Health Safety Emirates (HSE) is the leading Production Safety and Security Consultancy to the Media and Entertainment Industry, with specific expertise in Motion Pictures / Film & TV
We are proud to be the number 1 Film Production Safety and Security Consultancy in the UAE and Middle East
We are based in the UAE with offices and trade licenses in:
- Dubai
- Abu Dhabi
- Saudi Arabia
- Bulgaria
- Canary Islands
- UK
However, we travel to wherever the studio takes us delivering Production Safety in the UAE, GCC, MENA, Europe, Asia and the Americas.
We are licensed for Consultancy and Training in Health & Safety, Security and Fire. In addition, we have a General Trading (Import and Export) division. Furthermore, as we have an operational business license registered in Abu Dhabi for all Production Services our clients are able to benefit from the filming rebate offered to large productions where applicable.
Gareth Thomas heads the team with over 15 years of experience in film safety and security and a further ten years in security and risk management both in the Middle East and UK
We make production safe and secure so production can, with peace of mind, roll camera and focus on the creative
Our crew specialize in:
- Film Safety
- Security
- Production
- Locations
- Cast and Crew
- Set Medics
- Emergency Medical Services
- Infection Prevention and Control (COVID-19), testing and management
- Armory
Our expertise and in-depth knowledge of film making, particularly regarding Health and Safety, enables us to support all departments within production especially, stunts, armorers, picture vehicles and SFX.
We are the market leaders,
we are the go to.
If you want to feel cared for and valued, if you want to feel safe and secure and you need our services, then there really is no one else.
Affiliate Companies & Offices
Whilst Health Safety Emirates are headquartered in Dubai we also own and operate Kensington Event and Media Services FZ LLC (KEMS) which is registered in Abu Dhabi
KEMS is licensed in production services, talent management, location management and event management. Consequently, we can support production companies fully on a turnkey basis and where applicable the rebate incentive will apply.
In addition, we have an office in London and are currently establishing a presence in Saudi Arabia, Bulgaria and The Canary Islands so as to take advantage of the respective rebates.
Gareth Thomas
GIFireE TechIOSH – Production Safety & Security Advisor, Managing Director
Gareth Thomas GIFireE TechIOSH - Production Safety & Security Advisor, Managing Director.
Based In Dubai, Gareth is the lead Film Production Safety and Security Advisor in the region. Specific areas include Health & Safety, Security, EMS and COVID Infection Prevention & Control.
As HOD, Gareth manages department budget, Production compliance and governance in regard to local law, production insurance, SAG AFTRA and similar.
Gareth has a proficient understanding of all departments risks and key deliverables and is thus able to positively liaise with all key stakeholders to ensure the production schedule is maintained without compromising the welfare of the cast and crew or the reputation of the studio.
Consequently, his expertise enables him to support all departments within production in particular, stunts, armorers, picture vehicles and SFX.
In addition, Gareth has written operational delivery procedures and protocols for Film Commissions in the Middle East that are compliant with local mandatory regulations and laws whilst meeting International Studio benchmark standards and deliverables.
A graduate member of the Institution of Fire Engineers, A Technical member of IOSH, a registered member of SIRA for Security and a registered trainer for Highfield International.
Gareth is currently studying to obtain a Master of Science (MSc) in Risk, Crisis and Resilience Management at Portsmouth University and his vocational qualifications include, but not limited to:
- International Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety Management
- International General Certificate in Occupational Health & Safety
- Security Management
- Advanced First Aid
- Evasive and Advanced Driving & Desert Driving
- Firearms Competency, Range Safety Officers - Coach Level
- Infection Prevention, Management & Control
- Fire Safety
- Crowd Dynamics
- HIDE Counter Terrorism
- Level 3 Certificate for Close Protection Operatives in Private Security - Registered with the Security Industry Authority in the UK
Gareth has studied Arabic and currently is qualified at an Intermediate Level in both spoken and written Arabic.
Simon Young
Director of Security / Health & Safety Advisor / Armorer / Production Military Advisor / Stunts
Simon Young Director of Security / Health & Safety Advisor / Armorer / Production Military Advisor / Stunts
Simon is a seasoned security operative specializing in Film Security, both Cast Security and Set Security as well as being an accomplished and well qualified Health and Safety advisor. In addition he is a competent weapons handler at instructor level with a comprehensive knowledge of a number of weapons systems.
Simon has an abundance of experience in the Film, Sports, and Event industry. He has managed Security and Close Protection teams for various A list Hollywood/Bollywood stars, Hollywood Directors, premiership football teams, individual players, UFC Fighters, F1 Drivers, and high net worth individuals.
