Saudi Arabia has implemented stringent new occupational health and safety regulations, making medical fitness tests compulsory for all employees in the public, private, and government sectors. The rules, established by the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health, require workers to pass a medical examination before starting a new job, after a long sick leave, or upon promotion. The objective is to reduce workplace injuries and non-communicable diseases while ensuring employees are physically capable of performing their duties.
The mandatory medical check-up includes a general clinical examination, vision and hearing tests, and specific laboratory investigations as determined by health authorities. The regulations apply broadly, including to women workers in relevant fields and employees returning after extended absence or those suspected of substance abuse. A key provision states that once an employee passes the initial medical fitness test for a contract with an institution, they are generally exempt from repeat examinations unless a specific medical reason arises.
Following the examination, an approved health authority provides a final medical fitness report to the employer, which is binding. This report determines the employee's eligibility to join or continue in their role and includes a statement on their health status and capacity to perform the assigned job. The initiative aims to create comprehensive health databases, improve compliance with local and international labor standards, and ultimately foster a healthier, more productive national workforce.
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicing elit. Velit omnis animi et iure laudantium vitae, praesentium optio, sapiente distinctio illo?