RIYADH : In response to false reports, Saudi Arabia’s government has affirmed that the Kingdom has one of the world’s lowest rates of workplace fatalities, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Friday.
The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health issued a statement, carried by the SPA, highlighting that work-related fatalities stand at 1.12 per 100,000 workers.
“The International Labour Organization acknowledges this progress, highlighting … that Saudi Arabia has made significant advancements in improving occupational safety and health and reducing workplace accidents at the national level,” the council stated.
“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 council was created primarily to integrate national policies and global best practices for occupational safety and health in the workplace.
On the legislative side, Saudi Arabia’s labor laws have mandated that employers provide comprehensive health insurance including essential preventive, therapeutic and healthcare services for all employees, the council stated.
The statement added: “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.”
