Sharjah: University Hospital Sharjah (UHS), and Petrofac, an international service provider to the oil and gas production and processing industry, are collaborating to deliver a programme of wellness events for Petrofac’s employees.
An inaugural seminar focused on the importance of travel health, chronic and long-term health conditions, prevention strategies, health education and welfare. UHS’ health-care experts shared their knowledge and discussed strategies for preventing medical problems before they advance to more serious stages. They highlighted the physical and mental health status of Petrofac’s team members and the importance of their overall safety and wellbeing.
“General health promotion in the workplace shows employees that the organisation recognises that both the employer and the employee share some extent of responsibility for the employee’s health. It shows the employee that their health is of importance to the organisation. And it should be important. Healthier employees mean fewer absences and a lower turnover rate,” said Dr Ali Obaid, CEO of UHS.
Meanwhile, Brent Pasula, PhD, Petrofac’s Group Head, Health, Safety, Security, Environment and Integrity Assurance, pointed out that with over 13,500 employees at Petrofac facilities across the world, their mental and physical health is a priority.
“We are grateful for UHS’s expertise in bringing this wellbeing initiative to life which is founded on values that sit at the heart of everything we do; from the innovative, high-quality and responsive services we offer to the way we keep our people safe,” said Pasula.
Dr Sajedah M Shaltoni, Head of Department, and Consultant, Family Medicine, advised the company’s employees to plan their travel well in advance, ideally six to eight weeks ahead, verifying if any vaccinations or medical preparations may be required.
She also stressed the importance of being aware of the potential health risks when travelling to any new destination. “When undertaking international travel, take conditions such as altitude, humidity, microbes and temperature into account as they can all impact our wellbeing. Pay close attention to hygiene when staying in less-developed locations,” she advised.
UHS offers comprehensive pre- and post-travel consultations, immunisation and specialised medication for anyone planning overseas travel.
