PENGERANG, 25 Nov. – The Safety and Health Research Group (RG) from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) proudly participated in the PRefChem HSSE & Sustainability Day 2024 held at the Pengerang Integrated Complex (PIC). The event featured 17 booths showcasing cutting-edge technologies and solutions related to health, safety, security, and the environment (HSSE).
Exhibitors included a diverse mix of companies, consultants, universities, and government authorities, such as the Department of Occupational Safety and Health Johor. Representing UTM were three groups – Safety and Health RG, the Process System Engineering Centre (PROSPECT), and the Building Information Modelling Research Group (BIMRG).
Showcasing Technology in Safety and Health
With this year’s theme focusing on technology in HSSE, Safety and Health RG, led by Assoc. Prof. Ir. Dr. Mimi Haryani Hassim, made concerted efforts to highlight UTM’s technological advancements. They collaborated with other UTM research groups to present innovative solutions for improving safety and health practices.
Safety and Health RG demonstrated their Virtual Reality (VR) tool for Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) training. This tool, developed under a research project funded by the Royal Academy of Engineering, UK, was a joint effort between Monash University, De La Salle University (Philippines), and UTM.
The booth also featured contributions from UTM’s Centre for Artificial Intelligence & Robotics (CAIRO), which showcased a robotic machine designed for inspection, cleaning, and monitoring confined spaces. This technology aims to reduce human intervention, thereby increasing safety and operational efficiency.
Additionally, the Disaster Preparedness and Prevention Centre (DPPC) from UTM Kuala Lumpur exhibited their Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping technology for early detection and control of natural disasters. UTM’s Security Unit rounded off the showcase with their state-of-the-art system called the Security Divisions, Security Monitoring Operation Centre (SMOC) as the UTM Command Centre. It is an integrated monitoring security system based on Internet of Things (IoT) which comprises of closed-circuit television (CCTV), Drone, GuardExpert Pro, Door Access, Smart Barrier and Body Worn Camera. This is currently the most advanced of its kind implemented in a Malaysian university.
Recognizing Excellence and Innovation
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PRefChem Pengerang, Joost Emmen, along with his team, visited UTM’s booth and expressed admiration for the cutting-edge research and technological innovations presented. They conveyed their appreciation for UTM’s active participation and commitment to enhancing safety and sustainability.
A Platform for Progress
The event also included an opening speech and forum sessions that highlighted PRefChem’s dedication to strengthening safety, health, and sustainability practices. These discussions emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation in tackling modern HSSE challenges.
UTM’s presence at the PRefChem HSSE & Sustainability Day 2024 not only showcased its technological prowess but also reinforced its role as a leader in advancing safety and health solutions through research and innovation. The university looks forward to further collaborations and opportunities to contribute to industrial advancements in HSSE practices.
