Abu Dhabi launches new platform to regulate hazardous materials safely

In a significant step toward strengthening public safety and environmental protection, the Abu Dhabi Hazardous Materials Management Centre has launched the Abu Dhabi Hazardous Materials Platform (ADHM) — a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing the safe handling and regulation of hazardous substances across the emirate.

The new platform serves as a centralised, authoritative source of hazardous materials data, offering a comprehensive framework aligned with international best practices, including those of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). Developed in line with the Globally Harmonised System (GHS) and occupational health and safety standards, the ADHM supports various sustainability objectives, spanning economic development, clean energy, industry, and public health.

Described as one of the most comprehensive databases of its kind globally, the platform includes detailed technical data on the physical and chemical properties of substances, best practices for storage and transportation, and guidance on the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for each material. By providing this depth of information, the platform seeks to protect workers, the environment, and the wider community from the risks associated with hazardous materials.

Speaking on the launch, Major General Ahmed Saif bin Zaitoon Al Muhairi, Commander-in-Chief of Abu Dhabi Police, said:

“The launch of the Abu Dhabi Hazardous Materials Platform marks a pivotal step toward ensuring a safer environment through the implementation of a comprehensive regulatory system. It not only reinforces public trust but also addresses the needs of critical sectors across the country.”

Khalfan Abdulla Al Mansoori, Acting Director General of the Abu Dhabi Hazardous Materials Management Centre, highlighted the platform’s broader role in sustainable development:

“This initiative represents a key component of our strategy to create a robust legislative framework for hazardous materials management. It strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a regional and global leader in environmental safety and supports our commitment to sustainability and societal well-being.”

Educational and regulatory impact

Beyond regulation, the platform also plays a vital educational role, raising awareness among stakeholders and the public, and fostering a culture of safety and compliance. Its launch underscores the Centre’s mission to establish a sustainable, integrated hazardous materials management system across Abu Dhabi.

Accessible via the Centre’s official website, the platform provides accurate, real-time data to support decision-making for regulatory authorities. The Centre also reaffirmed its commitment to developing legislation and policies aligned with international standards, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s role as a regional reference hub in hazardous materials management.

Preserving Abu Dhabi’s capability in hazardous materials management

The Centre has also recently unveiled its new corporate identity, signalling the start of a new chapter in its strategic journey to protect society and the environment, while ensuring the emirate’s long-term ability to effectively manage hazardous materials.

The updated identity reflects the Centre’s forward-looking vision and its strategic focus on:

• Establishing a comprehensive legislative and regulatory framework

• Promoting integrated hazardous materials management

• Enabling capacity building

• Enhancing institutional preparedness

The Centre’s new visual identity is inspired by global standards. The triangular logo symbolises global compliance, with its outer edges representing containment and protection. The use of orange signifies safety and protection, while metallic blue reflects resilience and adaptability — core values of the Centre.

Strategic partnerships

Khalfan Al Mansoori noted that the launch of the new identity marks the start of a transformative phase aligned with the UAE leadership’s vision to enhance safety and security in the emirate. This initiative supports Abu Dhabi Vision 2030, aiming to position the emirate as a safe and attractive destination for investment.

He emphasised that the refreshed identity will help unify the Centre’s image, build public trust, and strengthen partnerships with both local and international institutions. These partnerships aim to facilitate knowledge exchange and the adoption of global best practices in hazardous materials management.

The Centre’s operations support a wide range of critical sectors, including:

• Safety and security

• Energy and transportation

• Environment and health

• Food, water, and urban planning

• Private sector industries and facilities