Latest news with #OccupationalHealth&Safety
Sharjah 24
6 days ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Municipality qualified 23 staff members as ISO auditors
Developing capabilities for institutional excellence Bodour Al Hammadi, Director of the Institutional Development Department, acknowledged that the workshops are part of the municipality's strategic objective to improve human capital and build internal teams. The goal is to attain the highest quality standards and institutional accreditation by empowering staff to discover internal improvement opportunities and execute best practices. A dedicated audit team was constituted from diverse departments to ensure institutional excellence in accordance with worldwide quality standards. Comprehensive training She stated that the programme consisted of four intensive workshops spread over four weeks. These courses introduced attendees to major ISO standards such as ISO 22301 (Business Continuity), ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety), ISO 31000 (Risk Management), and ISO 9001. The training also included practical workshops on internal audit systems that were in line with these criteria. Developing deep understanding and audit capability Al Hammadi noted that the courses enhanced employees' awareness of ISO requirements and improved their capacity to conduct effective internal audits. We expect this to enhance institutional performance and ensure continuous compliance with international standards. As a result, participants obtained internal auditor certifications for the applicable ISO standards in business continuity, health and safety, risk management, and quality.
Time Business News
21-05-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
ISO Certification in Pakistan
In 2025, the way businesses in Pakistan operate is undergoing a transformation. From small enterprises in Sialkot to multinational companies in Karachi, more and more businesses are recognizing the value of ISO certification — not just as a badge of honor but as a strategic tool for growth, credibility, and sustainability. But what's driving this trend? Why are CEOs, quality managers, and business owners across Pakistan now prioritizing ISO certification more than ever before? Let's explore the real reasons. ISO (International Organization for Standardization) sets globally recognized standards that help businesses improve quality, safety, efficiency, and consistency. In Pakistan, these standards are gaining ground because they provide a structured framework to meet both local regulations (like PSQCA) and international requirements. Whether it's ISO 9001 for Quality Management, ISO 14001 for Environmental Management, or ISO 45001 for Occupational Health & Safety, each standard gives businesses a way to enhance trust, streamline processes, and compete confidently in local and global markets. Here are the top reasons why Pakistani businesses are turning to ISO standards this year: For exporters in Pakistan, ISO certification has become non-negotiable. Many buyers in Europe, the Middle East, and North America now require proof of certification before signing contracts. For textile, food, surgical, and engineering companies, ISO certification opens new global doors. Buyers are becoming more quality-conscious. An ISO-certified business shows that it follows international best practices, manages risk, and is committed to customer satisfaction. That's a powerful message in any market. ISO implementation isn't just about external recognition. it's about building better internal systems. From employee accountability to process optimization, businesses that implement ISO standards report better team coordination, fewer errors, and lower operating costs. With increasing enforcement from authorities like PSQCA and provincial food authorities, ISO helps companies align with both national regulations and international expectations, minimizing the risk of penalties and product recalls. One of the most surprising trends of 2025 is the adoption of ISO certification by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Pakistan. ISO gives SMEs a professional edge and levels the playing field when competing with larger players — especially when bidding on public sector projects or supply chain contracts. Getting ISO certified might seem daunting, but with the right support, it's a simple and rewarding journey. The process generally includes: Gap assessment to identify your current status Designing documentation and SOPs as per ISO standards Training your team and implementing changes Conducting internal audits Final certification through an accredited body Choosing a trusted ISO consultancy in Pakistan is key to avoiding delays, extra costs, and rejections during the audit phase. Absolutely. In a time when markets are evolving and customer expectations are rising, ISO certification helps Pakistani businesses stay relevant, reliable, and ready for the future. Whether you're looking to enhance product quality, build client trust, meet export requirements, or simply bring more structure to your operations ISO certification is a smart, long-term investment. Get ISO certified in Pakistan and take your business to the next level in 2025 and beyond. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Business Journals
09-05-2025
- Health
- Business Journals
Happy hour? Understanding the impact of alcohol in the workplace
In many workplaces, alcohol is embedded in company culture. From weekly happy hours to beer carts and kegs on tap, businesses — especially in the Triangle's tech and startup scene — use alcohol as a perk to attract employees and foster team bonding. According to an American Addiction Centers survey of 3,800 Americans, one-third of American workers think after-work drinks with colleagues is a good team-bonding method. While these initiatives may seem harmless or even beneficial, they can have significant consequences for mental health, productivity and inclusivity. The prevalence of workplace drinking Workplace drinking is more common than many realize. According to Occupational Health & Safety, large federal surveys show that 24% of workers drank during the workday at least once in the past year. Additionally, 20% of workers and managers reported that a coworker's drinking, on or off the job, jeopardized their productivity and safety. Another study by the American Addiction Centers found 23% of employees have consumed alcohol during work hours. "From a social perspective, alcohol in the workplace is seen as acceptable and there is often an unspoken rule that everyone participates," says Tameka Wade Brewington, a mental health and substance use counselor with 27 years of experience. Brewington, a board member of the Addiction Professionals of North Carolina and owner of Real Talk Counseling in Charlotte, North Carolina, helps