RIYADH — The National Council for Occupational Safety and Health in Saudi Arabia has strongly refuted claims circulating in various media suggesting a rise in worker fatalities due to poor working conditions. In a statement issued on Friday, the council confirmed that Saudi Arabia's work-related fatality rate stands at 1.12 per 100,000 workers, placing the Kingdom among countries with the lowest rates of work-related deaths globally. This progress has been recognized by the International Labour Organization (ILO), which, on its official website, commends Saudi Arabia's significant advancements in occupational safety and health. Other reputable organizations, including the International Institute of Risk and Safety Management and the British Safety Council, have echoed these acknowledgments. The council emphasized that worker safety and well-being are fundamental priorities in Saudi regulations. Initiatives under the Saudi Vision 2030 framework, notably the National Strategic Program for Occupational Safety and Health, prioritize human welfare in development projects. Launched in 2017, this program aims to enhance workplace safety standards, protocols, and legislation. Saudi labour laws also require employers to provide comprehensive health insurance covering preventive, therapeutic, and healthcare services. Additionally, regulations limit outdoor work during peak summer hours to mitigate health risks and ensure working hours comply with international standards, aligning with relevant ILO agreements. The council urged media outlets and the public to rely on verified sources for information, stressing the importance of credibility in reporting.
