep into what it means to evolve your identity in a world that never stops changing.
What’s inside:
- Why letting go of who you were unlocks who you can become
- How to make your value real in times of ambiguity
- The truth about staying relevant without clinging to your résumé
Ross puts it powerfully:
"You can’t future-proof your job—but you can future-proof your identity."
"Relevance is not permanent—it has to be earned again, and again, and again."
"Being in beta mode means you’re alive to possibility—not afraid of reinvention."
Tags: Change Management, Leadership, Personal Branding
Command the Room: How to Own Your Voice, Presence, and Message - Podcast with Eithne Treanor
Reimagining You with Dr. Elie Daher
May 01, 2025
What if the most powerful tool in your leadership journey isn't your title—but your voice?
In this episode of Reimagining You, I sit down with Eithne Treanor—international media trainer, former CNN journalist, and global event moderator—to explore how executives and professionals can elevate their presence, own their space, and communicate with impact. Whether you're pitching to investors, navigating a boardroom, or stepping on stage—this is your masterclass in executive communication.
We explore:
How to find your authentic voice and make it resonate
Mastering presence and body language without over-performing
The mindset shift from “speaking” to “commanding”
Tools to overcome fear, stage anxiety, and hesitation
Why storytelling and preparation are the real power plays
“You don’t have to be loud to be heard. You have to be clear to be remembered.”
If you’re serious about building a personal brand that connects, influences, and inspires—this episode is for you.
Subscribe for more bold conversations:
YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/4jwpzsbk
Tags: Change Management, Leadership, Personal Branding
Beyond the Title - Podcast with Louise Broekman
Dr. Elie Daher
April 24, 2025
What if your legacy starts where your title ends?
This week on Reimagining You, I speak with Louise Broekman about the rise of portfolio careers, advisory leadership, and why your post-executive chapter might be your most influential yet.
We dive into:
Transitioning from CEO to strategic advisor
Building brand equity beyond your last title
Escaping the "Previously Important Person" (PIP) trap
Creating relevance and value in the next chapter
Louise has helped thousands of leaders around the world reimagine their role in business and society—this episode is your roadmap to doing the same.
Subscribe, Watch or listen now:
YouTube: https://lnkd.in/dXWJsh3Y
Buzzsprout → https://lnkd.in/d8RyxfWp
If you're a leader in transition, a coach guiding C-suite clients, or just wondering what's next after success—this one's for you.
Tags: Change Management, Leadership, Personal Branding
WHY MOST NETWORKING FAILS - A Podcast with Adrian Gostick
Import from youtube.com
April 17, 2025
This is more than a conversation—it’s a masterclass on transitioning from the corporate world to global influence, and how gratitude, emotional intelligence, and storytelling help you claim your voice and your space.
The Comfort Trap: Hidden Costs of Corporate Complacency
Dr. Elie Daher
November 23, 2024
In today's fast-paced professional world, it's easy to get comfortable with routine tasks and steady paychecks. But this comfort can hold us back, keeping our true potential hidden.
Revolutionizing Tool Management in Oil and Gas Facilities Available to Purchase
Dr. Elie Daher
September 10, 2024
One of the key challenges to worker productivity is increasing tool time. One way to increase worker productivity is to ensure that workers have easy access to the equipment they need and ensure that the equipment can be effectively tracked, maintained and is ready for use.
The Automated In-Plant Equipment Center (AIPEC) is an automated warehouse with all the required equipment set up on the worksite itself. The AIPEC is a groundbreaking innovation in safety tool management within oil and gas facilities and refineries. Acting as the central point of onsite distribution, the AIPEC streamlines the process of accessing essential safety tools and breathing air for workers and contractors. Through a seamless interface where workers can simply use their badges to rent required equipment, the AIPEC ensures a highly automated, cost-effective, efficient, and reliable tool tracking and inventory management system.
Key benefits of the AIPEC include the supply of rental equipment needed by both clients and contractors, accurate billing, and comprehensive usage reporting. The integration of breathing air solutions with the refill station further enhances its utility, providing a holistic safety solution. With electronic distribution of safety tools and equipment, the AIPEC eliminates the inefficiencies and uncertainties associated with manual tracking methods, ensuring precise management of inventory and usage.
Designed specifically for downstream environments, the AIPEC addresses the unique needs and challenges of oil and gas facilities. By centralizing the distribution and management of safety tools, it optimizes operational efficiency while enhancing safety protocols. The AIPEC not only reduces the time and effort required for equipment procurement but also minimizes the risk of inventory discrepancies and ensures compliance with safety regulations.
In conclusion, the AIPEC represents a transformative advancement in safety tool management for oil and gas organizations. By leveraging automation and advanced tracking technologies, it enables facilities to achieve unprecedented levels of efficiency, reliability, and safety. Embracing the AIPEC solution underscores the industry's commitment to innovation and proactive risk management, setting new standards for operational excellence in the downstream sector.
Integrated, Remote, Digital – Confined Space Monitoring in IR4
Dr. Elie Daher
September 10, 2024
Confined space work is one of the most hazardous jobs in a turnaround. In recent years, confined space monitoring has been revolutionized. Safety watch personnel positioned outside the confined spaces have been replaced by qualified technicians who remotely monitor multiple confined spaces. These technicians can directly communicate with the confined space workers and have clear A/V communications with them.
While the current remote monitoring system is a step in the right direction, there are certain safety challenges that persist. One such challenge, for example, is that you can currently only monitor workers through A/V cameras. While workers may look fine physically, in emergencies like gas leaks, tracking internal vitals like heart rate and breathing rate can alert the command center to a potential medical emergency. The affected worker can be taken out of the confined space for appropriate treatment and rest preventing an incident within the Confined Space.
Another challenge with the current Confined Space Monitoring systems is that they are monitored by technicians who are monitoring multiple confined spaces at the same time. No matter how experienced and well trained the technicians are, they are still human and might miss something. This is where AI comes in. Enhancing the current confined space monitoring solutions with AI technology like Computer Vision enables improved PPE compliance, fall alerts etc enhancing safety of the workers within confined spaces.
Lastly, one other challenge of the current confined space monitoring systems is that they require a command center which relies on the power and network connectivity available at the plant it is situated in. This results in certain limitations where there are space constraints and/ or connectivity issues. For these situations, the new confined space monitoring solution has a ‘light’ version which does not require a full command center set up. The ‘light’ version can be installed on a laptop and managed by a technician from anywhere on or off the site. This reduces its footprint and can work independently on battery power.