working professionals navigate career and life transitions. "Deals are made at the bar or on the golf course and most professional events and conferences include happy hours," she says. "The problem is, if you're drinking excessively, there will be consequences, both personally and professionally." expand While some companies promote moderate alcohol consumption to build camaraderie, workplace drinking can become a slippery slope. Employees may feel pressured to participate and those in recovery or with a family history of substance abuse may find these environments alienating or triggering. The mental health consequences Alcohol use is deeply linked to mental health. Studies connect excessive drinking with higher rates of anxiety, depression and stress. For professionals managing high workloads and tight deadlines, alcohol may serve as a coping mechanism, masking deeper issues rather than addressing them. Over time, casual workplace drinking can contribute to burnout, job dissatisfaction and substance use disorders. "Because drinking is so normalized, many people struggle to recognize when they have an addiction," says Brewington. Since networking and socializing in corporate America often involve alcohol, many functioning alcoholics exist in the workplace, she adds. "We have men and women who go to work, perform their duties, manage families and still drink at least two drinks a day — every day," Brewington says. "But alcohol is progressive. Over time, you'll need more to get the same effect." expand . The productivity and liability costs Beyond mental health, workplace drinking has tangible business consequences. A Washington University School of Medicine study found that 9% of full-time U.S. workers — nearly 11 million people — met the diagnostic criteria for alcohol use disorder (AUD). Employees with severe AUD reported missing 32 workdays per year due to illness, injury or absenteeism — more than double the number of days missed by employees without AUD. In total, workers with AUD account for more than 232 million missed workdays annually. Employees who frequently drink during or after work may experience decreased cognitive function, impaired decision-making and lower productivity. According to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, workers with alcohol problems were 2.7 times more likely than others to have injury-related absences. Additionally, a hospital emergency department study found that 35% of patients with occupational injuries were at-risk drinkers. While social drinking may seem harmless, companies encouraging alcohol consumption risk legal liability if an intoxicated employee causes harm. Rethinking workplace culture Rather than relying on alcohol to foster workplace connections, companies can adopt alternative strategies to promote a positive and inclusive environment: Wellness programs: Encourage mental health initiatives such as mindfulness workshops or exercise classes. Alcohol-free social events: Host team-building activities that don't revolve around drinking such as volunteer days, outdoor excursions or cooking classes. Mocktail and coffee bars: Provide non-alcoholic options for social gatherings. Flexible work policies: Support mental well-being by prioritizing work-life balance with flexible scheduling and remote work options. "People who struggle with alcohol use disorder drink on autopilot — it's their way of coping with stress," Brewington says. "They can't wait to get off work to have a drink and unwind. But addiction often masks another issue, filling a void caused by stress or anxiety. It's crucial to find healthier ways to manage those feelings. And if someone can't manage their reliance on alcohol alone, there are resources available to help." Caroline Barnhill is a freelance writer.
Associated Press
07-02-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETY WELCOMES STASIA DEMARCO AS CONTENT EDITOR
Occupational Health & Safety, providing worker safety-triad insights since 1932, is pleased to welcome Stasia DeMarco to the team as Content Editor. 'With a strong background in journalism and content creation, I am excited to bring my skills to the occupational health and safety field. ' — Stasia DeMarco WOODLAND HILLS, CA, UNITED STATES, February 7, 2025 / / -- Occupational Health & Safety, providing worker safety-triad insights since 1932, a division of Converge360 and 1105 Media, is pleased to announce the addition of Stasia DeMarco to the team as Content Editor. DeMarco will play a key role in delivering timely and essential news on occupational health and safety to our audience. 'I am so excited to have Stasia come on board,' said David Kopf, publisher and executive editor of Occupational Health & Safety. 'She brings a wealth of experience from several aspects of journalism that will greatly enhance our online news and features, webinar programs, and the SafetyPod podcast. Stasia is a perfect fit!' DeMarco comes to Occupational Health & Safety with a robust background in journalism. Previously, she worked as a Multimedia Editor for CBS Philly, Adjunct Associate Professor of Graduate and Undergraduate programs at Drexel University, Broadcast Journalist at KYW Newsradio, and Book Reviewer for The Philadelphia Inquirer, among other positions. In her new role, DeMarco will be responsible for writing news and feature articles, hosting our sponsor and editorial webinars, co-hosting the SafetyPod worker health and safety podcast, and managing our social media channels. 'With a strong background in journalism and content creation, I am excited to bring my skills to the occupational health and safety field. I look forward to informing, engaging, and contributing to conversations that promote safer and healthier workplaces,' said DeMarco. Kopf encouraged media relations and marketing professionals in the workplace health and safety industry to add DeMarco to their news distribution lists. She can be reached at [email protected]. About Occupational Health & Safety Occupational Health & Safety provides the workplace health and safety market with the latest news, information and insights. While we cover a wide variety of topics, every issue of our print/digital magazine, as well as all our online media and services, is committed to covering the foundational safety triad of industrial hygiene, PPE and training to keep workers safe and productive. Converge360 For more than two decades, our readers have trusted our B2B industry insights and expert editorial voice in the areas of education, enterprise IT and development, safety, security and the channel. We bring our clients top-quality programs tailored to meet the nuanced needs of their businesses and connect them with the high-level, experienced professionals they want to reach. Mallory Bastionell 1105 Media Inc +1 818-814-5200 X LinkedIn Other Legal Disclaimer:
