New safety rules launched for high-risk jobs

At a glance

• Saudi Arabia has issued strict new regulations for high-risk occupations, creating a licensing and accreditation framework for individuals and organisations.
• The framework includes two qualification pathways: a professional track and a practitioner track for hazardous roles.
• Establishments providing occupational safety and health services, such as consulting firms and training centres, must meet detailed licensing requirements.
• Accreditation will only be granted after compliance with technical and regulatory standards outlined in the new rules.
• Governance protocols have been introduced to ensure adherence to national safety standards.

Saudi Arabia's Minister of Human Resources and Social Development has introduced strict new regulations governing high-risk occupations, establishing a comprehensive licensing and accreditation framework for both individuals and organisations involved in occupational safety and health.

The new regulation introduces two distinct qualification pathways - a professional track and a practitioner track - for individuals working in hazardous occupations. It sets out detailed requirements for licensing establishments that provide occupational safety and health services, including consulting firms, training centres, and e-learning providers.

Under the framework, specific technical and regulatory standards must be met before accreditation is granted. The regulation outlines qualification requirements for practitioners and establishes governance protocols to ensure compliance with national safety standards.