This paper looks in detail at the technical advances of the new digital confined spaces monitoring technology and how it maximizes worker safety and efficiency.
Top 8 Digital Safety Trends in Oil and Gas in 2023
Dr. Elie Daher
October 06, 2023
Top 8 digital safety trends in Oil and Gas in 2023
Oil and Gas is one of the most hazardous industries to work in. From exposure to toxic gases to working at dangerous temperatures, lone worker management to fall detection, there are a host of safety issues that are common to the industry. It is also an industry undergoing a revolutionary digital transformation. With changes, come challenges and new opportunities. This paper looks at the top digital safety trends that are taking place within the industry.
The top trends that will be investigated in this paper include:
Real time safety solutions (RTLS): Real-time location services have re-defined personnel monitoring. From real time access control to personnel monitoring, geo-fencing to vehicle collision avoidance, real-time location tracking has a wide range of applications that can be used to make the industry safer.
Remote monitoring: Remote monitoring technologies are one of the most adopted digital technologies used by Oil and Gas companies around the world. From a safety perspective, remote monitoring has changed the game for confined space monitoring. Gas monitors, breathing air apparatus can all now be monitored remotely reducing the number of onsite personnel required contributing to a safer and more efficient worksite.
Connected worker solutions: Networked devices are transforming lone workers to connected workers. Through a comprehensive solution of apps, industrial IIoT infrastructure and connected devices, workers can now directly communicate and connect with the command center ensuring enhanced safety for lone workers.
Smarter equipment: Equipment, devices and tools are also getting smarter. All traditional equipment can be ‘smarter’ by using data, AI and IIoT technology to work with each other to revolutionize their role in safety.
AI solutions: AI is being increasingly used in Oil and Gas for a range of safety solutions. Computer Vision for example has a versatile range of applications that ensure safer workers. From PPE compliance to fall detection, Computer Vision and other AI technologies can be used to ensure safer Oil and Gas workers.
Automation of hazardous and high-risk jobs: Robots and drones have been taking over high-risk jobs to keep workers safe.
Training in the digital era: Better trained workers are safer workers. With the rapid rise in digital technologies, there are a growing number of digital and hybrid training and coaching sessions that are becoming more popular. AI is also being increasingly used in training to ensure a highly trained workforce.
Digital twins: More organizations are investing in digital twins to detect, predict and even help prevent incidents from happening in the real world by better understanding their impacts in the digital world by gaining a clearer comprehension of their consequences in the digital sphere.
Turnaround Procedures to Ensure Personnel Safety During Covid-19: Best Practices and Case Study
Dr. Elie Daher
October 04, 2021
As industry returns to work and restarts planning and execution of turnarounds and other maintenance projects, there will be regulatory, corporate and social responsibilities in order to safely restart and sustain activities. Major maintenance events and projects already bring complex challenges as multiple activities are carried out by numerous personnel and contractors, in a short duration of time. This risk is further amplified with the additional restrictions, challenges and complications posed by COVID-19.
The key challenge for turnaround managers in current times is to ensure the safety of their personnel while delivering a successful turnaround. Through a detailed analysis and breakdown of the various stages of a turnaround, this paper attempts to answer one core question- How do you keep onsite personnel safe during turnarounds in the COVID-19 era?
United Safety has developed a series of planning and prevention tools to help projects identify and implement robust actions that prevent the spread of COVID-19 onsite. These steps have been successfully implemented on site during a turnaround for a major Client in Canada. From additional precautions to new operating procedures, modifications were made at various stages including pre-planning, during the turnaround and post-turnaround stage to ensure the safety of onsite personnel.
The result was an incident-free turnaround with zero recorded transmissions on site and a comprehensive COVID-19 Turnaround Response Plan.
Public Safety and Sour Gas: A Case Study of Innovations in Public Protection and Emergency Response
Dr. Elie Daher
November 07, 2016
A key Oil and Gas player required hydrogen sulfide (H2S) safety solutions for their project in Iraq. The operator had planned a drilling operation on a rig with a high potential concentration of H2S. They realized that they needed to protect and secure two communities that consist of more than 1500 homes near the drilling site from a potential gas release. The mountainous location and tough winters required a reliable, portable and robust detection and communication system that would work in extreme weather conditions with temperatures ranging from -15°C to 52 °C. The two villages were located 5km from the worksite. The operator needed to make sure the villagers are notified of any gas readings that may pose hazards to the communities.
A cutting-edge community protection solution was implemented composed of several gas and environmental monitors linked together to control the conditions within the EPZ. The innovative perimeter monitoring solution allowed environmental conditions to be monitored online in real-time. Due to difficult terrain conditions, boosters were deployed to enhance the connection between the perimeter monitoring system and the base station.
Radio-frequency (RF) and web technologies were integrated into each platform to enable real-time transmission of data to the base unit. From the base unit, the stored data is the uploaded to a global server. This was designed in such a way to give the operator a comprehensive understanding of all the stored information.
The use of a proprietary SCADA system provided a reliable and accurate data log which could be stored and accessed online. Notifications on impending low battery life, wind speed, and direction, temperature and gas readings were provided on a real-time basis, thus helping the operator to make informed decisions to protect its assets and the community, prior, during and post any event.
Addressing The Challenges For Safety And Mobility In Facilities With Large Red Zones: A Field-testing Case Study
Dr. Elie Daher
November 09, 2015
In the Middle East, a large gas reservoirs located onshore has been developed to produce sales gas, natural gas liquids, condensates and elemental sulphur. The reservoirs contain very high concentrations (23%) of toxic Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S), making it an extremely sour gas field. Based on Quantitative Risk Assessments, certain areas of the gas field facilities have been defined as red zones. These are areas where a potential exists for exposure to such high concentrations of Hydrogen Sulphide that a fatality may occur due to relatively short exposure.
Following the operator’s code of practice on management of hydrogen sulphide, large red zones were identified: all well pads in the gas gathering network and the western area of the gas plant including the receivers, slug catcher, and inlet separation, gas sweetening & condensate stabilization units. A leak from the western area would potentially create dangerous levels of toxic and flammable gas clouds within minutes. As a result, access to the red zone is controlled and only authorized and trained personnel are allowed to enter the red zone. When conducting maintenance activities, personnel must don a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) or be connected to an airline at all times.