In particular Simon has an in-depth understanding of Production in regard to Motion Pictures, the role that each department plays and the role that security must play to both protect its cast and crew without obstructing the process of filmmaking. This experience has led him to being lead security on projects within excess of 700 cast, crew and crowd in the most challenging of locations.
Prior to joining Health Safety Emirates, he has handled various responsibilities including but not limited to conducting regular Security, Health & Safety surveys, reconnaissance, and audit/ inspections, accident/ incident investigations and developing mitigation measures to eliminate or reduce the risks, conduct armored vehicles and equipment checks to name a few.
He has served with the Royal Marine Commandos and has been deployed to several operational theaters & has extensive Iraq/Middle East experience. After his military service, he has predominantly been a Close Protection Officer (CPO) and has experience working in high-risk environments.
He also has experience in providing Security training to CPO’s including but not limited to; Weapon handling, convoy drills, action on drills, risk identification, close combat/ defensive training etc.
Consequently Simon has provided support to the stunts department in regards to unarmed combat due to his extensive training.
Gemma Do Rego
Senior Project Manager / Transport Coordinator / Production
Gemma Do Rego
Senior Project Manager / Transport Coordinator / Production
Gemma hails from the UK, having been in the region for over a decade, she possesses a broad depth of experience in Event Management with specific strengths in Hospitality, Guest Management and Logistics.
Having started her career in Hospitality which took her across the globe, she has an in-depth understanding of the importance of service and exceeding guest expectations.
Furthermore, her residency in the region has meant that she appreciates the cultural nuances that form the diverse and unique operational landscape of the Middle East and specifically the United Arab Emirates.
Gemma has been party to Hollywood Productions coordinating logistics for large-scale productions. In addition, she has been responsible for the guest management of Hollywood A listers, Media Influencers, Company Executives and Key Stakeholders.
Her planning, preparation and operational delivery on the ground is second to none, she thrives under pressure and drives a positive and professional attitude in the team.
May Madrigal
Senior Set Medic
May Madrigal Senior Set Medic
May is a true champion on set and represents our team as a Senior / Key Set Medic with over 10 years’ experience on both Films and TV in both the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.
In addition, she specializes in Infection Prevention and Control compliance and management on set. (COVID)
Her past experiences include but are not limited to instructing First Aid, Lifeguard, Fire Safety and other Health and Safety courses under Highfield Awarding Body for Compliance and American Safety and Health Institute. She has conducted training in numerous companies in the UAE and in the Gulf.
Her Red Cross emergency experience assisted in her transition into becoming an Event and Film Medic and covering Concerts, Films (Local and International) & TV commercial shoots, sporting events and corporate events.
Furthermore, she worked as a volunteer Instructor in Philippine National Red Cross for 10 years under Safety Services, Social Services and Disaster Management Services; conducting Critical Incident Stress Debriefing, International Humanitarian Law, Standard First Aid and Basic Life Support training for lay rescuers and Health Care Providers.
She is also a World Rugby L2 qualified Medic and Medical Educator, an elite member of the Laguna Emergency Response Team, attending to different kinds of road accidents, calamities, and other unforeseen occurrences, an EMT- Emergency Medical Technician graduate by Operations Smile International and the Philippine National Red Cross from 2007, and a member of the Emergency Medical Technician Association of the Philippines. She is also a Board Member of Kabalikat Civicom UAE 5000 chapter. May is a Graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.
Jinjie Li
Compliance Officer & Production Safety Coordinator
Jinjie Li Compliance Officer & Production Safety Coordinator
Jinjie is an integral part of the Health Safety Emirates team specializing in COVID prevention and control.
Being a biomedical scientist with a MSc Biomedical Science Research, Jinjie has been working in the field of research since graduating in 2017. From this she has specialized in the behaviors and characteristics of the human cells which requires good understanding and knowledge of the main principles of the human body, as well as various biomedical disciplines, including infection, immunology, and immunity.
As a result, she has developed protocols in relation to dealing with biohazard materials, and aseptic management, inclusive of but not limited to Personal Protective Equipment and the necessary disciplines to manage the integrity of the environment and the immediate welfare of persons.
As a Scientist and HSE officer Jinjie developed the protocol for standard processing procedure for biological products which ensures that all biological products are managed so as to prevent cross-contamination and monitor products’ quality control.
As an HSE officer, her responsibility was to monitor and assess hazardous materials and unsafe situations in a clinical setting, which plays a crucial role in both patient and employee safety.
This required regular training for staff to raise awareness in identifying hazards, assess the risk, and proper management and prevent hazards.
