Speaking at the third Process Safety Management Conference, Molaei
highlighted the importance of structural and cultural transformation, human
capacity development, and integration of modern technologies to strengthen HSE
performance across the oil and petrochemical industries.
“Safety and risk management today require a scientific, process-driven
approach focused on human capital development,” he said.
Molaei noted that HSE specialists currently make up only around three
percent of the workforce in Iran’s oil sector, far below the recommended 15–20
percent. He said this shortage, coupled with retirements and staff exits,
underscores the need for targeted recruitment, training, and retention programs
for HSE professionals.
He also pointed to gaps between technological complexity, operational
changes, and existing organizational structures, warning that misalignment
could have serious consequences in the high-risk petrochemical sector. Recent
organizational reviews indicate that while some progress has been made, key HSE
needs remain unaddressed.
“Safety is more than rules, charts, and procedures—it is a culture
embedded in the mindset and behavior of operators, process engineers,
maintenance staff, and managers,” Molaei said. He emphasized that full
participation from all levels of personnel is essential for sustainable HSE
improvements.
Molaei expressed optimism that with active collaboration from managers
and HSE specialists, the sector can accelerate development and structural
reform in safety management, ensuring safer and more resilient operations.