A solution was engineered to access the large red zone and minimize breathing air consumption from SCBAs. This paper presents the field-testing results of the innovation aimed at resolving both flammability and toxicity issues while providing mobility in red zones. By integrating breathing air systems and gas monitoring systems into the overall shape and form of an explosion-proof vehicle, the transport of personnel and equipment for daily operations and maintenance in red zones has been made safer and more efficient. The technology does not interfere with any of the vehicle functions or impede the vehicle operator in performing his duties. Results of the field test indicate that the explosion-proof vehicle helps reduce personnel fatigue in large plants where there are significant distances to traverse. Direct cost savings, reduced travel time and increased personnel morale were some of the achieved results. For emergency response situations, the vehicle can extend rescue operations. At present, standard rescue operations are limited to thirty minutes due to a limited portable air supply. The vehicle carries 400 cubic feet of air as a standard, providing enough breathing air for two persons for two hours.
This is a case study of the radical innovation that provides safety and mobility in red zones. To date, it has served as a permanent H2S monitoring vehicle. It requires very little maintenance and has been found to withstand extreme weather conditions in the Middle East. With modifications, it can also serve as a dedicated emergency vehicle to rescue personnel within a toxic, potentially explosive atmosphere.
Reducing Delays in Document Management and Tooling Costs of Refineries and Plants: A Case Study of Risk Management Software Development
Dr. Elie aherD
October 20, 2015
ENI SpA was facing a persistent challenge in one of its Italian Oil/Gas treatment plants due to the time-consuming task of equipment, personnel, and on-site operation document management that increased the tooling costs of their operations. The company decided to explore new technologies, systems and services to solve this issue and reduce associated costs. Servizi Integrati di Sicurezza Srl, part of United Safety Group, was tasked to develop a tool to facilitate all safety operations and regulatory aspects of the standard and non-standard activities.
Following the concept of Software as a Service (SaaS), a risk management software was designed to improve document release, tracking, recording, and operations management. The software was designed to allow users to manage multiple projects including bill books, law fulfilments, documents, forms, work permits, access control and any other activity-related document management. The system also allows remote control and access to documents thus serving as a monitoring tool independent of operational dynamics in the plant.
The system performed plant access management for all personnel and equipment. It provides personnel tracking for quick emergency response and has integrated Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) fixed readers and validations on computers or tablets. It stores over 100 profiled ad-hoc checklists and controls thousands of work permits every month, classified by areas, types of work, contractors, foreman, and time schedule. Using the software, the management was able to accomplish its safety management system and was able to generate reports by correlating several data and information. The software now acts as a connected business intelligence platform providing interactive views and statistics of the data for HSE management supporting Simultaneous Operations (SIMOPS) to avoid unwanted and costly operational interferences.
Prior to using this software, plant managers used separate project files focusing on specific operations such as work permits, personnel checklists, access control, etc. The result was a vast and fragmented management that increased risk exposure due to the high human activity rate. This case study shares the key metrics and costs savings of having a system that functions as a global container for safety data that allows automated actions and advanced controls.
Improving Efficiencies of Short Duration Projects During Turnarounds: A Case Study on Innovative Breathing Air Solutions
Dr. Elie Daher
October 20, 2015
A frequent challenge during facility shutdowns and turnarounds is the congestion of work areas. As a result, carrying out short-duration tasks such as blinding with powering pneumatic tools take much longer time due to equipment transport and set up the process. To respond to this challenge, a portable breathing air delivery unit was designed with a narrow footprint to allow quick and easy deployment even in constricted work areas.
The portable breathing air unit provides ten man-hours of breathing air and can support two users. It has a separate air tool port to power pneumatic tools. A backflow preventer ensures that air tool cannot contaminate the breathing air supply. As a safety measure, the air tool supply shuts down at 1000 psi, leaving the worker with approximately two man-hours of breathing air. To ensure that personnel have the required safety equipment and the ability to complete their assigned jobs, the unit is equipped with a platform to transport required gear to remote work areas.
The portable breathing air unit was recently put to the test by a Gas to Liquids company during its emergency facility turnaround. This is a case study for the use of such system capable of providing both breathing air and power tools in constricted work areas. During a turnaround for example, to remove a set of flange bolts from a pipe, the entire operation may take 10 minutes, but the actual operation of the air wrench may only take two minutes of that time. However, actual job tickets indicate that a 10-minute job takes a minimum of 30 minutes to one hour to complete due to the long process of deploying safety gears, breathing air systems and a separate pneumatic power source. By utilizing this portable breathing air delivery system with a dual purpose, activities such as blinding can be done more efficiently while ensuring personnel safety.
This case study discusses the significance of this innovation in improving efficiencies during turnarounds.
Tags: Education, Health and Safety, Project Management
An Analysis of Global Safety Trends in the Oil and Gas Industry - Impacts and Challenges in the Years Ahead
Dr. Elie Daher
October 20, 2015
This paper examines the safety trends influencing and shaping the oil and gas industry. From rising local content requirements to increasing shortage of skilled workers, rise in unconventional Oil and Gas to an increasing number of frontier oil producing countries, the growing role of Operational Excellence and the most common causes of incidents in the Oil and Gas sector, this paper will discuss facts, figures and case studies from around the world.
The paper was developed using secondary research based on industry reports such as the International Association of Oil and Gas Producers' (IOGP) Annual Safety Performance Indicators report to provide an analysis of fatal incident rates, total recordable injury rate, and lost time injury frequency. The research also referred to country profiles published by the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) including energy outlooks, analyses and projections. Information was culled from annual reports of international oil companies, technical papers published by the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE) as well as white papers by industry leaders, think tank groups and consulting firms.
While the presentation offers a bird's eye view of the safety industry at large, it delves deeper into safety issues outlining the scope of the various challenges and how they influence Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) management. It highlights the importance of heeding lessons learned from catastrophic incidents as well as the adoption of industry best practices and integration of Operation Excellence into the core business operations to prevent disasters. Concerns on unconventional production and the need for regulatory frameworks in emerging countries indicate that regulatory bodies need to catch up and fast track research efforts to regulate the unprecedented growth and expansion of the industry. When taken together as a whole, the global safety trends indicate that investments on safety or the lack thereof has a huge impact on business continuity and sustainability.
