The Minister of Human Resources and Social Development launches the regulations for occupational fitness tests and non-communicable diseases.
The Minister of Human Resources and Social Development and Chairman of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, Eng. Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi, launched today the Regulation for Occupational Fitness Examinations and Non-Communicable Diseases. The regulation aims to enable early detection of non-communicable diseases, enhance the health of workers in workplaces, reduce the rate of occupational injuries and diseases, and ensure selecting the most suitable individuals for sensitive professions. It also aims to raise the level of preventive measures in workplaces and improve the quality of life and public health of workers, which positively reflects on their safety, performance, and productivity. The regulation contributes to reducing workplace injuries, accidents, and occupational diseases by strengthening early preventive examination procedures and improving workers’ physical and psychological fitness, ensuring that they can perform their duties efficiently and safely. It also organizes the mechanisms of pre-employment medical examinations, periodic examinations, and exceptional examinations for high-risk professions, with the aim of protecting workers’ health and unifying medical examination models in line with the nature of each profession. The regulation also includes the establishment of comprehensive health databases to support decision-makers and enhance preventive monitoring, contributing to improving and raising the efficiency of work environments. The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health continues its efforts to improve the level of compliance with national standards and relevant international agreements, thereby strengthening the Kingdom’s position on global indicators related to occupational safety and health.
Posted on 08 September 2025
Implementation of the decision to ban work under direct sunlight begins
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development and the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health announced the start of implementing the decision to prohibit working under direct sunlight for all private sector establishments, starting from Sunday, 19 Dhul-Hijjah 1446 AH, corresponding to June 15, 2025, until Sunday, 23 Rabi’ Al-Awwal 1447 AH, corresponding to September 15, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. This decision aims to protect the safety and health of workers, spare them potential health risks, and provide a healthy and safe work environment in accordance with international occupational safety and health standards. The ministry called on employers to organize working hours and adhere to the requirements of this decision, in order to contribute to providing a safe work environment free from various risks, and to enhance the efficiency and means of prevention to reduce occupational injuries and diseases resulting from direct exposure to sunlight, which positively reflects on increasing productivity. The ministry published on its website the “Occupational Safety and Health Procedural Guide for Preventing the Effects of Sun Exposure and Heat Stress” and the “Guidance Manual for Preventing the Effects of Working in Hot Environments,” with the aim of informing business owners and enabling them to implement its contents. Violations related to the prohibition of working under sunlight can be reported through the ministry’s unified number (19911) or via the ministry’s mobile application available on smartphones.
Posted on 09 June 2025
The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health participates in the opening of the Global Initiative for Occupational Safety, Health and Wellbeing conference at Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan
The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, part of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development system and led by Secretary-General Eng. Majed Al-Fuwaiz, is participating in the opening of the Global Initiative for Occupational Safety, Health, and Well-being Conference, held in conjunction with Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, from 16 to 19 July 2025, with the participation of the Ministry of Energy and the private sector.This participation comes as part of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to highlight its pioneering experiences in occupational safety and health and to promote workplace well-being. The Council, the Ministry of Energy, and several national companies took part in the accompanying exhibition to showcase key national programs and initiatives, along with the latest technologies used to improve the work environment, in addition to awareness, training, and reporting activities.The Council’s pavilion witnessed significant turnout from international delegations and conference participants, who were introduced to the Council’s efforts in developing modern professional policies and practices in line with best international standards, contributing to the achievement of Saudi Vision 2030 objectives.The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health affirmed that this participation reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to strengthening its international presence, exchanging expertise with global entities, and reinforcing its leading role in building safe, healthy, and sustainable work environments.
