ABU DHABI, The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has joined the world in celebrating World Day for Safety and Health at Work, which is observed on April 28 every year to promote the concept of occupational health and safety at workplaces worldwide.
Recognising the importance of occupational health and safety, the UAE has issued several laws to preserve the rights of employees and workers, safeguard their health and safety at work, and enhancing the state’s record of achievements in guaranteeing workers’ rights, taking into account their safety and occupational health.
The UAE’s non-stop efforts in this respect have resulted in promoting the country’s sustainable development progress and strengthening its global competitiveness.
With that in mind, the ministry spares no effort to help concerned authorities implement the National Standard for Occupational Safety and Health Management System (OSHMS), in accordance with an integrated strategy and guiding rules.
From applying the best international practices in the field of health and safety for both customers and employees, to using the latest technologies related to the work environment, and providing necessary training for workers in all its departments, the ministry strives to create a healthy and safe work environment.
MoHAP also provides a help line for psychological counselling for employees, handled by a number of specialists and psychological consultants, to support the mental health of employees and enhance their sense of safety. The ministry also conducts periodic reviews to assess risks related to health and safety, and measures the implementation of standards and conditions.
It also attaches utmost attention to the health and safety of the workplace and is coordinating with authorities to develop a modern system for reporting, documenting and analysing work accidents, injuries and occupational diseases, and is preparing periodic reports on them at the national level.
It has also opened new channels of communication with authorities to improve the physical and psychological health of workers to ensure their happiness at work in cooperation with relevant Arab and international organisations.
Occupational health and safety represents a moral, civil and economic commitment in the UAE, which was the reason why the government has ratified several major ILO agreements related to workers’ rights, and adopted many laws to protect workers, including special laws on employment, wages, housing, and occupational health and safety.
Source: Emirates News Agency