This paper was developed to give safety practitioners a better overview of the challenges, opportunities, new developments and trends shaping the global Oil and Gas industry.
Solving Community Protection for Inhabited Areas Surrounding a Drilling Site: A Case Study in Saudi Arabia
Dr. Elie Daher
September 28, 2015
A key Oil and Gas player required H2S safety solutions for their new onshore drilling project. A major challenge was protecting a community of approximately 500 homes situated within the 5km Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ). Preventing the potentially fatal consequences of an H2S release was of the utmost importance.
A cutting-edge community protection solution was implemented composed of eight units of gas and environmental monitors linked together to control the conditions within the EPZ. The innovative perimeter monitoring solution allowed environmental conditions to be monitored online in real-time. Training was done to ensure that the operator was supplied with qualified and trained H2S safety personnel and all other safety personnel during critical operations. Equipment such as gas detections system, handheld monitors, and breathing air packs were provided to ensure that all safety aspects are covered in this critical operation.
The customization and installation of a reliable, online perimeter monitoring system allowed continuous data stream that made remote monitoring of the vicinity, based on both RF and web technology available for instant tracking and monitoring. Real-time information accessible from anywhere in the world allowed the operator to be aware and be prepared for any emergencies that might occur. SMS notifications were also programmed in case of any emergency to ensure a prompt response. The system also provided a reliable data log for future analysis. The fact that the operator took considerable measures to look out for the community's safety helped improve relations with the public. Members of the affected community felt assured by the degree of precaution implemented, knowing that they would be warned promptly in the event of an emergency.
This case study presents an analysis of conventional and newer community protection systems and discusses in detail the significance of this innovation in dealing with rapidly expanding production near communities. The case study outlines how to make communities feel safe and how to conduct EPZ monitoring efficiently using state-of-the-art technologies and customizing equipment to suit unique worksite requirements.
Ensuring The Safety Of Onsite Personnel And Neighboring Community During Workover And Well-testing Activities With A High H2S Risk Potential – A Case Study
Dr. Elie Daher
October 27, 2014
OMV Petrom had a planned workover and well-testing activity on a well with high potential concentration of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) located 200 meters from a neighboring community. To ensure safety during the workover and well-testing activity, a leading oil and gas group in Central Europe undertook a careful preparation of processes, systems and its personnel. Considering the proximity of the wellsite to the community, they also needed to inform and educate the surrounding community.
Servizi Integrati di Sicurezza (S.I.S. S.r.l.), part of United Safety International Group was given the task to ensure the safety of personnel and neighboring community through effective preventive actions including extensive H2S training and prevailing wind monitoring. A site-specific Emergency Response Plan (ERP) was developed that defined the coverage of the Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ). Wind speed and direction was monitored for a period of four months prior to the drilling activity which allowed the identification of high risks areas in the event of a gas release.
A dedicated wireless H2S and sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas detection system was installed including a general alarm system for public awareness in case of a public evacuation. Rovers were dispatched continuously to monitor remote areas of the EPZ. The safety solutions company conducted H2S drills, man down simulations, and public evacuations in coordination with the operator and the local community. Prior to commencement of drilling activities, nearly 400 training certificates were released to personnel, contractors and sub-contractors.
This paper discusses lessons learned and best practices of emergency planning and management of the EPZ as critical elements of drilling operations. It highlights the continuous improvement of EPZ management methods and discusses the importance of engaging affected communities and residents to build confidence, partnerships and ultimately boost a company's public image. The paper also demonstrates the impact of corporate citizenship and responsible care practices beyond the immediate community.
New Learning Methods To Connect With The New Generation Of Workers In The Oil And Gas Industry
Dr. Elie Daher
August 25, 2014
Learning methods have changed dramatically in the last 20 years. The 90s and the early 2000s saw the migration of training from bricks and mortar classrooms to e-learning. As online courses became more common, Learning Management Systems (LMS) became more advanced. The result was an automation of the online training process delivered and tracked through Learning Management Systems.
Recently however there has been a rising level of disillusionment with e-learning and its effectiveness has been questioned. On one hand, managers feel like it has failed to deliver on early promises while, on the other hand, employees are understandably unenthusiastic about having to plough through hours of online courses on their own.
To offer the best of both worlds and provide cost-effective training while addressing the need for human support, blended learning was conceptualized. This concept was taken a step further with the addition of the ‘hands-on’ practical element. For many organizations, this is very much the state of learning in the workplace today. However, we are now beginning to see a new phase of workplace learning.
New information and communication technologies have unleashed radical new opportunities in teaching and learning. Researchers predict a new era and a complete revolution in the way people gain access to knowledge and information.
This paper attempts to expose the various learning theories. It presents a comparison between traditional learning and new learning methods and proposes an action plan for Oil and Gas companies to adopt should they desire to ride the new wave of learning methodology.
Safe Work Practices and Rescue Planning for Vertical Column Work during Turnaround: A Case Study
Dr. Elie Daher
March 17, 2014
Managing long term turnaround programs to carry out maintenance on offshore facilities can be rewarding for safety system companies and its customers because it maximizes efficiencies in the delivery of services by allowing continuity of learning and improvement.
A 60-day turnaround for an offshore facility gave a safety company and its customer in Angola the opportunity to improve processes and skills in emergency rescue operations. One of the work activities involved opening, cleaning, inspection and repair of a vertical Deethanizer Column that is over 60 feet high and only three (3) feet in diameter. At the top of each of three packed sections of the column is an 18" diameter man-way. This man-way is the only entry and exit point on the column which sits on the corner of the offshore platform, 52 feet above sea level.
For the safety provider, a major concern was how to rescue a crew member from inside the column, if injured or incapacitated considering the vertical column’s narrow diameter. The team needed a safe rescue procedure prior to the turnaround. With support from the Facility Engineers, a mock-up structure was designed to simulate one ring section of the column, using a section of 36" pipe with 18" man-ways.
This mock-up provided many benefits including the opportunity to install one of the trays as would be performed in the field, the familiarity with the installation procedures by allowing trial runs, and pre-fitting trays in the mock-up that ensured parts fitted and the dimensions were correct. Most importantly, it gave the rescue crews a chance to practice a rescue operation on the offshore platform.
