Brunei working to ensure safety of oil & gas workforce, OPITO says

Brunei has become the first country in the world to commission International Minimum Industry Standard Training (IMIST) in an attempt to ensure the safety of its 20,000-strong oil and gas industry workforce, OPITO has informed. 

Oil and gas skills organization OPITO said on Wednesday that this follows the Bruneian government putting around 3,000 front line worksite supervisors through the OPITO global standard for health and safety training earlier this year.

The organization also stated that the country has now set a deadline of November 2017 to roll IMIST out to people in this role.

IMIST was launched by OPITO in 2011 to enhance workforce safety and competence by providing a comprehensive and consistent level of training across the world.

It is used by oil and gas companies in almost 50 countries around the world with Brunei becoming the first country to introduce its use for workers engaged in exploration and production activities.

Steve England, Head of HSSE at the Energy and Industry Department Prime Minister’s Office, said: “The energy sector is a core driver of Brunei’s economy. It accounts for more than 60 percent of Brunei’s GDP.

“In line with our National Vision 2035 to have sustainable energy for Brunei Darussalam’s prosperity, we aim to boost the skills of Bruneians to achieve the vision’s goals. The introduction of this first phase of minimum HSE standards is the beginning of our commitment towards that vision.”

Mahkota Maju Sdn Bhd, Brunei LNG, and Megamas Training Company are three approved invigilation centers which will provide training in a classroom and digital learning format, with more approved centers to follow.

David Doig, chief executive officer of OPITO Group, said: “IMIST provides uniformity in training and ensures that everyone, regardless of their employer, role or discipline, has the same basic safety understanding and can perform their role to the same standard.

“We have worked closely with the Brunei Government on the implementation of IMIST and firmly believe their commitment will set a precedent in terms of how energy-producing nations train their workforce.”