Posted on 16 July 2025
The Future of Occupational Health and Safety
The Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, and Chairman of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, announces the launch of the seventh edition of the global Conference on Occupational Safety and Health Riyadh hosts leaders in occupational safety and health from governments, academia, and the business sector to shape the future of this vital field Monday, March 24, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – His Excellency Eng. Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development and Chairman of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, today announced the launch of the seventh edition of the Global Occupational Safety and Health Conference (GOSH7), in the presence of prominent leaders in the field from government entities, the private sector, and academic institutions, both from within the Kingdom and abroad. The global Conference on Occupational Safety and Health will be held over three days at the Four Seasons Hotel Conference Center in Riyadh from May 4 to 6, 2025. It serves as a scientific platform to present key topics related to the future of occupational safety and health, along with the challenges and opportunities facing global labor markets. GOSH7 aims to promote a global culture of occupational safety and health by enabling constructive conversations about the latest trends and innovations, exploring best practices and exchanging vital knowledge. The conference will also focus on the development of policies and preventive measures to support OSH excellence, and the role of technology in improving work environments and enhancing OSH awareness. In a statement marking the occasion, His Excellency Eng. Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al-Rajhi, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development, Chairman of the National Council, said: “The Kingdom is proud to convene the seventh edition of GOSH7 in Riyadh, as we explore key issues facing work environments and develop progressive frameworks. “The conference has become an important annual event for OSH leaders, and we look forward to the seventh edition being the most international one yet. GOSH7 is an important milestone in elevating global discussions about occupational safety and health, and continuing the critical job of improving compliance with OSH standards here, regionally and around the world.” For his part, His Excellency Dr. Abdulla Nasser Abuthnain, Vice Minister for Labor, Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development ,Vice Chairman of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health said: “Strong and resilient labor markets are the backbone of economies around the world, and as work environments evolve it is critical that we collaborate closely to adapt to the challenges, grasp the opportunities, and enhance workplace health and safety. His Excellency added, “I look forward to welcoming our partners from around the world to Riyadh for the upcoming GOSH7 conference to discuss the key issues facing global labor markets, foster economic prosperity and seek to build safe, sustainable and future-ready work environments.” An exciting new element at GOSH7 is a hackathon that will bring together specialists from around the world to develop innovative solutions to enhance occupational safety and health practices. In addition, the hackathon is designed to identify and define practical ideas and solutions that contribute to raising global occupational health and safety standards. The final element driving GOSH7 is the creation of a framework for occupational safety and health for the world that is in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and that defines the Future of Occupational Safety & Health.
Posted on 05 May 2024
The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health confirms the inaccuracy of information circulated about working conditions in the Kingdom
In reference to the misinformation circulating across various media platforms—particularly claims suggesting an increase in worker fatalities linked to working conditions in Saudi Arabia, accompanied by unfounded statistics lacking credible sources—the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health in Saudi Arabia unequivocally refutes these assertions. The Council affirms the work-related fatalities in Saudi Arabia is 1.12 per 100,000 workers. This figure positions Saudi Arabia among the lowest globally in terms of work-related fatalities. The International Labour Organization (ILO) acknowledges this progress, highlighting on its official website that Saudi Arabia has made significant advancements in improving occupational safety and health and reducing workplace accidents at the national level. Similar commendations have been offered by other reputable international organizations, including the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management and the British Safety Council. The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health reiterates that the safety and well-being of workers are fundamental priorities in all regulations and laws implemented in Saudi Arabia. The initiatives outlined in the Saudi Vision 2030 framework place human well-being at the forefront of all programs and development projects, notably through the National Strategic Program for Occupational Safety and Health. Launched in 2017 as part of Vision 2030, this program aims to review and enhance workplace safety protocols, regulations, and legislation. Additionally, Saudi labour laws mandate that employers provide comprehensive health insurance that covers essential preventive, therapeutic, and healthcare services for all employees. Regulations also restrict work under direct sunlight during the summer months and establish working hours in accordance with international standards set forth in relevant ILO agreements. We emphasize the importance of verifying information and sourcing it from credible outlets.