This paper takes a detailed look at the best practices, lessons learned and steps undertaken to develop safe work practices and rescue operations during a turnaround in an offshore facility in Angola.
Improving EH&S Practices during Turnarounds in Facilities and Plants: A Process of Knowledge Capture and Transfer Worth Implementing
Dr. Elie Daher
September 30, 2013
A well-executed maintenance shutdown or turnaround in processing facilities or plants can represent a source of competitive advantage for an organization. It can drive commercial performance, boost morale and bring recognition to high performing teams keeping everyone safe.
Maintenance shutdowns or turnarounds represent an increasingly significant challenge and an increasingly significant opportunity. Understanding the various EH&S issues facing previous turnarounds and most importantly how they were addressed is essential for the success of subsequent activities.
This paper discusses how to ensure the capture and dissemination of the wealth of knowledge generated and how to make proper use in order to impact the efficiency and effectiveness of these projects while keeping everyone safe.
There are three places or situations that a project can and should gather learnings; the planning phase, execution phase and completion phase. To ensure the maximum benefit from knowledge capture and transfer, two best practices have been developed - Needs Assessment and the Stewardship Report.
The Needs Assessment is a process used to review the work with key management stakeholders. While systems and processes are designed to maximize the efficiency in the delivery of safety resources for planned tasks during the turnaround, the Needs Assessment proactively identifies areas that are likely to generate unplanned work. This enables the creation of readiness plans that let you effect change quickly, before unplanned work becomes an issue or a source for delay and extra cost.
The Stewardship Report is a document that is used at the conclusion of a project to examine and evaluate how the contractors and company personnel performed during the project. It is an unbiased, objective recap of everything that worked and what didn't work as well. This long term comprehensive strategy for information flow and technology innovation driven by customer feedback ensures that lessons are learnt, mistakes avoided and successes repeated. Corrective actions and solutions are proposed, discussed and documented for implementation prior to the next project.
This paper studies these two tools, Needs Assessment and Stewardship Report in detail and provides practical examples and tips on how they can ensure knowledge capture and transfer in their organization.
Safety Culture Maturity Model: A Process Worth Implementing?
Dr. Elie Daher
March 18, 2013
Safety culture has become a prevalent concern as recent incidents pointed to the lack of safe behavior or attitude. Organizations are struggling to improve their safety culture in a pragmatic way. Maturity is defined as an evolutionary improvement path from an ad hoc, immature process to a mature, disciplined process. It establishes a yardstick against which it is possible to judge, in a repeatable way, the maturity of an organization's planning process and compare it to the state of the practice of the industry.
The maturity model concept was initially developed by the Software Engineering Institute (SEI) as a mechanism to improve the way software is built and maintained. The model provides organisations with a five level process to assist them in developing their software engineering practices. The five levels are Initial, Repeatable, Defined, Managed and Optimising.
The safety culture maturity model was initially developed by Dr Mark Fleming, Chartered Psychologist in 2001. Ten elements were documented:
Management commitment and visibility
Communication
Productivity versus safety
Learning organisation
Safety resources
Participation
Shared perceptions about safety
Trust
Industrial relations and job satisfaction
Training
This paper attempts to explore the adequacy of the maturity model to Oil and gas companies and researches the published various implementations to identify the benefits of such maturity model. Some obvious benefits are a provision of known Maturity Level in relation to the safety culture, with recommendations on how to improve and move from one level to another.
Excellence in Safety Performance Has No Multicultural Barriers: A Case Study
Dr. Elie Daher
March 18, 2013
With the expanding global workforce, companies are faced with several barriers to any standardization or centralization plans. Challenges like language difference, local differences, interdependencies, size and maturity and mode of operation can create strong barriers to an effective rollout of a standard or a centralized process.
In 1998, United Safety started operation in Angola with a Canadian workforce. The strategy and intention was to nationalize as fast as possible to sustain a long term presence in the country and to operate effectively. For the first few years, the company had to go through a steep learning curve, getting educated on the differences between the cultures, the challenges of language and the various behaviour safety styles in terms of expectations, tolerance of risk and other safety factors observed by the local workforce.
In addition to the numerous practical challenges, establishment of a HSE culture and practices needs to take into account the culturally different ways of dealing with authority, risks, and individual responsibility, amongst a number of other factors. A lack of cultural competence can in itself lead to miscommunication and misunderstandings, which in turn can cause dangerous situations and accidents.
As the company core business is to provide safety solutions to its customers, it is critical to ensure that the company standards or work practices are persevered and applied irrespective of differences.
Through a rigorous process of recruiting, competency assessment, training, coaching and most importantly cultural understanding and exchange, the company managed to ramp up on their national workforce replacing all expatriate rig personnel in five years and replacing all their coordinators, quality control and office staff including the first General Manager in the next five years.
This case study discusses a successful implementation of standards and centralized processes in Angola to a national workforce, displacing progressively an expatriate community and getting them accepted by the customers. This paper also attempts to share those lessons and discusses failures, consequences and rewards.
Turnaround / Shutdown Best Practice of Centralized Dispatch, Distribution and Qa/Qc of Safety Services
Dr. Elie Daher
November 11, 2012
In shutdowns and turnarounds there are three groups interacting together during the event. The operation team (owners who get the equipment ready to work on), the mechanical maintenance team (typically made up of various contractors who perform the work) and the shared services team that support both of the above in getting their tasks completed, one of which is Safety Services.
Items such as, Breathing air delivery, gas detection/testing, confined space entry monitoring, high angle rescue and other constitute the main bulk of the shared safety services typically used on site during the shutdowns and turnarounds.
In most places, these services are thought of as extra requirement and as a cost center, although necessary and supported, safety isn't viewed as one of the productivity tools in a turnaround. They are typically left to the contractors to manage independently or in isolation creating redundancy in the amount of equipment available, incompatibility in the variety of brands and systems and duplication of efforts resulting in delays in tasks and a general poor perception of safety.
