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Disasters at sea caused by drug or drink abuse by sailors can be avoided using two new tests to be launched in Dubai
later this year.
An in-port drink and drug testing call sample service, plus an on-board sample collection kit, will be unveiled by
Medscreen, Europe’s largest substance abuse testing laboratory, at Seatrade Middle East Maritime, the region’s premier
exhibition and conference for the maritime industry.
The London company has a sales office in Kuwait and will also use Seatrade Middle East Maritime as an opportunity to
find local joint venture partners to expand sales in what it sees as a growth market.
Business Development Manager Graham Birch said; “Substance abuse in the workplace is a serious issue anywhere but in
the maritime industry it is crucial. The effects can literally be disastrous and there have been plenty of incidents over the
years that ended in deaths and environmental disasters with ships going aground. That is why the maritime industry is
particularly important to us.”
He added: “Seatrade Middle East Maritime, because it is held in Dubai, will attract industry professionals from both the Far
East and the Gulf. That is important to us as 30 per cent of our maritime business comes from these regions.
“The opening of the Iraq market will increase cruise tourism and also provide access to oil and transport companies which
will offer significant opportunities.”
The fourth Seatrade Middle East Cruise conference, which will run from December 6-7, will explore the region’s cruise
potential, including itinerary options and infrastructure development. It is part of the Seatrade event which runs from
December 6 – 8 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
“The boom in the regional maritime industry has increased interest in this year’s event, which will be three times bigger
than last year,” said Chris Hayman, Managing Director, Seatrade.
“These are clear signs that the end of the war in Iraq has boosted confidence in the industry, which managed to expand
last year in spite of regional uncertainty.”
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