Since joining our team, Jinjie has invested her time in transferring the skills sets and understanding of her vast experience in infection control so as to deliver a robust and practical approach to COVID prevention within the Film & TV and Events Industry and has in addition delivered the same for some prestigious global brands.
In 2021 Jinjie managed over 22,000 PCR and Antigen tests in 32 weeks of prep and shoot in both the UAE and Saudi Arabia and ensured operational compliance met with local legislation, Insurance and SAG AFTRA.
Her advanced understanding of film making and the interoperability of departments within Production gives her the operational advantage in delivering a robust infection prevention and control framework.
Maureen Eva Rosales
Set Medic &
Production Safety Coordinator
Maureen Rosales Set Medic & Production Safety Coordinator
Maureen primarily joined our team specializing in COVID Prevention and Control and later became a set medic and accomplished production safety coordinator.
Her responsibilities included, but are not limited to ensuring the COVID health protocols are strictly followed during the shoot, logging the temperature of all the crew, casts, third parties and all those who are involved in the production, serving as a point of contact for concerns and questions related to compliance with COVID Protocol, securing the sufficient supplies of PPE etc.
Her drive and enthusiasm and interpersonal skills contributed to her qualifying as a set medic and production safety coordinator with the primary role of managing the safety of key crew and cast to ensure that production doesn’t need to go still.
Maureen has the confidence of her peers and as such is able to coordinate the delivery of the risk management plan in its entirety.
Her polite, friendly yet determined manner ensures that the crew comply without adding any additional stress to the day.
Maureen studied radiology at university and has since become qualified in advanced first aid, first aid in remote locations and challenging terrain and infection prevention & control and health & safety.
Stephanie Ira Ho
Set Medic / Health & Safety / Nurse
Stephanie Ira Ho
Set Medic / Health & Safety / Nurse
Stephanie is an integral part of the Health Safety Emirates Team specializing as a Set Medic and Registered Nurse.
Having started her career in the Philippines where she completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing, Stephanie then relocated to the UAE as a Licensed Registered Nurse after which she was approached in 2022 to join the team at HSE and become part of our family.
She is compassionate and highly capable with expertise in delivering quality care to patients in emergency room care, triage, and post–surgical recovery. Her responsibilities include but are not limited to assisting injured patients and providing clinical support, collaborating with physicians to devise individualized care plans, administering medicines and vaccinations as directed by a physician, providing immediate medical care in emergencies, inspecting facilities, and taking action to maintain excellent hygiene and safety.
Whilst Stephanie has limited film experience her ability to adapt in environments is second to none and this was clearly demonstrated on Dune 2 where she was responsible for Unit Base, a role she delivered with enthusiasm and absolute professionalism.
Roel Masallo Valeriano
Level 3 Set Medic / Safety & Security / Art Department
Roel Masallo Valeriano
Level 3 Set Medic / Safety & Security / Art Department
Roel is an esteemed member of our Health & Safety Emirates team, where he holds a multifaceted role as a Set Medic, Safety and Security personnel, and an Assistant Director in the Art Department.
In his capacity as a Set Medic, Roel is entrusted with managing crew wellbeing and ensuring prompt medical attention in the event of an injury or incident. He also serves as a Safety and Security professional, adeptly managing HSE events and securing locations for high-profile clients such as Audi Volkswagen, McLaren, and most recently the Gran Turismo Movie.
Roel's valuable contributions extend beyond his role as a Set Medic and Safety and Security professional. He was an instrumental part of the HSE team as a Covid Marshal during the filming of the Hollywood film Kandahar, which took place in Saudi Arabia in 2022. Additionally, Roel provided essential support to the international crew during the AMG Mercedes Test Drive.
Roel's expertise in the Art Department is highly regarded in the film and television industry. He has worked on numerous Hollywood projects and TV commercials, including Vanguard, Desert Warrior, Mission Impossible, The Foul King, Rise of the Witches, and The Mountain Boy.
Roel's experience in the Hospitality Industry spanning over a decade has honed his customer service skills, making him an indispensable asset to the HSE Team.
Henry Dray
Line Producer / International Transport Captain
Henry Dray
Line Producer / International Transport Captain
Meet Henry Dray, a highly accomplished professional in the world of film and media production. With his expertise as a Line Producer and International Transport Captain, Henry plays a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless execution of major productions. As a valued member of the Kensington Event & Media Services team, he brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success.
With an impressive career spanning over two decades, Henry has worked on some of the most iconic film franchises in the industry. His credits include blockbuster hits like Bond, Fast & Furious, Mission Impossible, and many more. His involvement in these high-profile projects speaks volumes about his ability to handle complex logistics, manage international transportation, and oversee large-scale production operations.
