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Safety & Protection of Workers in UAE

Safety & Protection of Workers program always directs your efforts toward bettering your workplace.

Every company will have a special program to address how you conduct business, the risks you face at work, and how you oversee the health and safety of your employees. Apart from getting compensated for the work you do, your top priority as an employee is safety. Safety is always teamwork. Employees must be aware of and always take seriously their responsibilities to maintain a safe and healthy workplace.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Government does not ignore its Duties and Responsibilities when it comes to the safety & protection of workers.

The safety & protection law mainly aims at protecting workers from dangers that risk their health and safety.

Employers are responsible for providing adequate methods of protection for their workers against occupational diseases that may be contracted while working. All workers need the proper knowledge, instruction, and training from their employers to perform safely and take preventative measures against potential risks such as fire and other hazards brought on by the use of machinery and other work instruments, as well as potential occupational diseases and injuries.

Following the Public Health Law you can plan and implement:

  • The terms and conditions for ensuring worker health and safety at all work sites throughout UAE.
  • A system for managing occupational health, safety, and the environment, as well as its recurring updates.
  • A tracking system for all cases of accidents, work-related injuries, and occupational diseases.
  • Terms and conditions for physical fitness for work.

What are the Employer’s responsibilities?

  • Display clear instructions at the workplace explaining the steps to be followed to prevent fires and safeguard employees from potential risks they may encounter while at work.
  • A first-aid kit containing medicines must be provided, and the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs may also recommend bandages, antiseptics, and other first-aid supplies. This must be placed in a visible location that is easily accessible to other employees and be used by a first aid expert.
  • Make sure that every workplace is completely clean, well-ventilated, and equipped with functional lighting, drinking water, and restrooms, without regard to the rules and orders issued by the relevant government agencies.
  • Offer medical facilities for his employees that meet the requirements set by the Ministers of Labour and Social Affairs and Health.
  • Assign one or more physicians to perform medical examinations at least once every six months. The results of these examinations must be recorded in the employer’s register and employee’s personnel files.
  • When occupational disease cases arise, the doctors must immediately notify the employer and the labour department.
  • The employee must follow all guidelines and directives about workplace safety and security, adopt safety measures, and promise to take good care of any relevant property that is in his possession.
  • Inspection checks will be carried out often at worksites to guarantee that health and safety regulations are being followed. Companies that violate the law will be subject to penalties and fines.

Health and safety in Remote working

Employees who work for employers in remote locations without access to regular transportation must include the following facilities:

1. Reliable transportation

2. Proper accommodation

3. Drinking water

4. Sufficient food supply

5. Medical supplies

None of the expenses related to the services may be charged to the employees; all such expenses shall be paid by the employer.

There are additional health and safety requirements that employers must follow that are outlined in various laws. This blog is based on Federal Law no.8 of 1980

Reference:

U.A.E. LABOUR LAW

FEDERAL LAW NO. (8) OF 1980

LABOUR LAW AND ITS AMENDMENTS – 2001