UAE Employers Must Follow 12 Workplace Safety Duties

The United Arab Emirates has reminded employers of 12 legal responsibilities to prevent workplace accidents and protect employee health, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) said. The rules apply across the country and place safety accountability on employers.

Under UAE labour law, companies must also cover full medical expenses if a worker is injured on duty or develops an occupational illness. If the worker cannot resume work, the employer must pay half wages until recovery, permanent disability, or death.

What Changed in UAE Workplace Safety Enforcement

MoHRE also introduced the Smart Safety Tracker at GITEX Global. The AI-powered system analyses inspection data and field images to detect safety violations such as missing protective equipment or unsafe practices.

Companies that fail to comply with safety standards may face penalties and fines under existing regulations.

The 12 Legal Duties Employers Must Follow

MoHRE outlined the following mandatory obligations:

1. Provide personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect workers from injuries, machinery risks, fire hazards and occupational diseases.
2. Establish clear safety instructions in languages understood by workers.
3. Install warning signs in hazardous areas.
4. Inform employees of occupational risks before they begin work.
5. Appoint a qualified person to supervise first aid.
6. Equip workplaces with adequate first-aid kits.
7. Provide fire prevention systems and appropriate firefighting equipment.
8. Ensure ongoing compliance with health and safety standards.
9. Take practical measures to prevent or reduce workplace health hazards.
10. Protect workers from risks related to falls, hazardous materials, compressed gases and electricity.
11. Display machinery instructions and guidance signs in languages workers understand.
12. Provide licensed worker accommodation or offer a housing allowance, and bear the full cost of medical care as required by law.

The ministry stated that prevention remains central to workplace regulation, alongside compensation safeguards for employees.