The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation in the United Arab Emirates has recently released a resolution outlining the channels for reporting work-related illnesses and injuries, as well as the responsibilities of employers in such cases. The resolution aims to improve the occupational health and safety system in the private sector by providing a database for recording workplace accidents and illnesses, allowing for the settlement of related issues and identification of risks. By improving the psychological stability of employees and ensuring a safe work environment, productivity and efficiency can be increased.
Employers are required to establish a system for tracking work-related illnesses and injuries, as well as any preventive measures and rehabilitation programs implemented for employees involved in hazardous activities. They must also compile a list of workers and establish procedures for routine health examinations, reporting incidents within the establishment, and investigating occurrences of occupational diseases and injuries. In addition, the resolution stipulates that establishments must develop a unique mechanism for tracking these illnesses and injuries and define all activities that pose a threat to the health and safety of workers.
If a worker sustains a partial disability as a result of an occupational illness or injury, they will be compensated with a portion of the value of permanent complete disability, as determined by a specialized medical committee. If the work injury or illness results in the worker’s death, the compensation will be paid to their legal heirs. Employers are also required to provide proof of the worker’s period of employment in the establishment and maintain a record of workers exposed to occupational hazards for at least five years after the end of their service.
There are several channels available for individuals to report work-related illnesses and injuries. These include calling the call center, visiting businessmen service centers, or using the ministry’s smart applications. The employer is responsible for inputting information about the company, the injured employee, the date and severity of the injury, a brief account of the accident’s circumstances, and first aid and treatment protocols.
– An employer is obligated to treat and compensate an injured worker for any work-related illness or injury. The value of the work injury compensation is calculated based on the worker’s most recent basic salary. The worker receives compensation after the release of the medical report indicating the percentage of impairment within a maximum of 10 days.
– If the work injury or illness results in the worker’s death, the compensation is paid to his or her legal heirs in accordance with the country’s laws, or in accordance with what the person decides before passing away.
– If a worker sustains a partial disability as a result of an occupational illness, or injury, the worker will be compensated with a portion of the value of permanent complete disability, in accordance with the percentages outlined in the Cabinet Resolution No. 33 of 2022.
– A specialised medical committee will decide whether there is a complete or partial disability in both circumstances, and the amount of compensation due to the worker in the event of a permanent complete disability is equal to the amount due in the event of death. For example, if the worker’s basic salary was AED1,000 and the partial disability percentage was 25 percent, the compensation would be as follows: 25 percent of partial disability multiplied by the basic wage for 24 months results in AED6,000.
– Before the injured or ill worker receives all benefits, the employer shall not end the working relationship and cancel the contract.
– Additionally, all rights will be safeguarded in accordance with the report provided by the relevant committee if the employee decides to terminate the employment agreement prior to the release of the medical report.