This paper demonstrates the effective use of a system of a a QA/QC process and a centralized distribution and dispatch for on site safety services such as Q-Cycle, Resource Track and Site Courier of United Safety, in achieving safety goals as well as schedule productivity gains. This system and process can benefit both the owner/ operating companies as well as the general contractors as either or both can use it. It reviews an electronic method of tracking, reporting and data capture of the distribution and management of site safety services. Centralized distribution and dispatch system can manage daily needs as well as provide data for future planning. In addition, the paper covers the case study and results of this system used in a large, major IOC turnaround; how the data benefited the operator and the mechanical contracting group as well as saved time and money through service quality and inventory management.
Application of quantitative Risk assessment for planning high sour wells or working in an H2S Field close to populated areas.
Dr. Elie Daher
September 11, 2012
H2S or Hydrogen Sulfite is an IDLH (Immediate Danger to Life and Health) poisonous gas and its exposure to humans leaves serious effects that could range from death to lasting physiological and neurological sicknesses.
H2S gas is also odorless, colorless and heavier than air which makes detection by humans very difficult.
H2S occurs naturally in most hydrocarbon bearing formations and could also be generated through well interventions like fracting and flooding.
Oil and Gas companies typically plan for any potential H2S presence and leaks to protect their site employees and contractors. They use gas monitoring devices, supply breathing air to required personnel and provide emergency plans to evacuate or rescue personnel who are potentially exposed.
One area of concern that is often being neglected is the protection of the community where the drilling occurs in highly populated area in the event of a gas release.
As H2S gas leaks in the air, solar heating/radiative cooling determined by cloud coverage and latitude from the equator, wind speed and direction, surface roughness, terrain and height from the ground are all factors that will affect where the plume will be headed and whether it will reach a populated area with a concentration that is harmful to the community.
In addition to the above factors, source elements like diameter, initial jet density, velocity, proximity, obstacles and fallouts are important to building the dispersion model and predicting the impact on the nearby community.
The result of the study would determine an EPZ (Emergency Planning Zone) which allows us to implement monitoring, alarming and evacuation plans within the EPZ.
This paper aims to discuss how to conduct dispersion modeling as quantitave risk assememnt method and provide recommendation on how to choose and run models in order to evaluate the risks and proactively implement emergency plans to protect the populated areas near H2S areas
Safety KPIs during Shutdown Turnaround - What to Measure and How to Impact the Overall Economics
Dr. Elie Daher
April 02, 2012
A turnaround is a planned, periodic total or partial shutdown of a refinery process unit or facility to perform maintenance, overhaul and repair operations and to inspect, test and replace process materials and equipment. This is a time sensitive operation that requires a major expenditure and focused project management 24 hour duration. Any delays due to operational or safety issues can adversely impact the shutdown time therefore increasing costs and impacting the revenue of the facility. With a high price of services, the pressure is greater than ever to deliver an efficient turnaround with virtually no incidents and on time. Safety management plays a crucial role in the turnaround activity.
Safety ensures regulations are followed, training and certifications are completed and preventive plans are in place and enforced. It starts by safety contractor selection, followed by a proactive safety plan and a flawless and timely execution.
How do we ensure that the safety management is conducted efficiently in order to impact the bottom line of the turnaround and limit delays?
Research by Liberty Mutual Research Institue for Safety demonstrates that for every $1 invested in safety there is a $3 to $6 return on investment, and our own research tells us that for every $1 spent on "tool time", $7 is spent on service costs associate with that work. Organizations need to aim for a safety excellence culture as this contributes to profitability and benefits employees and c ommunities. Safety excellence is the result of an effective safety management process. In order to monitor safety excellence, we will illustrate a system we call "The Safety Process Map".
This paper explores the deliverables generated by this map and the value they bring to turnarounds and shutdowns. These deliverables move beyond the standard Total Recordable Incident Frequency (TRIF) or Lost Time incidents reporting by auditing conformance to policies and procedure around activities like work permits issued and Confined Space Entry (CSE). Our position is that a process that can systemically identify when and why non-conformance to policy and procedure occur offers the opportunity for proactive mitigation activities. These proactive activities act on what we believe are often the root causes of negative incidents.
Public Protection and Gas Monitoring; Its Impact on the Community, Environment and the Bottom Line
Dr. Elie Daher
April 02, 2012
During typical well operations, production activities or processing plants, especially in sour environments, a barrier between the site and populated areas such as towns and villages is often overlooked. Operators and contractors are focusing on protecting site personnel while relying on simple general public guidelines to alert the neighboring communities. While the industry is seeing great progress towards a digital oilfield concept where monitoring of production and optimization of flow rates and fluids are remotely actuated to reduce the burden of manning the various oilfields and maximizing production of the reservoir, these concepts did not filter to the safety management of sites and to the public protection procedures that would apply on these sites.
A recent technology failure on March 6th 2011 at the Karachaganak Field resulted in a fatal outcome1. This incident occurred in March 2011, where one employee died and a second employee was found in a nearby hanger in a critical condition. Both employees were conducting cleaning works at the time of the incident. Individual protection gear, a gas indicator and special safety instructions all failed to save the life of the contractor's employee from Karachaganak's fatal atmosphere during the technology failure.
Village resident and leader of the village campaign for relocation, stated: "In accordance with official documents, in the event of an emergency at a well site, a plume of hydrogen sulfide could reach the village within 10–30 minutes, depending on the direction of the wind. The contractor is only obliged to notify village residents via a signal from a special tower located in the village and it is local authorities who must ensure the evacuation of residents. How this is to be conducted in such a short period of time remains unclear. Moreover, Berezovka residents themselves do not know what to do in such a situation; and what if an emission occurs at night? It is disturbing to think of the consequences that may occur in the event of an H2S situation".
Another technical failure in Canada in 2009 caused the release of 30,000 cubic meters of gas containing 6200ppm of H2S. The nearby community was not alerted until six hours after the release causing massive concern over procedures for public protection2.
This paper discusses lessons learned from the digital oilfield concepts and its applicability to remote safety monitoring and safety processes. In addition, suggestions for improvements and coordination with local villages and their authorities are also discussed.
