The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has announced a new framework that will introduce mandatory occupational fitness assessments and non-communicable disease (NCD) screenings for employees across the Kingdom through a phased implementation plan.
According to a recently issued guide, the new regulations aim to strengthen workplace health and safety by establishing a unified system for occupational fitness evaluations and NCD screenings.
Three-Phase Implementation
The rollout will take place in three phases before being fully implemented across all professions and economic sectors in Saudi Arabia.
Phase One will require mandatory non-communicable disease screenings for employees before they begin work. Employers must conduct the required screenings and upload the results to the approved electronic system within the first six months after the regulations come into effect.
Phase Two will begin after the completion of the first phase and continue for 12 months. During this period, health screenings will gradually expand to existing employees, with priority given to high-risk companies and establishments. The phase will also include integrating all establishments into the approved electronic system.
Phase Three will see the full implementation of the regulations across all companies, government entities, and non-profit organizations operating in various sectors throughout the Kingdom.
Coverage Across All Employment Types
The regulations will apply regardless of the type of employment contract or work arrangement. This includes permanent employees, temporary and seasonal workers, trainees, persons with disabilities, and remote workers.
Occupational Fitness Requirements
Under the new guide, employees who do not meet the prescribed occupational fitness requirements will not be allowed to continue working in their current profession.
In such cases, employers will be required to take appropriate measures, including changing the employee’s profession where necessary. Employees may also undergo additional examinations to demonstrate that they are capable of performing the required duties.
Pre-Employment Approval Required
Job candidates completing recruitment and onboarding procedures will not be allowed to start work until their examination results have been issued and approved by a physician specializing in occupational medicine.
Occupational fitness examinations will also be carried out during employment in specific situations, including occupational injuries or diseases, changes in profession or work environment, and periodic assessments required based on the nature of the job.
Objective of the New Guide
The ministry said the guide is designed to standardize occupational fitness assessment procedures, ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, and enhance the protection of workers’ health and occupational safety through a unified national system for occupational fitness assessments and non-communicable disease screenings.