As a Line Producer, Henry possesses a keen eye for detail and an exceptional ability to manage budgets, resources, and schedules. His meticulous planning and organizational skills ensure that productions stay on track and within budget, while maintaining the highest standards of quality and efficiency.
In his role as an International Transport Captain, Henry's expertise shines through in coordinating the movement of equipment, props, and personnel across various locations around the globe. His extensive network of industry connections and in-depth knowledge of customs and regulations enable him to navigate the complexities of international logistics with ease.
Henry's unwavering dedication to his craft and his commitment to delivering excellence have earned him the respect and trust of colleagues and clients alike. He is known for his professionalism, adaptability, and the ability to tackle any challenge that comes his way. His exceptional leadership skills and strong work ethic make him an invaluable asset to any production team.
Whether it's managing intricate production details, overseeing international transportation, or ensuring the smooth operation of large-scale projects, Henry Dray consistently delivers outstanding results. His expertise and experience in the industry make him an indispensable member of the Kensington Event & Media Services team, guaranteeing the success of every production he is involved in.
In summary, Henry Dray is a highly skilled Line Producer and International Transport Captain, recognized for his significant contributions to the film and media industry. With an impressive portfolio of credits that includes some of the biggest franchises in cinema history, he brings unparalleled expertise, meticulous planning, and exceptional leadership to every project.
Steven Day
International Transport Captain
Daisy Thomas
Production Assistant
Scott Chisholm
Director of Security UK
Steven Day
International Transport Captain
Steven started his professional career in the hospitality sector in Australia. When the opportunity presented itself, he began working in the Film Industry and has in excess of 20 years’ experience as a professional transport captain for major Hollywood Movies including franchises James Bond, Fast and Furious, Mission Impossible and Star Wars, to name just a few.
Consequently, he has been responsible for managing transport for some of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors.
As the transportation captain he leads a team that includes transportation managers and drivers who handle various transportation needs on a production, from picking up cast members and driving them to the set, to transporting trailers, essentially anything that moves is the responsibility of the transport department. By its very nature it is a critical department to production and with one of the biggest production budgets to manage.
Steven is considered to be one of the leading transport captains globally, he has operated in the Middle East since 2009 and is a Golden Visa resident.
Daisy Thomas
Production Assistant
Meet Daisy, a talented and passionate individual who has been making waves in the events and media industry in the UAE for several years. With a background in Psychology and Management from Dubai Heriot-Watt University, Daisy has a unique blend of skills that makes her an invaluable asset to any TV or film production team.
Daisy's journey in the industry began at 18, and since then, she has been involved in several high-profile projects, such as the Nike Victory Swim Commercial, Gran Turismo Movie, and various TVCs. Her credits demonstrate her ability to take on challenging roles and deliver outstanding results. As the PA to the production manager, Daisy's resourcefulness, determination, and hardworking nature are evident in every project she is involved in.
Daisy's dedication to her craft is second to none. She is always eager to learn and improve her skills, making her an asset to any team. Her attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and ability to work under pressure make her an ideal candidate for any TV or film production.
Daisy's passion for the industry is contagious, and her positive attitude and ability to work well with others make her a pleasure to work with. Her experience and expertise make her an excellent choice for any TV or film production team in the UAE.
In summary, Daisy is a talented and driven individual who has made significant contributions to the events and media industry in the UAE. Her skills, experience, and positive attitude make her an excellent choice for any TV or film production, and she is sure to be an asset to any team she works with.
Scott Chisholm Head of Security UK
Based in the UK Scott has 30 years’ experience in the Film & TV Industry, specializing in Film Security, both Set Security / Safety and Cast Security.
During the COVID pandemic he managed infection prevention and control both in the UK and Middle East.
Scott has an abundance of experience in Film, Music, and Event industry during which he has worked in Security and Close Protection positions for numerous people including, but not limited to Madonna, Michael Jackson and Charlie Sheen.
Scot has a long list of credits and as such has been part of many prestigious films / series such as “The Witcher” 2020 and “No Time to Die” 2019 to name but a few.
Fun fact, he has even been in front of the Camera with Charlie Sheen and Kiefer Sutherland!
Scott’s understanding of the mechanics of film making is unquestionable, he has additional experience in several departments including transport, unit and locations.
Scott runs our UK Office and can be contacted by email on scott@healthsafety.ae
Layton Windsor Thomas
Film Security / Communications Specialist
Shamir Shamsudin
Safety / Set & Cast Security
James Burnett
Motorsport Safety Consultant
Layton Windsor Thomas
Film Security / Communications Specialist
Layton recently joined HSE as a Security Consultant, Integrated Communications Systems Network Engineer, and Deployment Specialist.