Oil & Gas Competency Management: An Innovative Way to Attract, Develop, Maximize, and Retain Human Capital
Dr. Elie Daher
September 25, 2011
Oil & gas investments in education are growing rapidly and becoming increasingly strategic. The capability to cultivate and expand the human capital and, at the same time, develop and respond to technological advances, has become a major factor that distinguishes operators who attract, nurture, motivate and retain their working forces from those who do not. Most oil & gas companies (especially major resource holders) are striving to keep up with the technical discipline knowledge required and to stay abreast with the advances in techniques and methods in order to perform efficiently. But is this enough? Moreover, software solutions for petrotechnical information management and digital infrastructure; exploration; reservoir characterization; production; reservoir simulation; and petroleum economics, risk, and reserves are recognized as an increasingly integral part of business operations for oil & gas companies. As a result, operators have been very receptive to educational initiatives that go beyond the basic, traditional, domain discipline classroom training sessions. We are witnessing an industry trend of developing the "new multi-skilled breed of oil & gas professionals" performing in the digital age through a complete training methods covering domain science, software applications, workflows delivered using experiential, action and immersive learning methods.
Developing the new multi-skilled breed of professionals in their disciplines requires good understanding of their current competencies in the discipline, in the targeted job function and the proficiency of the various software or technical tools that will be used to perform.
Competency management therefore becomes crucial and tit the base of every learning and development program. Current E&P Competency Management should cover comprehensive and formal needs analysis, assessment, development, and tracking system of multiple skills specifically designed for each job function whether they are geoscientists, reservoir engineers, drilling, petroleum or production It should identify individual development requirements, create personalized educational plans, and provide a learning sequence that starts teaching domain concepts and theories, including technology workshops and hands-on experience, in addition to mentoring, evaluation, and certification to ensure that learning goals translate into results on the job. The competency-based learning and development plan should help transfer knowledge from the classrooms and workshops onto working results. The program should also address the need to plan, certify, and track skill developments of technical staff.
This paper therefore intends to
Highlight the importance of the methodology used when carrying out competency management to develop professionals in their disciplines as well as the related technologies, and
Go over a few practical case studies, analyzing how E&P organizations have adopted such competency management and developed adequate Learning and development plans for their employees.
Business Process Re-Engineering in the Upstream Sector of E&P Companies. A study of Staff Perceptions and Critical Success Factors
Dr. Elie Daher
June 09, 2003
This paper investigates the perceptions of staff with regard to critical success factors (CSFs) for successful Business Process Re-engineering (BPR) for the upstream sector of the Exploration and Production (E&P) companies. The conclusion and recommendations were drawn after a detailed review of literature discussing BPR implementations in various industries and using the results of a study performed on a specific implementation of a BPR project for Information Management in a mid-size E&P company.
This paper shows that the factors deemed most important for successful BPR included items such as top management support, commitment and understanding of BPR, communication, empowerment and alleviation of downsizing fears. Some unique characteristics for the E&P sector have particular bearing on the application of BPR. They include the existence of many intricate overlapping processes with multiple stakeholders, changes in policy direction or in Oil prices, the existence of a professional workforce and the existence of defined internal organizational boundaries. Suggestions on how to maximize the chances of success in the BPR are discussed.
Tags: Change Management, Leadership, Personal Branding
5 Workshops
Cultural Intelligence and Adaptability
Dr. Elie Daher
May 08, 2025
In a world where businesses are increasingly interconnected, cultural intelligence is no longer just an asset—it's a necessity.
As leaders, understanding and adapting to diverse cultural dynamics is crucial for driving meaningful success in today's globalized environment. The ability to navigate and leverage cultural differences can transform potential barriers into powerful catalysts for innovation and growth.
"Cultural intelligence is the X-factor in leadership. It’s what separates those who merely manage from those who truly lead in a global context." Research shows that organizations with culturally intelligent leaders are more innovative, adaptable, and successful in international markets.
My approach focuses on helping leaders harness this vital skill, enabling them to create inclusive environments where diverse perspectives are not only welcomed but actively sought out.
By understanding that "culture drives success," leaders can learn to "adapt and thrive in a multicultural world," ultimately leading their organizations to greater heights.
Tags: Change Management, Leadership, Personal Branding
Personal Branding & Influence: Turn reputation into opportunity.
Dr. Elie Daher
May 01, 2025
In the past, your resume spoke for you. Today, your brand does.
This pillar is built around the core principle that your personal brand isn’t about self-promotion — it’s about intentional visibility, authentic positioning, and delivering consistent value to those you serve.
Whether you're an executive in transition, a consultant growing your client base, or a founder building authority in your niche — personal branding is your strategic advantage.
Tags: Change Management, Leadership, Personal Branding
Future-Ready Skills Workshop
Dr. Elie Daher
May 01, 2025
The future of work is already here, reshaping industries and redefining what it means to lead. With the rise of AI, digital transformation, and a multigenerational workforce, leaders must be equipped with the skills necessary to navigate this new terrain.
Thought Leadership: "The future of work is not a distant concept—it’s a present reality." Leaders who fail to prepare for this future risk being left behind.
My approach is centered on developing "future-ready skills" that empower leaders to embrace AI integration, drive digital transformation, and effectively manage a diverse workforce.
The key is to "lead with foresight, prepare for tomorrow," ensuring that leaders are not only responsive to the changes of today but are also proactively shaping the future of their organizations. As the saying goes, "The future belongs to those who prepare for it today."
Tags: Change Management, Leadership, Personal Branding
Thinkers360 Credentials
18 Badges
Radar
Blog
1 Article/Blog
Breaking Free from Comfort – The First Step to Reinventing Yourself
Thinkers360
May 08, 2025
Are You Holding Yourself Back?
You’ve worked hard to build your career. You’ve climbed the ladder, secured a respectable title, and gained expertise in your field. But let me ask you this:
Do you feel like you’re capable of more, but unsure how to take the next step?
Are you trapped in the safety of a career that no longer excites you?
Does the thought of reinventing yourself seem overwhelming or even unnecessary?
If so, you’re not alone. The greatest threat to your growth isn’t failure—it’s comfort.
In today’s fast-changing world, staying in your comfort zone is more expensive than you think.
The Real Cost of Staying Comfortable
Once upon a time, success was about titles, promotions, and stability. But today’s world rewards those who are visible, adaptable, and forward-thinking.
Professionals who fail to build their personal brand find themselves becoming replaceable.
Industry shifts happen faster than ever, making outdated expertise irrelevant.
The longer you wait to pivot, the harder it becomes to break free.
Comfort is a silent career killer. While you’re staying the same, others are reinventing themselves, leveraging their expertise, and turning their knowledge into new opportunities.