Posted on 05 May 2024
NCOSH Meets with the Executive Office of the Council of Labor Ministers in the GCC
The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health (NCOSH) has met with the Executive Office of the Ministers of Labor in the GCC countries. This meeting took place on the evening of Monday, May 6, 2024, in conjunction with the Sixth Saudi Global Conference on Occupational Safety and Health. The meeting was attended by Dr. Manal Azzi, the Global Team Lead on OSH at ILO, and Mr. Mohammed Al-Abdely, the General Director of the Executive Office of the GCC Ministers of Labor. The meeting was commenced by Eng. Majed bin Ibrahim Al-Fuwaiz, the General Secretary of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health. He delved into the Kingdom's OSH landscape, emphasizing policy, legislative, and regulatory efforts aimed at bolstering workplace safety and health standards. He also emphasized the importance of providing a safe, healthy, and attractive working environment for employees. Furthermore, Mr. Mohammed Al-Abdely, the General Director of the Executive Office of the GCC Ministers of Labor, highlighted the role of the Executive Office in coordinating labor affairs among the GCC countries. He emphasized the importance of cooperation in enhancing occupational safety and health, as well as unifying systems and procedures in this field. Moreover, Dr. Manal Azzi stressed the importance of compliance with International Labour Organization Conventions No. 155 and No. 187 and their impact on improving the working environment and ensuring the safety of Employees. These conventions represent the fundamental principles that must be adhered to in order to promote health and safety in the workplace through the application of standards, procedures, and the adoption of effective policies. She also emphasized on the commitment to achieving and implementing these conventions, as it will reflects a safe and healthy work society that enhances productivity and contribute to comprehensive and sustainable development. During the meeting, the current status of occupational safety and health in the GCC countries was discussed, as well as the outcomes of the first meeting of the Occupational Safety and Health Team. Strategic initiatives were presented to the GCC Ministers of Labor Committee in the field of occupational safety and health, aiming to enhance legislation and procedures for occupational safety and health in the workplace. These initiatives aim to raise standards in creating a safe, healthy, and sustainable working environment, and to reduce work-related risks through effective governance that contributes to the stability of the workforce and the enhancement of productivity. They also discussed regional and international cooperation between the GCC countries and the International Labour Organization.
Posted on 05 May 2024
Umm Al-Qura University Agreement
The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health has signed a framework agreement with Umm Al-Qura University regarding the "Development, Operation, and Implementation of an Enhanced Operational Model for the NCOSH" during the Sixth Saudi Global Conference for Occupational Safety and Health 2024. This agreement acknowledges Umm Al-Qura University's pivotal role as an academic institution and a center of knowledge in the academic domain, where it provides research, consultancy, professional development, and training, through its scientific research centers, colleges, specialized institutes, and affiliated companies. The aim of this agreement is to enhance collaboration in building and implementing a model for the council to define its approach in creating and delivering value to its stakeholders, based on the best global practices of similar entities and organizations, leveraging studies, consultancy services, professional development, and training.
Posted on 05 May 2024
Advanced Health Solutions Co. Agreement
The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health has signed a MoU with Advanced Health Solutions Company during the Sixth Saudi Global Conference for Occupational Safety and Health. The agreement aims to establish mutual cooperation between the Council and Advanced Health Solutions Company in the field of safety and occupational health The agreement focuses on enhancing efficiency in occupational health and the work environment at the national level, providing a safe and attractive work environment that contributes to the quality of life for workers. The collaboration will involve the establishment of a national platform for occupational health services, with the identity of the NCOSH, through which Advanced Health Solutions Company will provide comprehensive services in the field of occupational health. Furthermore, the agreement contributes to promoting and establishing the highest safety standards to preserve lives and properties. It aligns with Vision 2030’s goal and the Council's strategy to achieve a safe work environment and raise the level of compliance with safety and occupational health at the national level.
Posted on 05 May 2024
Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority Agreement
The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health has signed an agreement with the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority for a "Joint Cooperation in the Field of Occupational Safety and Health" during the sixth Saudi Global Conference for Occupational Safety and Health 2024. The agreement aims to enhance collaboration between the Council and the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority, with the former responsible for developing the field of occupational safety and health and the latter governing it at the national level. Focusing on defining and coordinating roles and responsibilities among relevant entities, the agreement also entails monitoring the implementation of the national occupational safety and health policy. The agreement includes cooperation between the two parties in exchanging expertise and transferring knowledge in technical development, providing best practices in OSH, benefiting from the programs and initiatives carried out by the Council, and promoting awareness in the field of Occupational Safety and Health.
Posted on 05 May 2024
Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON) Agreement
The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health has signed a MoU with the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON) for a "Joint Cooperation in the Field of Occupational Health and Safety" during the Sixth Saudi Global Conference for Occupational Safety and Health 2024. This memorandum aims to enhance cooperation in the respective areas of expertise of both parties, establish a general framework for joint activities and tasks, and develop the institutional capacities of both parties for mutual benefit. The agreement aligns with the role of the Council and the participation of (MODON) in promoting and establishing the highest safety standards to safeguard lives and properties. It is based on the Saudi Vision 2030’s goals and the Council's strategy to create a safe working environment. It aims to raise the level of compliance with occupational health and safety at the national level, preserve human and material resources, national savings, and reduce work-related accidents, injuries, and occupational diseases, thus contributing to the creation of a vibrant society that provides a healthy life for everyone.
Posted on 05 May 2024