With his military experience, He demonstrates exceptional analytical capabilities, effective interpersonal skills, and excellent verbal communication abilities. He is also a very dedicated and highly skilled Deployment Engineer with a strong sense of professionalism and loyalty. Known for being results-oriented, self-motivated, and forward-thinking, he can work independently.
Before joining HSE, Layton dedicated nearly 9 years of service in the British Army as a member of the esteemed Royal Corps of Signals. Layton was stationed in various locations throughout his tenure, including Colchester, Essex, where he was attached to the esteemed Parachute Regiment, subsequently qualifying as a parachutist, and gaining his wings, becoming a joint rapid reaction force member.
He also had the privilege of being deployed to Nanyuki, Kenya, where he could impart his knowledge to residents and British troops.
During his service as a Lance Corporal in the British Army, He was a senior Communications Systems Operator/Network Engineer, leading a team of junior soldiers within a busy Brigade. He completed an intensive 18-month Phase 2 training course that provided him with a comprehensive education in Advanced Telecommunications, Voice Procedure, Antenna & Propagation.
One of his key responsibilities was to teach his fellow soldiers the operation of various communication systems, including Bowman Communication Systems, TACIS, OPCIS, and SATCOM.
Layton also participated in major exercises conducted by the British Army, including Askari Storm, Joint Warrior, and Swift Response, in multiple countries. These exercises allowed him to showcase his skills and contribute to the success of the operations.
Furthermore, Layton took part in the demanding Pegasus Company training, which enabled him to complete the All Arms Basic Parachute Course. This qualification allowed him to support the Parachute Regiment in combat situations when needed.
Shamir Shamsudin
Safety / Set & Cast Security
Shamir is an integral part of Health Safety Emirates with 20 years of vast experience in the Security Field, specialising in Set Security / Safety and Cast Security.
Before joining Health Safety Emirates, he was a Senior Security Supervisor. He was responsible for implementing various security measures & strategies and was in charge of the surveillance System and training the Security Guards.
Shamir has an abundance of experience in the Film, Music and Event industry, during which he has worked on numerous projects including, but not limited to, Mission Impossible 7 2021 Founders Memorial Inauguration 2019, Race 3’ Bollywood Movie 2018, ‘Welcome Back 2’ Bollywood Movie 2015, ‘Fast & Furious 7’ – 2014, Bang Bang Bollywood Movie 2014 and concerts of Justin Timberlake, Shakira, Jon Bon Jovi, Cold Play, Elton John, Rihanna and Christina Aguilera to name a few.
James Burnett
Motorsport Safety Consultant
James Burnett is a former automotive development engineer with 24 years industry expertise and product knowledge, making him one of the most qualified motor vehicle evaluation experts in the Middle East.
His career has been dedicated to dealership training, media and consumer drive events for the regional offices of the world’s leading automotive manufacturers and is one of few internationally approved lead driver trainers for BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, Lamborghini and Jaguar.
James established the Dubai Autodrome’s Race and Drive School in 2005 and has worked with various government departments on their safety and driver training requirements.
Drawing from his technical knowledge, he assesses and evaluates the USPs of the vehicles to create a program which best highlights them by using road and off-road drive routes, driving at a motor racing circuit, or developing a series of dynamic activities through a roadshow.
James prides himself on providing a bespoke and professional service. Whether we are preparing a media launch or inviting customers to an experiential event, he recognises that events have many different moving parts. James works closely with us from the initial planning stages to fully understand our objectives.
Shaveer Haripershad
Film Performance Injury Prevention Specialist
Shaveer Haripershad
Film Performance Injury Prevention Specialist
Shaveer Haripershad (Shav) is a highly skilled Film Performance Injury Prevention Specialist promoting a proactive approach to physical injury prevention in film production. With expertise in sports rehabilitation and corrective exercise techniques, Shav maximises cast and stunt performers' physical abilities and well-being.
Shav holds a bachelor's degree in Sports Science and has obtained multiple certifications to enhance his knowledge and skills. After competing at national and international levels in martial arts, he has successfully applied his unique coaching and treatment methods, resulting in improved recovery for the cast and crew.
With a deep understanding of the film industry's demands, Shav adapts his expertise to meet the unique needs of each production. From preparing actors for action sequences to facilitating recovery.
Passionate about pushing the boundaries of performance enhancement while safeguarding performers, Shav assists the cast and crew, creating unforgettable on-screen moments through a culture of physical excellence and injury prevention in film production.
Services
AFFILIATES
Prepyou.eu
The Institution of Fire Engineers
Highfield
iosh International
British Bodyguard Association