The New Era: Welcome to the Hybrid Economy
We are living in what I call the Hybrid Economy, where success no longer depends solely on credentials. Instead, it thrives at the intersection of:
️ The Knowledge Economy– What you know
️ The Creator Economy– How you communicate what you know
️ The Intimacy Economy – How you build trust and influence
If you want to stand out, attract opportunities, and future-proof your career, you need to embrace all three.
Your personal brand is the bridge between where you are and where you want to be.
Your First Step to Reinvention
So, how do you start breaking free from comfort and positioning yourself as a powerful personal brand?
Step 1: Audit Your Current Brand
Google yourself—what shows up?
Ask a trusted colleague: How would you describe my strengths in one sentence?
Review your LinkedIn profile—does it reflect your future self or just your past?
Step 2: Define Your Mission What impact do you want to make beyond your current job title? Success today isn’t about what you do—it’s about the value you create and how people perceive you.
Step 3: Commit to Visibility Start positioning yourself as a thought leader by sharing insights, writing, and engaging with your industry. Your expertise is your most valuable asset—use it.
Your Challenge This Week:
Take one small action toward building your personal brand:
Share a LinkedIn post about a lesson you’ve learned in your career
Update your LinkedIn headline to reflect your expertise, not just your job title
Reach out to a mentor or industry peer and start a conversation
Reinvention doesn’t happen overnight—but the first step is deciding you won’t settle.
I’ll be guiding you through this journey step by step. In the next newsletter, we’ll explore how to define your unique edge and become unforgettable.
What’s Holding You Back? Hit Reply and tell me—what’s your biggest challenge when it comes to reinventing yourself?
Until next time, Dr. Elie DaherAuthor | Executive Coach | Personal Brand Strategist
Tags: Change Management, Leadership, Personal Branding
Opportunities
1 Keynote
Reimagining Leadership in the Age of AI
Location: Flexible Fees: Flexible
Service Type: Service Offered
Why the Future Belongs to the Adaptable, the Authentic, and the Bold
By Dr. Elie Daher, Author of Reimagining Leadership and Reimagining You*
In this keynote, Dr. Elie Daher explores how leadership is evolving in the AI-driven era. He highlights the importance of Adaptability Quotient (AQ), Emotional Intelligence (EQ), and Personal Brand Intelligence (PBQ) for 2030 leaders. Emphasizing human connection and authenticity, Dr. Daher argues that the future of leadership lies in continuous reinvention and strategic self-branding, positioning leaders to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Join Thinkers360 for free! Are you a Reader/Writer, Thought Leader/Influencer (looking to increase your earnings), or an Enterprise User (looking to work with experts)?
AQ Level 2 Professional Certification
AQai Certification (Foundation ICF-CCE)
Prompt Engineering
Unlocking EQ
EQ Assessor Certificacion
President of Association of Corporate Executive Coaches (ACEC)
Member and Founding Board Member of MGSCC – Middle East
"The next trade war isn’t about goods. It’s about relevance."
What Will the Ideal Leader of 2030 Be Like?
Redefining leadership: Multiculturalism and flexibility
Traditional leadership is extinct—a relic of the past.
Leadership can be a talent, but it is also a skill that can be learned and refined.
Before you receive your best life lesson, you need to make a mistake—a grand one.
A paycheck is important, but it is no longer the end-all-be-all of a career.
Join the Movement: Reimagining Leadership for a Thriving Future
Reimagining You: The Power of First Steps for Personal Branding
Breaking Free from Comfort – The First Step to Reinventing Yourself
Is Your Emotional Intelligence Future-Proofed for the Age of AI?
Leadership in the GCC: How I Learned to Navigate Cultural Diversity and Drive Success
The Importance of Cultural Sensitivity in a Multicultural Workplace
Adaptability: The Missing Link in Oil & Gas Safety - Are You Prepared for the Future?
If You're a Salaried Employee, I've Got Bad News: The 9 to 5 Era is Ending!
Have You Ever Wondered Why There Are Mirrors in Elevators and Lobbies?
So You're Connected on LinkedIn - So What?
Are You Brave Enough to Unlearn?
Annual Review System
"Are You Ready to Lead in the Digital Frontier? Exploring the Power of the Digital Native Mindset"
Are You Leading Your Organization Into the Future or Stuck in the Past? Discover Your Leadership Mindset Maturity
The seven leadership lessons I learnt from my newly met African friends
"Are You Harnessing the Full Potential of Your Team? Discover the Power of Effective Team Dynamics"
"Resilience: The Unbeatable Skill for the Future Workforce. How are You Equipping Your Team to Thrive?"
"Is Poor Communication Hurting Your Team's Performance? Ways to Improve Today"
Books are now available on "www.ReimaginingLeadership.me"
Are You Ready to Embrace the Seven Mindsets and Succeed in the Modern World?
Master the Seven Mindsets of Modern Leadership" - Join us for a Book Signing in Beirut and Dubai to "Reimagining Leadership
Released Today: 'Reimagining Leadership
Cultivating Exceptional Leadership for Unprecedented Organizational Growth: A Path to Success
"The Foreword That Will Revolutionize Your Approach to Leadership: Insights from Professor Peter Hawkins"
Reimagining You The 10-Step Blueprint to a Million-Dollar Personal Brand
Reimagining Leadership: Empowering Growth and Performance Through Purposeful Change and Constructive Culture
Reimagining You Book Review: CB Bowman-Ottomanelli, Bestselling Author, Association of Corporate Executive Coaches
Panel Discussion: The Future of Work
Panel Session 8: Embracing Chronic Unease: A Vital Leadership Behaviour for HSE Excellence
Presentation on theme: "Crisis Management A Review of Best Practices Elie Daher."— Presentation transcript:
Book Signing: Reimagining Leadership
What Sundays Taught Me About Life
"My job isn't to keep people forever. It's to build them so well, they outgrow the need to stay-and still choose to."
Certified Chair
EQ Coach Certification (Level 2)
Unlocking EQ
Revolutionizing Tool Management in Oil and Gas Facilities
Addressing Safety Challenges of Operating in Sour Gas Fields: A Case Study from the Middle East
ESTABLISHING ORGANIZATIONAL BELIEF IN HSE PREPARING THE NEW WORKFORCE ELIE DAHER
Breaking Free from Comfort – The First Step to Reinventing Yourself
