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Health and Safety at Work

National standards and policies to ensure workplace health and safety for employees.

Sections

1. National Regulations Governing Health and Safety at Work

The UAE has established a robust legal framework to regulate workplace health and safety. The primary laws and regulations include:

a. UAE Labour Law (Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021)

  • The UAE Labour Law outlines the responsibilities of employers and employees regarding workplace safety.
  • Employers are required to:
    • Provide a safe working environment free from hazards.
    • Implement measures to prevent workplace injuries and occupational diseases.
    • Provide necessary safety equipment and training to employees.
    • Ensure compliance with health and safety standards set by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE).

b. Ministerial Resolutions

  • Ministerial Resolution No. 44 of 2022: This resolution provides detailed guidelines on occupational health and safety, including risk assessments, emergency preparedness, and reporting of workplace incidents.
  • Ministerial Resolution No. 37 of 2022: Focuses on the prevention of workplace injuries and illnesses, particularly in high-risk industries like construction.

c. Free Zone Regulations

  • Companies operating in free zones (e.g., Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, Jebel Ali Free Zone) must comply with the specific health and safety regulations of the respective free zone authority, in addition to federal laws.

d. Industry-Specific Regulations

  • Certain industries, such as construction, oil and gas, and manufacturing, have additional safety requirements governed by sector-specific regulations. For example:
    • The Code of Construction Safety Practice applies to construction sites.
    • The Abu Dhabi Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHAD) oversees workplace safety in Abu Dhabi.

e. International Standards

  • The UAE often aligns its health and safety regulations with international standards, such as those set by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series (OHSAS).

2. Standard Procedures for Workplace Health and Safety

Employers in the UAE are required to implement the following standard procedures to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations:

a. Risk Assessments

  • Employers must conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential hazards in the workplace.
  • Risk mitigation plans should be developed and implemented to address identified risks.

b. Safety Training

  • Employers must provide safety training to employees, especially those working in high-risk environments.
  • Training should cover topics such as fire safety, first aid, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and emergency response.

c. Provision of Safety Equipment

  • Employers are required to supply employees with appropriate PPE, such as helmets, gloves, goggles, and safety harnesses, depending on the nature of the work.

d. Emergency Preparedness

  • Workplaces must have emergency response plans in place, including evacuation procedures, fire drills, and access to first aid kits.
  • Designated safety officers or emergency response teams should be trained to handle workplace emergencies.

e. Reporting and Investigating Incidents

  • Workplace accidents and injuries must be reported to the relevant authorities, such as MOHRE or OSHAD.
  • Employers are required to investigate incidents to determine their cause and implement measures to prevent recurrence.

f. Medical Examinations

  • Pre-employment and periodic medical examinations are mandatory for certain job categories to ensure employees are fit for their roles.
  • Employers must also provide medical care for employees injured on the job.

3. Costs Associated with Health and Safety

The costs of implementing health and safety measures in the UAE are typically borne by employers. Key cost considerations include:

a. Safety Equipment

  • Employers are responsible for purchasing and maintaining PPE and other safety equipment.
  • Costs vary depending on the industry and the specific equipment required.

b. Training Programs

  • Employers must invest in safety training for employees, which may involve hiring external trainers or conducting in-house sessions.

c. Insurance

  • Employers are required to provide workplace injury insurance for employees. This covers medical expenses and compensation for work-related injuries or illnesses.

d. Compliance Costs

  • Companies may incur costs for conducting risk assessments, hiring safety officers, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.

e. Penalties for Non-Compliance

  • Non-compliance with health and safety regulations can result in fines, legal action, or suspension of business operations. Penalties vary depending on the severity of the violation.

4. Country-Specific Considerations

Visitors and immigrants working in the UAE should be aware of the following cultural and regulatory nuances:

a. Climate-Related Safety

  • The UAE’s extreme heat, especially during summer, poses unique health risks such as heat exhaustion and dehydration.
  • The Midday Break Rule prohibits outdoor work between 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM during the summer months (June 15 to September 15) to protect workers from heat-related illnesses.

b. Multicultural Workforce

  • The UAE’s workforce is highly diverse, with employees from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
  • Employers must ensure that safety training and communication are accessible to all employees, often by providing materials in multiple languages.

c. Free Zone Variations

  • Employees working in free zones should familiarize themselves with the specific health and safety regulations of their respective free zone authority.

d. Religious and Cultural Sensitivities

  • Employers and employees should respect Islamic practices and cultural norms, such as prayer times and modest dress codes, while implementing health and safety measures.

e. Focus on High-Risk Industries

  • The UAE places particular emphasis on health and safety in high-risk industries like construction, oil and gas, and manufacturing. Workers in these sectors should expect stricter safety protocols and frequent inspections.

5. Resources and Support

Employees and employers can access the following resources for guidance on health and safety:

  • Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE): Provides information on labor laws and workplace safety regulations.
  • Abu Dhabi Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHAD): Offers resources and training on occupational safety in Abu Dhabi.
  • Dubai Municipality: Oversees health and safety regulations in Dubai, including inspections and certifications.
  • Free Zone Authorities: Provide specific guidelines for companies operating within free zones.

Conclusion

The UAE places a strong emphasis on workplace health and safety, with comprehensive regulations and procedures designed to protect employees. Employers are responsible for ensuring compliance with these regulations, while employees are expected to follow safety protocols and report hazards. Visitors and immigrants working in the UAE should familiarize themselves with the country’s health and safety standards to ensure a safe and productive work environment.