Sharjah24: The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has joined the world in celebrating the World Day for Safety and Health at Work, which is observed on April 28 of 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 legislation and laws to preserve the rights of employees and workers, safeguard their health and safety at work, and enhance the state’s track 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 of 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 helpline 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 measure the implementation of standards and conditions.

It also attaches utmost attention to the health and safety of the workplace and is therefore coordinating with concerned authorities to develop a modern system for reporting, documenting and analyzing work accidents, injuries and occupational diseases, and is accordingly preparing periodic reports on them at the national level. 

It has also opened new channels of communication with concerned authorities to enhance the physical or psychological health of workers in the establishments to ensure their happiness at work in cooperation with relevant Arab and international organizations.

Occupational health and safety represents a moral, civil and economic commitment in the UAE, which was the reason why it has ratified several major ILO agreements related to workers' rights, and adopted many laws to protect them, including special laws on employment, wages, housing, and occupational health and safety.